canada adventure travel

Adventurers have been drawn to Canada’s harsh, rocky wilderness for a long time because of its spectacular vistas and natural beauty. Les Stroud, also known as Survivorman, is one of the greatest guides if you want to get ideas for your next trip into the wild. Stroud has spent more than 30 years exploring Canada’s isolated areas. For travelers who want real, immersive experiences, he has put together five of his most memorable outdoor expeditions. These places aren’t simply pretty; they’re deep connections with nature itself. This is how to plan your next trip to Canada.

  1. South Nahanni River, Northwest Territories/Yukon

If you’re new to wilderness travel yet looking for something epic, the South Nahanni River offers an accessible but breathtaking canoeing adventure. Spanning 560km between the Yukon and Northwest Territories, this river takes you through awe-inspiring sights such as Virginia Falls, massive canyons, and ancient caves.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site for nearly four decades, this region is revered for its geological marvels and cultural heritage. Indigenous legends speak of the mysterious “Waheela” wolf spirit believed to inhabit the riverbanks. While mythic creatures may remain unseen, wildlife encounters here are very real. Stroud himself once awoke to find wolf tracks surrounding his campsite.

  • Travel itineraries tip: A basic canoeing skillset is sufficient for this journey, and many top-tier outfitters can help with gear and logistics.
  • Sustainable road trip itinerary for Yukon: Combine this paddle with eco-lodges and local community stays to reduce environmental impact.
  1. Telegraph Cove, British Columbia

For more advanced adventurers, sea kayaking in British Columbia’s Telegraph Cove is a next-level experience. Located on the northeast side of Vancouver Island, this coastal village blends colourful charm with unmatched marine biodiversity.

Navigating the area requires knowledge of tidal currents, but if you’re prepared, you’ll find yourself kayaking among orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles. Stroud’s personal account of dodging an aggressive sea lion is a reminder of nature’s unpredictability.

  • Multi-day trips: Consider a 3-day AI optimized itinerary for Vancouver Island combining kayaking, wildlife tours, and local dining.
  • Family trip itinerary with personalized AI assistance: Ideal for older children and teens with basic paddling skills.
  1. Temagami, Ontario

Hot tent winter camping in Temagami is both a test of endurance and a reward for resilience. This adventure involves snowshoeing into deep wilderness with a sled, a canvas tent, and a small stove—a method that creates warm refuge amidst -40°C conditions.

Stroud calls Temagami a less-traveled gem, even more serene than Ontario’s famous Algonquin Park. The region boasts vast pine forests and crystalline lakes, ideal for travellers seeking solitude and a deeper connection with winter.

  • Budget travel itinerary with eco-friendly options: Winter camping packages here often include sustainable practices like wood-stove cooking and Leave No Trace principles.
  • Luxury itinerary for a romantic eco-getaway in Ontario: Some providers offer upgraded tents and gourmet campfire meals.

les stroud survivorman

les stroud survivorman

  1. Marten River Provincial Park, Ontario 

Not every adventure needs extreme conditions. Marten River Provincial Park offers a tranquil base for road trippers who want to enjoy nature without roughing it. Located along major travel routes, it’s a favourite stop for drivers crossing the province.

Here you can enjoy the park’s massive red and white pines, many of which are centuries old. It’s also a quiet showcase of Ontario’s diverse flora, including rare orchids.

  • Road trip itineraries: Include Marten River in a best electric vehicle road trip route across Ontario.
  • Travel schedules: Ideal for overnight breaks between longer driving legs.
  1. Inuvik, Northwest Territories

If you’re curious about Arctic culture and adventure, dogsledding in Inuvik delivers a deeply rewarding experience. With minimal skill required, this journey places you behind a team of enthusiastic sled dogs across snow-packed trails.

While Stroud recalls his own chaotic first ride with oversized Inuit dogs, he affirms that a well-planned trip can be magical. Overnight sledding trips often conclude at remote cabins, giving you the chance to bond with animals and witness untouched Arctic landscapes.

  • Itinerary for an immersive cultural tour in Inuvik: Include visits to Indigenous communities and traditional food experiences.
  • Weekend itinerary for Inuvik with kids using AI powered suggestions: Great for families seeking guided experiences with safety.

Conclusion
It’s not just about planning how to get to your outdoor adventures in Canada; it’s also about honoring and connecting with the land. The variety and raw beauty of Canada’s outdoors can be seen in Les Stroud’s top picks. You can connect with nature in a real way on these trips, whether you’re sailing past waterfalls, riding behind a dog team, or stopping to rest under tall woods. If you plan your trip well and keep an open mind, these events can become important parts of your journey story.