#1000towns choice
By Kaitlyn Hui
No vacation is without looking at some of the attractions. We all want to feel like we can see down below and gaze at the unique perspectives.
Canada is known for its beautiful places to visit. You may feel like you take a hike to get there or even a drive, but the views are definitely worth it. We made sure to compile a perfect list that will make you want to stay.
As we’re all packing for our summer travels, we at #1000towns are here to give you all the important information regarding the best lookout points in Canada. You’ll be sure to stun all your friends with gorgeous scenic pictures, so get reading to find out more!
Photo: Michal Klajban – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
#1
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Town: Thunder Bay, Ontario
Home of One of the Seven Wonders of Canada
In Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, you must-to-see the Sleeping Giant Formation. Notably, the mesas that form the Sleeping Giant are known for their steep slopes that are a startling 250m, the highest in Ontario.
In fact, these rocks were voted one of the 7 Wonders of Canada, beating out Niagara Falls because of its majestic size and nature. Since it is so high, you’ll surely have amazing views of the surrounding waters and forests.
Just east of Thunder Bay, this park is perfect for camping, hiking, and spending time with friends. At a 23 km hike, you can venture to the peak to see what all the hype is about.
Photo: Mhsheikholeslami – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
#2
Lions Head Lookout
Town: Tobermory, Ontario
200-Foot Cliffs Calling Your Name
The Lion’s Head Trail is another of the best hikes you can go on. It offers views of Cape Dundas as well as the cliffs of White Bluff and Cabot Head.
Only 6.8km, you can get there in under 2 hours while getting one of the best views in the province. Underneath will be clear waters, so you should definitely go on a sunny day.
It is quite a popular attraction, so be sure to get there quickly since there is also limited parking. There are multiple routes you can follow, so there is a little bit of something for everyone. For example, they even have a Lion’s Head Farmer’s Market on some days!
Photo: Mhsheikholeslami – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
#3
Chic-Choc Mountains
Town: Sainte-Anne-des-Monts | Quebec
Part of the Appalachian Trail
Parallel to the St. Lawrence River, the Chic-Choc Mountains have some of the best skiing areas as well as trails such as the International Appalachian Trail.
If you’re looking for the best view, you’ll need to go in the summer. There, you can head to the Flora Observation, where you can see a ton of birds or go kayaking and stand-up paddling.
The peaks can reach over 1000 m high, and the terrain can be rough, so some prefer to travel with a guide. However, it’s all worth it when you get to the top. You can traverse through the tundra or the forest, so add this spot to the list.
Photo: ipatboy (Patrick) – https://www.flickr.com/photos/24015507@N08/2907573970/, CC BY-SA 2.0
#4
Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay
Town: Rivière-Éternité, Quebec
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Quebec
Located along a fjord, this park has three main regions – the Baie-Éternité, the Baie-Sainte-Marguerite and the Baie du Moulin-à-Baude, all extremely beautiful and all with their special features.
According to recent tourist statistics, 90% of visitors come from outside the region, which just speaks to how magnificent the sights are. You can spot harbour seals from inside the park, and there are several attractions, such as the Notre-Dame-du-Saguenay Statue.
If you wish to stay longer, there are campgrounds and cabins along the park so you can enjoy and take your time to explore.
Photo: By J-A Béland – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
#5
Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower
Haliburton Highlands, Ontario
100-foot tower to see the sights
Built in 1967, the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower has many glorious trails for you to travel so you can gaze upon the view below. Only 2.3 km, the route is very popular for those interested in hiking, biking, and just taking in the nature around you.
The tower is sturdy and has a spiral staircase up around 30 metres which is fairly easy to climb. There are some epic scenic views from the observation deck, and you can even visit the Dorset Heritage Museum close by. So, if you’re in the area, this is a great place to check out!
Photo: https://www.1000towns.ca/dorset-outlook-tower-2/
#6
Killarney Provincial Park: The Crack Lookout
Town: Killarney, Ontario
Perfect for experienced climbers
For those looking for a challenge, The Crack is no easy feat and can be quite difficult. That being said, you need proper preparation for safety purposes. Simply put, this is a mountain with rugged rocks every which way. However, the view is well worth it.
From the top, you can see Killarney and O.S.A. lakes which shine an amazing blue in the sun. As well you will be able to spot the Georgian Bay coastline. Nearby, there is also the La Cloche Silhouette trail which isn’t nearly as difficult since it starts flat and then turns into an incline. Regardless, pack well and don’t forget your essentials!
Photo: Mark.guerra10 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
#7
West Lion
Greater Vancouver, British Columbia
One of the most famous mountains in BC
This 8-hour hike is roughly 16 km long, but don’t let that discourage you. If you’re from BC, you’ll know that the Lions are the most famous mountains in the province as they are easily spottable from any distance.
Near Howe Sound, if you choose to hike this trail, you will be immersed in beautiful Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar forests that will be sure to take your breath away.
Photo: Ted McGrath, flickr, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
#8
Saint Marks Summit
Greater Vancouver, British Columbia
Moderate to difficult hike for half of a day
The Saint Marks Summit hike is close to Vancouver and has a breathtaking view at the top of the summit with deep cliff drops.
This hike is the most popular trail in Cypress Provincial Park, with the viewpoint overlooking the Howe Sound. It spans over 30 km from Cypress to a point at the Sea to Sky Highway and is a moderate to difficult trail, so it is great if you want a good workout with a rewarding view.
Photo: Google Maps, Moj Noroozi