The Best Road Trip from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta!

Are you thinking about planning a road trip with your friends or family but can't decide where to go? If you're on the hunt for an adventure, then you're in the right place! From the capital city of Ottawa to the prairies of Calgary, Alberta, this route will take you through beautiful landscapes, impressive historical sites, and fantastic food stops. Here are the top places to see when driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario, to Calgary, Alberta.

1. Thousand Islands

Located on the St. Lawrence River, the Thousand Islands are a wonder to behold. It is an area comprising over 1,000 islands, with several of them being privately owned. A few communities in the area offer boat tours of the region, providing tourists with awe-inspiring views of the islands, including Boldt Castle. A stopover at this spectacular piece of architecture is recommended. There are many things to see and do in The Thousand Islands. From boat trips, hiking, to kayaking, this stop offers an excellent combination of adventure and scenic views.

2. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is your next best stop as you leave Ottawa. It's a popular park that provides one of the easiest opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy nature. You'll get to enjoy the park's beauty by hiking, camping, biking, and canoeing. With several campsites spread across the park, you'll find a place to rest, no matter the time of day. Algonquin Park has recreational activities for every member of your family.

3. Kakabeka Falls

Located in Ontario, Kakabeka Falls is among the most incredible waterfalls in Canada. The waterfall is over 40 meters high, making it one of the largest in Ontario. A stopover at this hidden gem will leave visitors awestruck with the falls' natural beauty and the surrounding area. The hiking trails around the falls will introduce you to the region's plant and animal life. A visit to Kakabeka Falls is well worth a detour as it's a stunning place to snap photos and hike.

4. Riding Mountain National Park

Riding Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an important tourist destination between Winnipeg and Calgary. The park is located on the Manitoba escarpment and surrounded by barrens, lakes, and forests. With a broad range of visitor activities, such as hiking, wildlife observation, and camping, you'll get to soak in the breathtaking scenery. Visit Lake Audy to see its bison grazing and the visitor center to learn about the park's conservation efforts.

5. The Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology

The Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology is an exhibition-based museum that houses Canada's largest collection of dinosaur fossils. The museum is located in Drumheller and has a broad range of exhibitions, workshops, and tours that entertain the whole family. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and parents will marvel at the dinosaur skeletons and fossils. Don't miss out on the chance to visit the world-renowned museum for the best display of natural history in North America.

Conclusion

There's no shortage of spectacular scenery, fun attractions, and breathtaking locations to visit when driving from Old Ottawa to Calgary, Alberta. This guide features five of the best sightseeing stops to make your journey worth it. So, get packing and hit the road to discover the natural wonders of the Thousand Islands and Algonquin Provincial park, the bison activities at Riding Mountain Park, and the fossils and dinosaur exhibits at the Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology. Get ready to create long-lasting memories with your family and friends.