The 13 Most Underrated Places To Visit In Canada In 2017

Canada is a big country — the second largest in the world, in fact. So it’s granted that there are plenty of incredible places, towns and national parks across the country that fly under the radar. Here are 13 underrated places in Canada that deserve a visit in 2017.

1. Tadoussac

Natural Feature

Located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Saguenay Rivers in Quebec, Tadoussac has a long history. It was established in 1600, as it was the site of Canada’s first trading post. Today, it’s actually one of the best places for whale watching in Canada. This is thanks to the abundance of krill found in its two rivers. Tadoussac is also home to the picturesque Saguenay Fjord.

2. Canmore

Park, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark, Shop, Sports Center, Post Office, Health Spa, Shopping Mall, Art Gallery

Hidden in the shadows (and just over the border) of Banff National Park, Canmore lies on the banks of the Bow River and is also surrounded by snowy mountains. It’s found 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Calgary in the Canadian Rockies, but is usually overlooked as visitors tend to spend their vacation in either Banff or Jasper. However, Canmore has a lot to offer adventure enthusiasts, including skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding in the winter; and mountain biking, hiking, whitewater rafting and kayaking in the summer.

3. Dawson City

Park

Dawson City is a small town in the Yukon, which was a base for the Klondike Gold Rush in the 1800s. It’s a remote place but visitors will get to see its frontier-style buildings, unique arts and culture community and colorful village. Its northern location in the Yukon also means it’s a viewing place for the Northern Lights, and it remains light for nearly the entire day during the summer months.

4. Whitehorse

Park

Whitehorse may be Canada’s most underrated capital city. The Yukon Territory’s capital is at the junction of the territory’s two main highways: the Alaska and the Klondike. It’s filled with unique heritage buildings and has a well-funded arts community. Whitehorse is also one of the southernmost places where you can see the Northern Lights between August and April, which is a big reason to visit in 2017.

5. Nahanni National Park

Park

Located in the Northwest Territories, Nahanni National Park Reserve is definitely a must-see Canadian national park. It’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site and kayaking along the South Nahanni River in summer is a must for experienced kayakers. National Geographicsays: “For experienced paddlers, the South Nahanni is what Everest is to mountaineers—remote, breathtaking, and mystical”. Another highlight is Virginia Falls, which is twice the height of Niagara Falls.