If you're looking for a winter getaway, consider hitting the road in the Great White North. Canada is dotted with show-stopping sights that sparkle in the snow, from frozen waterfalls to hot springs.
When you think "road trip season," summer probably comes to mind. But this might make you reconsider: during the colder months, entry fees usually plummet and most Canadian gems are far less crowded.
Still, as the days are shorter and the weather becomes more turbulent, proper preparation is crucial for a safe and fun trip. The country has such diverse landscapes, so you'll likely experience different road conditions in each province.
Whether you're a new driver or a seasoned vet, navigating snowy or icy roads is no small task. The first order of business: getting your car set up for the journey — this year, take control of the roads with Kia's Winter Ready Bundle.
Kia provides you with all the essential items to keep you confident and safe on your snowy route. The bundle includes wheels, tires and pressure monitoring sensors.
Plus, Kia offers a Tire Price Match Promise so you can have some peace of mind that you're getting the right tires at the best price. Just reach out to your local Kia dealership to get a quote and pimp your ride with all the winter necessities.
Feel confident on your journey with the proper preparation, and visit these seven stunning Canadian destinations that look even better in the winter.
Witness The Power Of Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park In Ontario
Price: $15.50 per vehicle for a day pass
When: Open all year
Address: Kakabeka Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: Just a 30-minute drive from Thunder Bay, you'll find Ontario's second-highest waterfall. Known as the "Niagara of the North," Kakabeka Falls drops 40 metres into the Kaministiquia River — it's magnificent when frozen.
You can even see 1.6 million-year-old fossils at the bottom of the fall's gorge. Thanks, erosion.
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Explore The Snowy Chic Choc Mountains In Quebec
Price: $9 for a daily access pass to Gaspésie National Park
When: November 1-May 31
Address: 1981 Route du Parc, QC-299, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, QC
Why You Need To Go: Within the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec sits the Chic-Choc Mountains, a narrow mountain range forming the northern extension of the Appalachians.
Often called "The Rockies of the East," the area has 25 snowy peaks. This is the spot for skiers and snowboarders looking to shred.
The drive up to Gaspésie National Park alone is an otherworldly experience, but the winding road can get seriously icy. Make sure you've got winter tires on for faster and more precise braking (plus a stopping distance that's around 6 metres shorter than all-season tires).
Marvel At The Icefields Parkway's Dramatic Landscape In Alberta
Price: $10 per person for admission into each park
When: November 1-April 1
Address: Jasper National Park to Banff National Park
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for the ultimate Canadian winter road trip, Alberta's Icefields Parkway should be at the top of your list. The 230-kilometre route connects the popular Jasper National Park to Banff National Park.
There's no shortage of stunning sights in the Canadian Rockies. Take your time and stop at the numerous lookouts, lakes and trails along the way before arriving at either of the national parks.
Snow tires are mandatory on the Icefields Parkway until April, so be sure to prepare with a winter-tire bundle from Kia. Bonus: you'll feel even better knowing that you snagged your wheels at the best price with Kia's Price Match Promise.
Get Steamy At Radium Hot Springs In British Columbia
Price: $7.46 per person
When: Open all year
Address: 5420 Highway 93, Radium Hot Springs, BC
Why You Need To Go: Right in B.C.'s Kootenay National Park, you can soak in 100% natural mineral water at the Radium Hot Springs. The huge, naturally-heated pool is surrounded by rocky cliffs and a landscape of tall trees.
The escape from the cold into rejuvenating, turquoise water is more than worth the drive.
Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis, and wait times can be very long during busy periods.
Try To Spot Grizzly Bears In Kluane National Park In The Yukon
Price: Prices vary depending on the activity
When: November 1-March 31
Address: Kluane National Park, YT
Why You Need To Go: Near the Alaska border, you can find Kluane National Park and Reserve. This park has the world's largest non-polar icefield, along with 17 of Canada's 20 tallest peaks and plenty of wildlife.
Bring your snowshoes, or hop on a flightseeing tour over the incredible icefields to take your appreciation for the landscape to a whole new level.
If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights or a grizzly bear. Just be sure your tires are winter ready with Kia for a quick getaway from these furry friends.
Skate The Rideau Canal & Eat A Beaver Tail In Ottawa
Price: Free
When: January to early March
Address: Starting at the National Arts Centre; 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It's the world's largest skating rink at a whopping 7.8 kilometres, and it winds through the nation's gorgeous capital.
With adorable shops lining the ice, the historic Rideau Canal is the perfect winter road trip pit stop. Don't forget to fuel up with hot cocoa and some Beaver Tails, eh?
Soak In The Views At Fundy National Park In New Brunswick
Price: $7.90 daily admission for adults
When: November to May
Address: Alma, NB
Why You Need To Go: Just beyond the quaint fishing village of Alma is the National Park, a maritime treasure boasting over 23 kilometres of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and bike trails.
Check out the many frozen waterfalls in the area and watch the Bay of Fundy's winter waves crash.
Proper planning for any weather condition is the key to a stress-free winter road trip. After all, who wants to be worried about their tire pressure when they could be taking in the gorgeous scenery?
For a smooth journey, watch the weather forecast, check out your route and be sure to take advantage of winter-tire offers.
With Kia's Winter Tire Bundle, you can score a deal on the ultimate package to handle the harsh winter conditions. Prepare yourself for a safe (and stunning) journey through the snowscapes of Canada.
Get prepared for your next winter road trip with Kia's Winter Tire Bundle and Price Match Promise. To learn more, you can follow Kia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
Some provinces require proof of vaccination. Always check with the local provincial website for rules and regulations before travelling.
