Cross-Canada

Cross-Canada Adventure

After living in the town of Golden for nearly six months, I mustered the courage to resign from my job before the peak tourist season arrived. Thus began a roughly three-week journey across Canada, from the west coast in Victoria and Vancouver, through Calgary, Toronto, Québec, and Montréal, all the way to St. John’s, Newfoundland, on the country’s easternmost edge.

Whale Watching in Victoria

Victoria is one of North America’s best whale-watching destinations, with orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and minke whales frequently spotted between April and October. Located at the meeting point of the Georgia Strait and the Juan de Fuca Strait, the region boasts a rich marine ecosystem. Visitors can board various whale-watching vessels, from comfortable yachts to high-speed boats, to witness the breathtaking sight of whales breaching the ocean’s surface. Seals, sea lions, and bald eagles can also be seen. Many tours include a marine biologist who provides insightful explanations about the local marine life. The Victoria Harbor area is dotted with seafood restaurants and charming cafés, making it an ideal destination for exploring both nature and urban charm.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a city where stunning natural landscapes blend seamlessly with modern urban life in Canada. Surrounded by mountains and ocean, it offers something for every traveler. Stanley Park features lush forests and coastal trails, preserving a pristine ecological environment where visitors can spot various wildlife, including migratory birds and even coyotes. In summer, the clothing-optional beach near the University of British Columbia is a great place to relax. The city’s diverse population, particularly its large Asian community, makes it a fantastic place to enjoy international cuisine, with Indian food being a particular highlight.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is famous for its turquoise glacial waters, framed by towering peaks, making it one of the most iconic destinations in the Canadian Rockies. In summer, visitors can canoe on the lake or hike the surrounding trails for breathtaking views of the lake and glaciers. In winter, the frozen lake transforms into a skating and ice-walking paradise, with a world-class ski resort nearby. The Fairmont Château Lake Louise, perched along the shoreline, adds a touch of European grandeur. The lake’s striking blue-green color results from glacial meltwater carrying fine rock particles, making it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Banff

Banff serves as the heart of tourism in the Canadian Rockies, known for its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and rejuvenating hot springs. A gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The nearby Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are must-visit spots, offering breathtaking scenery in every season. Banff is also a haven for wildlife, with chances to encounter elk, moose, and even grizzly bears. Whether visiting in summer for hiking or in winter for skiing, Banff is a destination worth exploring year-round.

Calgary

Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, is often called “Cowtown” due to its deep-rooted cowboy culture. Every July, the city hosts the Calgary Stampede, a world-famous rodeo and exhibition featuring thrilling events and performances. The Calgary Tower provides a 360-degree view of the city skyline and the Canadian Rockies. During the peak summer tourist season, accommodations in Banff and Lake Louise can be scarce, making Calgary a convenient base for exploring the Rockies.

Toronto’s Tommy Thompson Park

Tommy Thompson Park, located in downtown Toronto, is a natural conservation area featuring wetlands and stunning lakefront views. Originally created as a man-made peninsula, the area has been transformed into an ecological reserve, attracting over 300 bird species. Visitors can bike or hike along the scenic trails while admiring the vast expanse of Lake Ontario. A peaceful escape from the bustling city, the park is a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, consisting of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to experience the immense power of the falls up close, feeling the mist and roar of the cascading water. In winter, parts of the falls freeze over, creating an otherworldly ice sculpture landscape. The surrounding area also offers numerous attractions, including observation towers, casinos, and amusement parks.

Montréal’s Catholic Heritage

Montréal is rich in Catholic history and architecture, home to some of Canada’s most stunning churches. The Saint Joseph’s Oratory is the largest church in the country, known for its grand dome and exquisite stained-glass windows. Meanwhile, Notre-Dame Basilica is renowned for its breathtaking Gothic architecture and opulent interior. In Old Montréal, many historic monasteries and churches stand as reminders of the city’s deep-rooted French colonial heritage.

Old Québec City

Old Québec is the only walled city in North America and exudes a strong European charm. The Château Frontenac, perched atop a hill, is the city’s most iconic landmark and one of the most photographed hotels in the world. The cobblestone streets of Petit-Champlain are lined with quaint shops, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. With its rich history and seasonal beauty, Québec City is a captivating destination year-round.

Birdwatching in St. John’s, Newfoundland

The coastal waters near St. John’s are among the best birdwatching spots in the world, particularly at the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Home to over a million seabirds, including puffins, storm petrels, and kittiwakes, the reserve offers visitors a rare chance to see these birds up close. The best time for birdwatching is from April to September, with some tours also combining whale watching and iceberg viewing. This untouched natural paradise is a must-visit for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.