Canada is the second largest country in the world and a perfect travel destination if you’re a fan of the great outdoors. A land of vast wilderness, rocky peaks, stretches of endless forests and crystal clear lakes and falls, it’s a place many say is impossible not to like. Its freshwater resources in particular are the envy of the world and if you visit you would be foolish not to add a few to your must see list. As a nature lover and a Canadian native, here is my choice for five of the best water destinations in my country:

The Reversing Falls, NB

Photo

This watery phenomenon in the Bay of Fundy would be more aptly named the Reversing Rapids, but it makes for noteworthy spectacle just the same. The narrow Gorge of the St. John’s river, combined with the massive rise and fall of tides, creates this patch of rapids which is only calm for 20 minutes a day as the tides change. But if you really want the full experience, hop on a Jet Boat tour and get soaked riding over the falls.

Iceberg Alley, NL

Photo

Remember that scene in Titanic where the boat was approaching that massive iceberg? Ever wonder what it would be like to see something that massive and imposing floating along side you? Well, you can experience exactly that on a trip through iceberg alley off the Coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. As icebergs break off of Greenland they drift downward past the island of NL creating an awe inspiring water destination. Boat trip riders get to see and photograph these floating ice mountains along with a ton of other sea wildlife.

Niagara Falls, ON

Photo

So if you take the trip to Niagara Falls make sure you also bring your passport. It’s totally worth a hop over the border to see the outstanding view from the Canadian side. The falls themselves are actually separated into to distinct sections, the American Falls and the Horseshoe falls which are almost entirely on the Canadian side. The Horseshoe Falls, are double the size of their little brother and have an additional 70 or so foot drop. Also on the Canadian side are the Whirlpool Aero Car and the Journey Behind the Falls, which take you over and behind the falls respectively. Make sure to see the falls during the day and at night, because with the lights on it’s a totally different experience.

Magpie River, QB

Photo

A real white water adventure begins with being airlifted into the river and that’s exactly what happens in the Magpie when you take on this top-rated rafting destination. The class III-V rapids are a guaranteed shot of adrenaline, while the breathtaking scenery is a dose of serenity. Don’t get too relaxed though, as somewhere during your five day expedition, your air lift will be back to carry you safely over the 80-foot drop of the Magpie River Falls.

Johnstone Strait, BC

Photo

If you are totally over traditional whale watches, head to British Columbia, grab a kayak and get ready for something a little more up close and personal. The serene waters between the province of BC and the Island of Vancouver are a frequent summer home for Killer Whales. The migration makes this little stretch of water the best place in the world to observe Orcas in their natural environment. For whale watching with an adventure twist there’s nothing better than this.

So if visiting this  beautiful country be sure to add a few of these places to your list.

Leslie West is a frequent traveler, a Canada aficionado and a writer for a Canadian Pardons site.

You might also enjoy these...