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Best Things to Do in Fredericton, New Brunswick

August 20, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Fredericton, New Brunswick is one of Canada’s most pleasant and easy-going capital cities. With a population of around 70,000, it’s big enough to have every amenity while avoiding the congestion and problems of many larger centres. It also helps to have a beautiful setting along the Saint John River, also known as the Wolastoq.

Things to Do in Fredericton — Buildings in the historic Garrison District, Fredericton, New Brunswick. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

The city’s rich history dates back centuries from early Indigenous inhabitants to the fur trade era, French Acadians fleeing the British, United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, playing a role in the Canadian Confederation, and becoming the site of Canada’s first English-speaking university, to name only a few notable episodes.

Part of what makes the city so appealing is that you can walk almost everywhere, with a compact downtown and a vast network of trails. A highlight is the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, a former railway bridge that crosses the wide river. It’s a wonderful link making it possible to enjoy both sides of the river on foot or bicycle without having to deal with traffic.

These are the Best ATV Tours in Whistler

August 13, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Get ready to rev your engines and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Whistler, BC! Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to explore the great outdoors in a fun and unique way, enjoying one of the best ATV tours in Whistler is the perfect blend of excitement and natural beauty. Picture yourself zooming along rugged trails, splashing through mountain streams, and climbing to new heights for panoramic views that will leave you in awe. With a variety of trails suited for all skill levels, these ATV tours in Whistler promise heart-pounding thrills and the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness of British Columbia.

82 of the Best Things To Do in Alberta

August 6, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 171 Comments

drone photography of panther valley alberta canada — Panther Valley, Alberta.

From boreal forests to vast prairies and high mountain peaks, Alberta is an incredible province to explore. Born and raised in Alberta, I certainly feel that I know Alberta better than most. I’ve been to each major city and almost every small town in the province, giving me great insight into the province that I call home.

Although Alberta is one of only two provinces that are landlocked, Alberta is about as diverse as it gets. From looking at Dinosaur skeletons in the badlands and hiking some of the tallest mountain peaks in the country to splashing around in North America’s largest indoor waterpark and driving one of the world’s most scenic highways, Alberta is an incredible place to explore.

Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the mountains, or everything in between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of Alberta.

Whale Watching Victoria

July 30, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Welcome to the wild and wondrous whale-watching world in Victoria, BC!

Whale Watching Victoria, Vancouver Island, and Port Renfrew Canada. — Watching Orca whales off the coast of Vancouver Island, Canada.

Imagine yourself aboard a boat, the salty sea breeze tousling your hair, and the anticipation of spotting one of nature’s most majestic creatures building with every passing wave. With its pristine waters and stunning coastal landscapes, Victoria is a whale watcher’s paradise. From the heart-pounding excitement of seeing a humpback breach to the serene beauty of orcas gliding gracefully through the waves, every trip is an unforgettable adventure.

Buckle up (or rather, hold onto your hats) as we dive into the best whale-watching experiences that Victoria, BC, has to offer! Whether you’re a seasoned marine enthusiast or a curious first-timer, get ready for a splash of excitement and awe-inspiring encounters with the giants of the deep.

Exploring Cypress Hills Saskatchewan

July 23, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Cypress Hills Saskatchewan — Sunrise at the Conglomerate Cliffs, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Saskatchewan. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

The Cypress Hills take you by surprise, revealing one of Canada’s most pleasant landscapes with its unique blend of grasslands, forests, and highlands. Unlike the surrounding plains, the upper reaches of the hills remained untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age, leaving some of the highest land in Canada between the Rockies and Labrador.

While in the prairies, the Cypress Hills also have a lot in common with the northern forest and foothills of the Rockies, with a cooler climate and thick stands of white spruce and lodgepole pine. This combination of habitats makes for outstanding wildflower displays with species more common to the foothills growing next to grassland flowers. Of special note is the high number of wild orchids, with showy blooms such as the Calypso Orchid or the delicate Round-leaved Orchid.

Muir Hotel: Luxury Hotels in Halifax that Truly Inspire

July 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

When it comes to luxury hotels in Halifax, Muir is the only option. It’s the only 5-star hotel in the city, which is great because Muir is one of those hotels that adds to your travel experience. From its exceptional, thoughtful design and world-class amenities to its prime location and exquisite dining, staying at Muir is an experience in and of itself.

Muir is one of the best Luxury Hotels in Halifax. — Luxury hotels in Halifax.

We had been wanting to stay at Muir since we first took a tour of the hotel during a travel conference a couple of years ago. Located right on the waterfront in the Queen’s Marque District, you won’t find a better location to stay in the city.

Welcoming guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience, Muir has put so much thought into its design, which is something we wish other hotels would follow. Pulling from the strong Scottish heritage of the province as well as its Maritime history, the hotel’s interior resembles that of a beautiful ship. Although you won’t find the hotel moving along the rugged coast like the ships that inspired it, you will find unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access.

The BEST Things To Do in Banff, Alberta

July 2, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 27 Comments

Banff Tunnel Mountain Hike — Enjoying views from Tunnel Mountain.

Canada’s first national park, which also happens to be one of the first national parks in the world, is also the country’s busiest and most popular. A “fairytale” mountain town surrounded by towering mountain peaks, there are lots of incredible things to do in Banff, Alberta. Living just over an hour away in Calgary, we’ve been to Banff well over 100 times and never get tired of visiting this beautiful slice of alpine paradise.

Attracting approximately 3-4 million visitors each and every year, it’s no secret that this is a bustling tourist town. But that’s okay. With that comes a variety of hotels, activities, bars, restaurants, and, of course, plenty of souvenir shops as well. If you’re looking for things to do in Banff, you’re in the right place.

25 of the Best Things To Do in Winnipeg

June 25, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 11 Comments

Things to Do in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Located almost perfectly in the middle of Canada and home to many world-class attractions, there are lots of fun things to do in Winnipeg.

Back in 2015, we lived in Winnipeg for six months. This was such a great way to truly explore the city and its surroundings, and it made us fall in love with the city. Winnipeg has a thriving culture, some of the coolest attractions in the country, lots of natural beauty, and loads of delicious dining options.

Some of its star attractions include the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Forks Market, the Assiniboine Park Zoo, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and the Winnipeg Jets. There are also lots of things to do around Winnipeg, such as relaxing on one of the top lake beaches in North America or learning about Canada’s history at the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site.

Whether you’re a local or someone looking to visit the city, this Winnipeg travel guide will help you discover the best things to do in Winnipeg, Manitoba!

The Best Parks for Camping in Lake Superior

June 18, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Neys Provincial Park, Ontario is a great place for camping in Lake Superior. — Beach on Lake Superior, Neys Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

Wanna go camping in Lake Superior?

The north shore of Lake Superior ranks among Canada’s great driving routes. Travelling the Trans Canada Highway between Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie gives us access to a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, wild rivers, waterfalls, canoe routes, history, and hiking trails galore. Many key areas are preserved in parks, including a variety of Ontario Provincial Parks and the beautiful Pukaskwa National Park as well.

If ever a route was tailor-made for camping, this would be it. Park campgrounds allow us to stay in the midst of the best that nature has to offer, where we can look out our tent door next to the beach and watch the sun setting over the world’s largest lake.

These are some of our favourite parks for camping in Superior Lake.

Best Cafes in Montreal with Great Third Wave Coffee

June 11, 2024 By John Bardos Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best cafes in Montreal, make sure you bookmark this page.

These are the best cafes in Montreal.

Montreal is my favourite city in Canada. It has the perfect blend of history, culture, and affordability. There are so many interesting neighbourhoods with amazing restaurants and independent stores. Plus, Montreal’s coffee scene is one of the best in the world.

My wife and I are coffee lovers and spend a lot of time in cafes, so I’m guessing we’ve tried more than 40 of the best-rated cafes in the city.

Unfortunately, many of the commonly recommended cafes online don’t serve quality third-wave coffee. Most ‘best cafes in Montreal” articles share the popular cafes instead of the best cafes. All the cafes I recommend on this list have high-quality third-wave coffee and espresso, which means you can’t go wrong by choosing any of them.

Best Sushi in Ottawa

June 4, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Ottawa is known for many things – Gatineau Park, the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and an array of lively festivals.

This is the best sushi in Ottawa.

But one thing it doesn’t get enough credit for? Incredible sushi restaurants! Indeed, any sushi connoisseur who’s been there can tell you that the capital city brings its A-game when it comes to fresh sushi. We have no doubt that you’ll enjoy the top-notch nigiri, sashimi, and extensive variety of rolls along those picturesque riverbanks – most sourced from the freshest of ingredients, of course.

Whether you’d like to curb your sushi craving through Uber Eats or want to enjoy an exceptional dining experience at an upscale Japanese restaurant, these are the top spots for the best sushi in Ottawa.

Relax and Unwind: Finding the Best Spa in Ottawa for Ultimate Tranquility

May 28, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Looking for the best spa in Ottawa? You’ve come to the right place!

best spa in Ottawa

Whether you’re a local looking for a rejuvenating escape or a visitor seeking a pampering experience or traditional spa treatment, Ottawa boasts a range of top-notch spas that cater to every wellness need. For those experiencing a spa for the first time to those looking for the ideal place to enjoy the ultimate escape, there’s a spa for everyone.

In this travel guide, we’ll explore the city’s finest spas, offering a delightful mix of luxurious treatments and tranquil atmospheres with a goal to help you find the best spa in Ottawa.

Best Massage in Calgary

May 21, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best massage in Calgary, you’ve come to the right place!

Best Massage in Calgary.

We appreciate a good massage. Not one of those light-handed oily massages you can barely feel. We like something firm. A massage that helps loosen those knots and truly stretches those tight muscles. As long as the massage is good, we don’t care if it’s in a small clinic or a fancy spa.

If that sounds like you, keep on reading to learn about the top places to get the best massage in Calgary.

Mexican Restaurants in Calgary

May 14, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Considering we live in Calgary and my wife is from Mexico City, we know a thing or two when it comes to finding the best Mexican restaurants in Calgary.

Tacos at Moose and Poncho.

From street tacos and tortas to ceviche and tostadas, people are always asking us where to find the best Mexican restaurants in Calgary and so we wanted to create a guide to finally answer that question.

So without further ado, these are the 10 best Mexican restaurants in Calgary.

12 of the Best Banff Tours

May 7, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best Banff tours to enjoy on your next trip to the Canadian Rockies, you’ve come to the right place!

Banff Tunnel Mountain Hike is one of the best self-guided Banff Tours.

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, Banff is a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone with a penchant for the extraordinary. As you zip up your jacket and breathe in the crisp mountain air, you’ll quickly discover that Banff isn’t just a destination; it’s a symphony of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring experiences waiting to be explored. From glacier-fed turquoise lakes to towering snow-capped peaks, the best Banff tours promise not just sightseeing, but a journey into the soul-stirring beauty that defines this iconic national park.

So, whether you’re looking to admire turquoise-coloured lakes, admire the stars at night, ride in a big canoe, or journey up the Icefields Parkway, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best tours in Banff.

Best Restaurants in Moncton

April 30, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

When it comes to delicious eats, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best restaurants in Moncton!

Best restaurants in Moncton.

Tucked along the shore of scenic Petitcodiac Bay, Moncton draws heaps of visitors all year round with its riverwalks, arts scene, and vibrant Acadian Festival celebrations. But it’s the incredible restaurant growth over the past decade that has foodies flocking here. From humble food trucks to animated Hibachi spots or more upscale tasting menus, Moncton chefs have no doubt been inspired by the bounty of fresh Atlantic ingredients right at their doorstep.

Neighbourhood bistros housed in restored Victorian mansions, charming gastropubs, and seafood shacks all abound in downtown Moncton. If you’re visiting during those warmer summer months, you’ll often see restaurants spilling out onto sunny patios right on the waterfront!

One of the best things about eating in Moncton is that it’s got one of the most diverse food scenes in New Brunswick. Local chefs are putting a modern spin on traditional Acadian dishes while seamlessly embracing global influences. Whether you crave mouthwatering maritime dishes or wood-fired pizza, this town has an option for all tastebuds. Sushi, French, Indian, Japanese…you name it!

But enough talking. These are the best places to eat in Moncton!

Date Ideas in Montreal

April 23, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for date ideas in Montreal, you’ve come to the right place!

The fall season is a great time for organizing date ideas in Montreal. — Montreal is extra romantic during the Fall.

After all, this city is replete with lush sights, culture, and amazing eats – basically everything you need for an unforgettable first date. Beyond iconic areas like Old Montreal and Mount Royal, this ridiculously charming city is packed full of treasures waiting to be discovered alongside that special someone.

Whether you’re in the mood for a sunset stroll in Mile End or a picnic in the Parc du Portugal, there’s no shortage of romantic things to do in Montreal. Live music beckons from panoramic cocktail bars, delicious food abounds in its intimate restaurants, and the local art scene provides endless inspiration for conversation.

So, let’s check out some ideas for a romantic date in Montreal.

23 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

April 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

Things to Do in Victoria BC

Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: April 21, 2024

When it comes to beautiful Canadian cities, Victoria is definitely high on the list. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. A British settlement since 1843 and named after Queen Victoria, the city is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the beautiful parliament buildings and the world-famous Empress Hotel. The city is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, vibrant First Nations communities who have called this place home long before European settlement, and is widely known as “The Garden City” thanks to its mild weather and almost year-round gardens.

Victoria is also ranked as one of the top 20 cities worldwide for its quality of life and is relatively snow-free in the winter months, something rather unusual for a Canadian city. Another benefit of visiting Victoria is the city’s surroundings, which include a stunning Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountains. It’s also conveniently located near both Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington.

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful laid-back city surrounded by outdoor adventure and nature, Victoria should definitely be on your bucket list. In this Victoria BC Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Victoria while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Top 10 Things to Do in Forillon National Park

April 16, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Looking over Land’s End from atop the Mont-Saint-Alban Trail. Forillon National Park, Quebec. Photo by Robin & Arlene Karpan.

Forillon National Park combines jaw-dropping scenery with exceptional hiking, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and other adventure possibilities. Jutting into the northeast point of Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula, it’s a land of forested highlands and rugged coastlines where soaring cliffs drop into the sea at aptly named Land’s End. Adding to the surprises are reminders of a little-known era of Canadian history.

So whether you’re into history, nature, or a little bit of everything, here is our list of the top 10 things to do in Forillon National Park, Quebec.

Best Restaurants in Brantford

April 9, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Looking for the best restaurants in Brantford? You’ve come to the right place!

Best Restaurants in Brantford

Brantford may seem like just another small city in Ontario but peek below the surface and you’ll be greeted by a bubbling bounty of breathtaking bites that’ll no doubt blow your mind!

From hole-in-the-wall shacks serving up soul-soothing comfort in cozy corners to swanky spots where you can slurp signature cocktails while digging into sharing platters with your friends, this little city has quite a diverse culinary scene.

Options range from local classics to globally inspired dishes. So, whether you’re hankering for a Greek salad, an Indian feast, a Thai-inspired dish or a hearty helping of poutine, Brantford certainly has you covered.

So, let’s check out some of the best restaurants in Brantford. Bon appétit!

Dune 3 Set to Film at the Athabasca Sand Dunes of Saskatchewan

April 1, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 2 Comments

Legendary Pictures’ epic science fiction movie ‘Dune’ will begin shooting parts of Dune 3 in Saskatchewan’s Athabasca sand dunes in mid-2025.

Rendering of the Dune 3 production taking place on the Athabasca Sand Dunes.

While preparation and filming are in progress in 2025, the Athabasca Sand Dunes will be closed to visitors. Those wishing to camp in the area during this time, however, can sign up to be extras in the movie, forgoing modern tents for sleeping within the sand as Fremens do.

“Much of the desert shots in the film, which look like Saudi Arabia at times, will be filmed here in Northern Saskatchewan and we are really excited to feature this incredibly unique natural attraction. They cover about 2000 square kilometres south of Lake Athabasca and are considered the most northern dunes in the world,” said Jodi Holloway, Travel Media Consultant at Tourism Saskatchewan.

Although parts of Dune 1 and 2 were shot in Wadi Rum in southern Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the current war happening nearby in Gaza has forced the production team to find a safer location.

Best Seafood Restaurants in Toronto

March 26, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

If you’re dreaming of fresh catches without having to drive to the coast, then you’ll definitely enjoy this list of the best seafood restaurants in Toronto.

best seafood restaurants in Toronto. — Photo for illustrative purposes only.

Home to a busy harbour that’s continuously delivering incredible aquatic offerings, Toronto has quietly become one of Canada’s hottest seafood spots in recent years. From casual shacks serving up fish and chips straight from the fryer to more refined restaurants overlooking that distinctive Toronto skyline, there’s no shortage of enticing seafood joints around the city.

Whether you’re in the mood for wonderfully boozy oysters, lobster rolls, fish tacos, or Michelin-starred sushi, we’ll guide you through the best seafood in the city. Be sure to bring your appetite – these are some of the best seafood restaurants in Toronto!

These are the Best Water Parks in Ontario

March 19, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Is there a better way to cool off on a hot summer’s day than enjoying one of the best water parks in Ontario? We think not!

These are the Best Water Parks in Ontario

As Canada’s most populated province, there are many awesome water parks in Ontario. These places have everything you need for a weatherproof family vacation: lazy rivers where you can float for hours, huge tube slides, massive wave pools for body surfing, picnic areas and even private cabanas for when you want some respite from the sun. Some of these spots are directly connected to full-fledged amusement parks too – perfect for crafting a day of thrills.

So without further ado, here are 9 of the best water parks in Ontario that offer fun activities for the whole family!

7 Unique Places to Visit in Saskatchewan

March 12, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan 7 Comments

Are you looking for some interesting and unique places to visit in Saskatchewan?

Crooked Bush is one of the most unique places to visit in Saskatchewan. — Crooked Bush is one of the most unusual places to visit in Saskatchewan. Photo by Robin & Arlene Karpan.

If you like your travels a bit on the odd or unusual side, Saskatchewan has plenty to offer. From saltwater lakes and snake pits to Canadian wars and mysterious bushes, here are seven unique places to visit in Saskatchewan that range from historic to imaginative to downright spooky. One is even a bit creepy.

Best Sushi in Toronto

March 5, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Looking for the best sushi in Toronto?

best sushi in Toronto.

Toronto is truly a sushi mecca, with endless options on offer. From flame-seared sushi to aburi ebi oshi or even fresh maki rolls and spicy tuna maki, we do not doubt that you’ll find something to your liking in one of the (many) restaurants dotted across the city. But with so many great options on offer, how do you decide where to get your fix of sushi?

Well, don’t worry because we’re spilling all the intel on the top places Torontonians flock to over and over again. Toronto’s sushi scene has something for every price range, so whether you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience or just want to find a great spot for lunch, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best sushi in Toronto!

Best Restaurants in Halifax

February 27, 2024 By Darren Penney 1 Comment

Le Bistro By Liz is one of the best restaurants in Halifax.

Are you looking for the best restaurants in Halifax? Then you’ve come to the right place!

From breakfast joints handing out heaping helpings on the Halifax waterfront to cozy restaurants housed in historic buildings, this city certainly caters to every taste – although we must admit that the local seafood rules the menu here.

Think lobster tails smothered in butter, mussels simmered in garlic sauce, pillowy lobster rolls, fresh mussels washed down with craft beer… Halifax is no stranger to good food!

But enough talking. Here are the best restaurants in Halifax!

Best Restaurants in Toronto

February 20, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

When it comes to the best restaurants in Toronto, we’ve got you covered. After all, It’s no secret that Toronto is one of the world’s most drool-worthy dining destinations. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café or would want to check out the tasting menu at an upscale restaurant, Canada’s biggest city dishes up delicious discoveries around every corner.

Best Restaurants in Toronto — Photos for illustrative purposes.

Whether your tastes swing savoury, sweet, local, or international, we do not doubt that you’ll find flavours to feed any food fanatic’s fire.

Innovative chefs and indie restaurateurs are always taking Toronto’s food scenes to new heights – as evidenced by the many fusion eateries speckled across the city. But don’t just take our word for it: in this guide, we’ll take you through some of the most exciting dining destinations to help you plot your own culinary conquests.

So, grab your appetite and let’s check out the best restaurants in Toronto!

How to Enjoy Jasper in the Winter

February 20, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 21 Comments

Jasper in the Winter - Maligne Canyon Icewalk

Admiring the beauty of Maligne Canyon.

Visiting Jasper in the winter? This guide is for you!

Without a doubt, Jasper is one of the most beautiful destinations in Canada. Located within Jasper National Park and at the northern end of the world-famous Icefields Parkway, it’s a magical outdoor destination with towering mountains, clear rivers, beautiful lakes, and lush pine forests. Anyone interested in outdoor adventure or simply admiring some of Earth’s grand vistas will love Jasper, and in the winter, it’s all covered in white, sparkly snow.

The Best Spas in Toronto for Pure Relaxation

February 13, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best spa in Toronto? You’ve come to the right place!

Use this guide to find the best spa in Toronto. — Photo for illustrative purposes only.

It won’t take you long to realize that Torontonians know a thing or two about self-care. From high-tech facials to traditional treatment rooms, hydro massage, and floating pods, the metropolis has wellness on lockdown!

Whether you’re looking for a full-on pampering experience or just want to soak up some zen vibes during lunchtime, we do not doubt that you’ll find something that matches your budget and expectations in the city.

There’s something for just about everyone here: lush lavender lounges beckon at high-end hotels, infinity-edged showers and plush pools plucked right out of spa heaven. Soothing treatments abound, with sculpting wraps, collagen-packed peels, and all sorts of body scrubs.

So, get comfy as we take a deep dive into 13 of the best spas in Toronto to pump you full of glorious relaxation. Let us know in the comments what you consider to be the best spa in Toronto!

Road Tripping through Duck Mountain Provincial Park of Saskatchewan and Manitoba

February 6, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

The Duck Mountain Highlands straddle the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border. They are remarkable for having some of the most southerly boreal forest wilderness in the Prairies. Surrounded mostly by farmland, these hills remain a wild oasis cloaked with dense forest, numerous lakes and wetlands, valley meadows, and wildlife such as black bears, moose, deer, lynx, coyotes, and wolves.

Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Saskatchewan. — Farmland near Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Saskatchewan. Photo: Robin and Arlene Karpan.

Some 15,000 years ago, massive ice fields more than three kilometres thick were melting, pooling their waters into enormous glacial-fed Lake Agassiz. Along the western edges, ridges developed into the uplands that we see today.

Both Saskatchewan and Manitoba have a Duck Mountain Provincial Park to protect the environment and provide some outstanding recreational possibilities.

The best part is that we can take a scenic road trip loop combining the highlights of the parks in both provinces, including the highest point of elevation in Manitoba. Along the way, we also visit the mind-boggling Swan River Magnet Hill where you won’t believe your eyes as your car rolls uphill.