Top 5 Canadian landscapes that should be on your travel wish list

The Canadian landscapes you must see

1. Where turquoise water meets the peaks

2. Dramatic mountain views

3. The wilderness that feels bigger than the map

4. Where the water takes centre stage

5. Canada's landscape in four seasons

6. Why the journey changes the view

Where turquoise water meets the peaks 

The colour comes first. Lake Louise is known for its striking turquoise water, framed by the Canadian Rockies and the Victoria Glacier. Within World Heritage-listed Banff National Park, the lake brings together the elements that define this region: clear water, high peaks and a landscape that feels vast even from the shore.  
 
Scenic guests stay close to the view at Fairmont Château Lake Louise, surrounded by mountain peaks, glacier scenery and the lake itself, and the surrounding Rockies make the journey to Lake Louise part of the experience, too.  
 
Experience this on the Majestic Rockies itinerary and Icons of Western Canada & Alaskan Cruise itinerary.

Dramatic mountain views

Established in 1885, Banff National Park was Canada’s first national park. Its 6,641 square kilometres encompass emerald lakes, mountain scenery and wilderness, creating a compelling contrast between the polished alpine town of Banff and the large-scale natural surroundings beyond it. 

This is a landscape best experienced from more than one perspective. All-inclusive Scenic Freechoice excursions in Banff include a helicopter flightseeing above the Three Sisters Peaks, with views across jagged mountains and turquoise lakes. The destination also offers a wildlife-spotting experience at dusk, adding another layer to a day spent among the Rockies.  

You can also witness Banff National Park as you travel on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies. As you experience train travel on this remarkable rail journey, the landscapes are still a highlight through the glass-domed GoldLeaf carriages. 

Experience this on the Majestic Rockies itinerary and Icons of Western Canada & Alaskan Cruise itinerary.

The wilderness that feels bigger than the map

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering 11,000 square kilometres. Its appeal lies in that sense of space: rivers, mountain passes, lakes and forested valleys extend well beyond a single lookout or photograph. 

Scenic’s Canadian smaller group escorted tours  introduce Jasper through all-inclusive experiences that follow the terrain. You may take to the Athabasca River by raft, cruise Maligne Lake towards Spirit Island or explore Maligne Canyon during a drive through Jasper’s lake district. Each perspective shifts the focus, from rushing water to still lake reflections and the geological detail of the canyon. 

Experience this on the Majestic Rockies itinerary and Icons of Western Canada & Alaskan Cruise itinerary.

Where the water takes centre stage 

Niagara Falls is defined by movement and sound from more than a million bathtubs’ worth of water plunging over the falls every second, sending icy mist hundreds of metres into the air. It is a powerful natural spectacle that feels dramatically different when viewed from the waterline rather than from afar. 

On a Scenic Canada land journey, guests can join an included cruise to the base of the falls, then journey below and behind them. These changing viewpoints turn a famous landmark into a closer encounter with the force, scale, and atmosphere of the water. 

Experience this on the Eastern Canada & USA Explorer itinerary. 

Canada's landscapes in four seasons 

Canada is transformed by the season you choose to visit, creating distinct ways to experience its iconic landscapes. Spring brings fresh colours to mountain valleys and a renewed energy to cities and countryside, while summer offers long days for taking in the Canadian Rockies, glacier-fed lakes and national parks. 

In autumn, parts of Eastern Canada become a vivid landscape of red, orange and gold foliage, adding another dimension to historic cities, waterways and coastal scenery. Then transition to the crispy white charm of winter with festive city streets, snowy scenery and the possibility of celebrating a true White Christmas, making it a favourite time to visit for returning guests. 

Experience these on the Majestic Rockies, Highlights of the Rockies, Canada & USA Explorer: Autumn Foliage of the East Coast and Christmas in the Rockies itineraries. 

Why it makes a difference to explore Canada with Scenic 

Canada’s landscapes are even more rewarding when you have time to appreciate their changing perspectives, stories and sense of scale through thoughtfully curated experiences. Scenic land journeys are fully escorted in smaller groups of no more than 36 guests, allowing for a relaxed pace and closer connection with each destination.

Unrivalled inclusions elevate your experience, from Scenic Special Stays at remarkable hotels and GoldLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer to expert Tour Directors, knowledgeable local guides, and a choice of included Scenic Freechoice experiences and dining complimented with inspiring Scenic Enrich events. More than beautiful photographs for your travel album, it is a journey that creates stories for life long after you return home.