Northern Explorers shares inspiring stories, trip ideas, practical tips and memorable adventures for all budgets, timeframes, ages and abilities.
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...
Alberta is home to some of the most famous national parks in the world. These parks offer opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, paddling, camping and connecting with nature. In addition, you’ll find interactive programming and educational opportunities through Parks Canada, as well as a...
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...
You don’t have to carry a tent dozens of kilometres into the backcountry to enjoy the great outdoors. Car camping, also called front-country camping, is fun, too! It can be more accessible, great for families, and allows you to bring more comfort items from home. Photo by Miranda Smit...
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...
The Piney Point Trail is in Beauvais Lake Provincial Park, southwest of Pincher Creek, Alberta. Beauvais Lake Provincial Park is accessible year-round and offers outdoor activities in the winter and shoulder seasons. View from the Piney Point Trail, Beauvais Provincial Park The Piney...
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...
The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail traverses the forests and beaches of Vancouver Island’s southwestern coast. Its trail takes you through massive cedar groves, across rocky coastal areas, sandy beaches, and (almost inevitably) through sucking mud. Over three to five epic days, you’ll...