Winter Road Trips: Discovering Canada’s Most Scenic Winter Views
Winter in Canada is a season of breathtaking beauty, with snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and majestic mountains creating a picturesque backdrop for adventure. While summer may be the more traditional time for road trips, winter offers a unique opportunity to experience Canada’s stunning scenery in a whole new light. Whether you’re winding through the Rockies, exploring the coastal highways, or discovering hidden gems in the countryside, these winter road trips will take you on a journey through some of the most scenic views Canada has to offer. Here’s your guide to the best winter road trips in Canada.
- Icefields Parkway, Alberta
The Icefields Parkway, stretching 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper, is often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the world. In the winter, this iconic route is transformed into a snow-covered wonderland, offering stunning views of the Canadian Rockies, frozen waterfalls, and expansive glaciers.
Highlights: The road passes through two national parks—Banff and Jasper—providing endless opportunities for breathtaking views and winter activities. Don’t miss stops at Peyto Lake, known for its wolf-shaped outline, and the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided ice walk or snowcoach tour onto the Athabasca Glacier.
Tips for the Drive: Winter conditions can be challenging on the Icefields Parkway, so be sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires and that you carry emergency supplies. Check road conditions before you go, and take your time to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
- Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia
The Sea-to-Sky Highway, or Highway 99, is a stunning coastal route that runs from Vancouver to Whistler. This 120-kilometer (75-mile) drive offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, towering mountains, and dense forests, all blanketed in snow during the winter months.
Highlights: Along the way, stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park to see the frozen waterfalls or visit the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The drive culminates in the charming alpine village of Whistler, where you can enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski activities.
Tips for the Drive: Winter driving conditions can be unpredictable along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, so ensure your vehicle is prepared with snow tires and that you check the weather forecast before setting out. Take advantage of the many scenic pullouts along the highway to capture the stunning vistas.
- Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
The Cabot Trail, located on Cape Breton Island, is one of Canada’s most famous scenic drives. While it’s a popular destination in the summer and fall, the Cabot Trail’s winter beauty is equally enchanting. This 298-kilometer (185-mile) loop offers dramatic coastal views, snow-covered cliffs, and the rugged beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands.
Highlights: Explore the scenic lookouts in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can spot wildlife like moose and bald eagles. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit small fishing villages like Chéticamp and Ingonish, where you can experience the local culture and enjoy fresh seafood.
Tips for the Drive: The Cabot Trail can be windy and icy in the winter, so make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving. Some sections of the trail may be closed due to snow, so plan your route accordingly and check road conditions before your trip.
- Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec
The Gaspé Peninsula, located in eastern Quebec, offers a stunning winter road trip experience with its rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and snow-covered landscapes. The 885-kilometer (550-mile) loop around the peninsula takes you through some of the most scenic regions in Quebec.
Highlights: Visit the iconic Percé Rock, which is particularly striking when surrounded by ice and snow. Explore Forillon National Park, where you can hike along snowy trails or go ice fishing. The charming town of Gaspé offers a warm welcome with its cozy cafes and local shops.
Tips for the Drive: The Gaspé Peninsula can be remote and snow-covered in the winter, so make sure your vehicle is well-prepared for the journey. Pack plenty of warm clothing and supplies, and be ready for changing weather conditions.
- Route 132, Quebec
Route 132, which follows the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River, offers a beautiful winter drive through Quebec’s countryside. This scenic route passes through historic villages, rolling farmlands, and along the banks of the icy St. Lawrence River.
Highlights: Stop in the charming village of Kamouraska, known for its historic homes and stunning river views. Continue along the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, where you can explore ice fishing huts, visit local artisan shops, and take in the tranquil beauty of the frozen river.
Tips for the Drive: Winter driving along Route 132 is generally manageable, but always check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting out. Take your time to explore the small towns and enjoy the local culture along the way.
- Viking Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador
The Viking Trail, which runs along the western coast of Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula, offers a dramatic winter road trip through rugged landscapes and historic sites. This 489-kilometer (304-mile) route takes you through some of the most remote and stunning regions of Newfoundland.
Highlights: Visit Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fjords, cliffs, and snow-covered peaks. Explore the historic Norse settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows, where you can learn about the Viking explorers who once called this region home.
Tips for the Drive: The Viking Trail can be challenging in winter, with snow and ice common along the route. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions and consider timing your trip to coincide with the Northern Lights, which are often visible in this region.
- Trans-Canada Highway through the Rockies
Driving the Trans-Canada Highway through the Rocky Mountains is an unforgettable winter road trip that offers some of the most iconic views in Canada. This stretch of the highway takes you through the heart of the Rockies, passing through Banff, Lake Louise, and Yoho National Park.
Highlights: The frozen beauty of Lake Louise is a must-see, where you can skate on the lake or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride along its shores. The town of Banff offers a charming stop with its hot springs, cozy restaurants, and boutique shops. Don’t miss the Spiral Tunnels in Yoho National Park, an engineering marvel set against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
Tips for the Drive: Winter driving through the Rockies requires caution, as conditions can be snowy and icy. Be sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires, and carry emergency supplies in case of delays. Take advantage of the many scenic pullouts to safely enjoy the views.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s winter landscapes offer a unique and breathtaking backdrop for road trips, with snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and charming villages creating a picture-perfect setting. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastlines of the Cabot Trail, winding through the Rockies on the Trans-Canada Highway, or taking in the serene beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula, these winter road trips will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. As you set out on your winter adventure, don’t forget to pack your Eleven Elfs vests and coats. Their superior warmth and stylish designs will keep you cozy and chic as you discover the most scenic views Canada has to offer. Happy travels!