The Canadian National Parks system is run by “Parks Canada”, which is responsible for the maintenance of the 8 National Park reserves, which are divided into 38 National Parks, 3 National Marine Conservation Areas and 1 National Landmark. This parks system also includes a total of 157 historical locations in Canada, which can be visited on tours or guided excursions at different times of the year.

As well as the ecological and environmental conservation of the parks, the National Parks system also aims to motivate families and student groups, teaching them the importance of conserving these natural areas so that they can be explored and enjoyed.

If you live in the United Kingdom and would like to visit these wonders of nature, you need to obtain first your travel authorization, also known as ETA Visa or ETA Canada. The eTA application process allows travellers from visa exempt countries to apply online, from the comfort of their home or office and avoid the hassle of requesting a visa at the embassy or consulate.

So, because we know that you love adventure, travel and nature, we would like to give you more details of some of the most emblematic parks and forest reserves in Canada.

1. Banff National Park

In 1885 the first National Park was created in Canada, located in the Rocky Mountains. The Banff National Park, which is to the west of Calgary, in the province of Alberta; the Park covers an area of 6641 square kilometres and has various glaciers and thick forests.

To the north, the Icefields Parkway road, which goes through Lake Louise, connects Banff National Park with Jasper National Park, making it possible to see both parks in one trip if you have enough time. Another tourist attraction in this destination is the park’s shopping centre, which is located in Banff city.

In 1984 this National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, like the Canadian Rocky Mountains Parks.

2. Yoho National Park

This park is located on the western edge of the Rocky Mountains, in the province of British Columbia, and was officially opened in 1885 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

“Yoho” is an expression from the chippewa-cree language and means “awe” or “wonder”. It was chosen as the name of this park due to the amazing beauty of this mountain range which boasts some beautiful scenery. In the park the climate is variable; in the summer the temperature can reach 20° Celsius and in the winter it can drop to -35°.

3. Lawrence Islands National Park

This park is situated in the Thousand Islands’ area, beside the River San Lorenzo. This archipelago of islands was formed due to the erosion of the old mountain range and is made up of a total of 21 islands and various islets covering an area of 9 square kilometres, near the city of Brockville in the Canadian province of Ontario.

This group of islands has a visitor centre where tourists can go to relax together. It is situated in Mallorytown. Access to the islands is only possible by boat and there are not many camping areas. The countryside and surroundings are full of nature making it the perfect place for picnics with family or friends, who want to contemplate the beautiful scenery while enjoying themselves.

4. Point Pelee National Park

Opened in 1918, this park has become a place of interest for those who enjoy birdwatching and also for those who love the protection and conservation of the environment and the ecosystem.

The Canadian authorities established it as a National Park and it is situated in the southwest of the province of Ontario. Geographically, it is a peninsula made up of forests which cover an area towards Lake Erie.

If you have the opportunity to travel and request your ETA Visa, do not miss the chance to enjoy, travel through and contemplate all these natural wonders and their different landscapes.