5 Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations in Canada

We've all heard of Kluane National Park. But few of us actually visit this 22,000-sq-km natural showcase—illustrated by the crowd-free hiking within. Lush valleys, impressive icefields and tall mountains (including Mount Logan, Canada's highest) characterize this expansive preserve. Pitch a tent at serene Kathleen Lake Campground and hike 16-km Auriol Trail your first day, then explore outward from there. pc.gc.ca/kluane

Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore is remarkably rural, considering how easily accessible it is from Halifax. Within an hour of leaving the Maritimes' largest city, you'll be out of cellphone range! Welcome to Tangier—sea kayaker's paradise. Contact Scott Cunningham at Coastal Adventures and you'll have one of the province's most experienced paddlers guiding you through these protected, island-strewn waters. coastaladventures.com

Pinawa is the "Deer Capital of Manitoba." Ungulates aside, we recommend visiting this town, 90 minutes east of Winnipeg, to paddle the meandering Pinawa River—an exceptional day-float through classic Central Canada environs. Cruise past wild rice paddies toward the Pinawa Dam, a 1900-era ruin that seems more post-apocalypse than turn-of-the-century. Finish with a swim in the cool waters and be back in The 'Peg for dinner. (Oh, since it's Manitoba—I mean "supper.") pinawa.com

Newfoundland is an outdoor mecca—though it seems Gros Morne National Park and the Bonavista Peninsula hog all the attention. For an off-track getaway, try Central Newfoundland. Stop by the town of King's Point and fuel up with breakfast (bakeapple!) at By The Sea Inn & Cafe before tackling the nine-kilometre Alexander Murray Trail. Trudge up 2,200 stairs towards panoramic Haypook Summit, stopping for a photo at Corner Brook Falls en route. Continue on for a loop, or backtrack and explore the local area further during the afternoon. centralnewfoundland.com

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Hornby Island, Denman Island is more than just a pass-through. Located off the central east coast of Vancouver Island, BC, this long-and-narrow landmass is a road-cyclist's paradise. Park your car at the  BC Ferries Buckley Bay Terminal and board the boat via bike. From the offload, cycle south on Lacon Road to Boyle Point Provincial Park, then return along the west side—stopping at scenic Filongley Provincial Park (pictured) for a picnic with a view of Hornby, just a kilometre or so away. denmanisland.com

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