Northern Explorers is an advocate of family travel and adventure. Read our stories and find tips for family-friendly destinations, attractions and trip ideas.
A 35-minute drive east of Edmonton takes you to the rolling hills, aspen forests, rich wetlands, pretty lakes and starry skies of Elk Island National Park. It is an ‘island’ of natural wonders and a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, surrounded by agriculture. This wild inland island is...
Salt Spring Island is a special place. It is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, rich community and cultural experiences, and charming local spots for eating, shopping and playing. Beautiful beaches, protected forests, clear lakes, farms and a bustling village make travelling to Salt...
Kootenay Lake from Queens Bay Tucked between the Selkirk and Purcell Mountain ranges, Kootenay Lake in British Columbia is ideal for relaxing and nature-focused family spring break. From natural hot springs to laid-back and historic lakeside towns to rocky beaches, waterfall hikes and...
The Kaslo River Trail winds along the north and south shores of the Kaslo River, connected by two bright red, enchanting covered bridges, to make it a family-friendly 3.6 km loop. About halfway, you’ll find magical “Koots” sculptures playing hide-and-seek among the moss-covered boulders...
Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Alberta’s five national parks, located in the southwest corner of the province. It offers pristine lakes, sweeping mountain vistas, waterfalls, hiking trails, campgrounds, the famous Red Rock Canyon, the historic Prince of Wales Hotel, and the quaint...
As you turn the corner and the road starts to descend into the valley, the landscape around you completely transforms from rolling rangelands to otherworldly badlands. Dinosaur Provincial Park has the best and most unique landscape and geological features of the Canadian Badlands, crammed...
Cypress Hills Provincial Park is a unique destination and Canada’s only ‘interprovincial park.’ It’s a collaboration between Alberta Parks, Saskatchewan Parks, and Parks Canada, with the Fort Walsh National Historic Site on the Saskatchewan side. The Alberta side features towering hills...
Kimberley Alpine Resort is one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in the Canadian Rockies. It ticks off all the boxes for a family ski trip, including varied terrain, special kid’s trails, ski and snowboard programs, slope-side accommodation, restaurants and all the amenities you...
Chester Lake: A go-to snowshoe (or hike) in Kananaskis Country, Alberta The Chester Lake Trail in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park stands out as a go-to hike in Kananaskis, especially in the winter. The trail gives the best samplings of scenery in the Canadian Rockies, including Christmas...
In the heart of the East Kootenay’s, Cranbrook, BC, makes a great home base for outdoor winter activities. The winters are mild here, and the town is accessible by a small international airport and has a range of accommodation options suitable for every budget. It’s also located on the...