Canadians, Poutine, and Polar Bears – A Trip Up North

Canadians, Poutine, and Polar Bears – A Trip Up North

You’ve always dreamed of seeing majestic polar bears roaming arctic ice floes and tasting the ultimate comfort food – poutine. Well, now you can make that dream a reality with an epic road trip up north to Canada for the experience of a lifetime! 

From world-famous Niagara Falls to the quaint cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, prepare your taste buds and camera for the wonders that await as you dive in to all things uniquely Canadian. 

Grab your warmest parka, a box of Timbits, and your best travel buds for an unforgettable journey through this scenic country of friendly folks, funky landmarks, and fusion cuisine that you’ll want to make an annual tradition. This trip will give you 100 reasons to fall in love with the Great White North, so grab your passport renewal fee and explore Canada now.

Outdoor Adventures Across Canada’s Diverse Landscapes

Canada’s natural landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning. From coast to coast, you’ll find adventures for every outdoor enthusiast.

Hit the Slopes

Whether you prefer cross-country or downhill, Canada’s mountains offer world- class skiing and snowboarding. In the west, Whistler Blackcomb reigns supreme with over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. In the east, Mont Tremblant charms with its quaint village and over 600 acres of runs.

Paddle Power

With over 2 million lakes and rivers, Canada is a paddler’s paradise. Rent a canoe or kayak and explore peaceful lakes like Banff’s Moraine Lake or Jasper’s Maligne Lake. For an adventure, tackle a multi-day canoe trip down the Yukon River or raft the churning rapids of the Ottawa River.

Spot Wildlife

Canada’s wilderness is home to bears, whales, moose and more. Go whale watching off Vancouver Island or Churchill, Manitoba to see massive polar bears in their natural habitat. Landlubbers can spot black bears, grizzly bears, and mountain goats in Banff and Jasper National Parks. Time your visit right and you may even witness the spectacle of salmon spawning.

Hit the Hiking Trails

Lace up your hiking boots and tackle one of Canada’s premier hiking trails. The West Coast Trail winds through an ancient rainforest on Vancouver Island. In Alberta, the Skyline Trail offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. And if you’re looking for a challenge, the Chilkoot Trail recreates the Klondike Gold Rush journey, crossing into Alaska. 

With stunning vistas, exciting activities, and opportunities to get up close with nature, Canada’s great outdoors will call you back again and again. Venture out and discover your own adventures in this land of unmatched natural beauty. 

Must-Try Canadian Food and Drink

When in Canada, you absolutely must try some of the classic Canadian cuisine. Here are a few foods and drinks to add to your culinary bucket list:

Poutine

Poutine is Canada’s favorite comfort food. It’s a delicious mess of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. The fries get all warm and soggy from the gravy, while the cheese curds melt into gooey deliciousness. Poutine is popular after a night out, watching hockey, or any time you need some carb-loaded, savory goodness in your life.

Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal bagels are sweeter and denser than regular bagels. They’re boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in a wood-fired oven. Grab an “all-dressed” bagel with sesame and poppy seeds and enioy it with cream cheese or your favorite toppings.

Maple Syrup

Canada produces 71% of the world’s maple syrup, so you know it’s going to be good. Real Canadian maple syrup is made from the sap of maple trees. It’s delicious drizzled on pancakes, waffles, yogurt or oatmeal. You can also find maple-flavored everything in Canada from maple bacon to maple butter tarts and maple cheddar cheese.

Canadian Whiskey

Some of the world’s best whiskeys are made in Canada. Crown Royal, Canadian Club and Wiser’s are some of the most well-known brands. Canadian whiskey tends to be lighter and smokey compared to bourbon. It’s traditionally enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned.

Beavertails

Beavertails are flat, fried dough pastries topped with sweet treats like Nutella, bananas, Reese’s Pieces or maple butter. They’re named for their oval shape that resembles a beaver’s tail. Beavertails are a Canadian delicacy found at fairs, ski hills and food trucks across the country. No trip to Canada is complete without this fried, gooey goodness.