Canada in Summer 2025 – Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds

Summer calls for adventure and fun activities. Summer is the season when tourists flock to almost all the popular attractions. Places like Banff, Whistler, and Jasper are definitely going to be crowded with tourists in summer. However, there are a few hidden gems that attract the least crowd and are interesting to visit. Here is how you can see Canada in summer 2025 – hidden gems to beat the crowds.

Canada in Summer 2025 – Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds

These hidden gems in Canada offer an enjoyable vacation experience without the crowds. Off-the-beaten-path locations allow you to relax and unwind in the midst of exploring various attractions and your surroundings.

Here are some of the hidden gems in Canada.

Canada in Summer 2025 – Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Toronto

Balls Falls Conservation Area

Balls Falls Conservation Area is set within the picturesque Twenty Valley. The conservation area is an award-winning site that serves as a true nature haven. The area focuses on nature, conservation, and culture, drawing inspiration from the history of the Niagara Falls embankment.

Big Tub Harbour

Driving past the national park is when you come across two picturesque harbours named Big Tub and Little Tub harbours. The calm and clear waters in this area are home to Canada’s best-preserved shipwrecks. These shipwrecks date as early as the 19^th century. Travellers can explore these shipwrecks by scuba diving and snorkelling.

Greig’s Caves

Toronto is well-known for its parks with flora and fauna. Many people head to these locations, which can become crowded in the summer. Greg’s Cave is one of the best hidden gems in the region. The caves are ideal for those who crave an extreme hiking experience through rugged trails. The highlight of the location is the amazing natural limestone caves that you should not miss for any reason.

Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Ottawa

Remic Rapids Park

Remic Rapids Park, situated on the shore of the Ottawa River, is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park offers a nature-based alternative to the Parliament Buildings, where most tourists typically congregate. Remic Rapids Park provides amazing views of the Ottawa River. The park boasts lush greenery, featuring a diverse array of plant and animal species. It is also a place where you can catch a glimpse of migratory birds.

Merrickville

Merrickville is the perfect day trip to take, with an hour’s drive from Ottawa. You can relax walking on the streets lined with shops that sell everything from clothes to garden decorations, artisan soaps, and many more. You can also visit the Merrickville ruins, located on a small island in the Rideau River.

Bonnechere Caves

Bonnechere Caves are perfect for a family education tour. The staff at the site takes you through the amazing history and formation of the caves. You can see everything from caves to waterfalls, fossils, and much more. Discover the prehistoric era through various educational tours.

Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Vancouver

The Backyard Farm

The Backyard Farm is a haven for food lovers, located outside of Oliver, British Columbia. The area is comprised of vineyards and expansive gardens filled with fruit trees, diverse flora, and abundant fauna. The farmhouse-turned-Chef’s Table is a must-visit for a memorable culinary experience.

Cypress Falls Park

Who told Whistler is the only great location for a vacation near Vancouver in British Columbia? Cypress Falls Park is an excellent hiking spot, situated just 20 minutes from Vancouver. The hike through lush forests takes you through magnificent waterfalls that will leave you mesmerized.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is located less than two hours from Vancouver. These hot springs are extremely popular as they are among the most mineral-rich in the world. The mineral density is due to the high sulphur concentrations. A great way to relax is to go for a walk through Sasquatch Provincial Park.

Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Montreal

Au Diable Vert

Au Diable Vert is an excellent location for adventurous souls. You can choose to pedal a bike through the sky on a cable. It provides the best opportunity for a 360-degree view of the surrounding natural landscape, featuring mountains, waterfalls, and rivers.

Sucrerie de la Montagne

Sucrerie de la Montagne is a must-visit heritage site located in Montreal. This Quebec Heritage site consists of a restaurant, a general store, and a bar. It is open every day, offering a variety of fun activities, including wagon rides and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

The Laurentians

Although Laurentians may not sound like a “hidden gem”, it has many areas where it is possible to escape crowds, you can go down the winding road to taste local beers and meet the farmers. You can even go on an expedition to the woods.

Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Edmonton

Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park may not be as popular as other national parks, such as Banff and Jasper. However, the park plays a significant role in biodiversity and wildlife conservation. It is home to bison, elk, and 250 bird species. Elk Island National Park also has perfect spots for you to have a picnic with your family or friends.

Pembina River Tubing

Pembina River Tubing is an enjoyable activity to do with friends and family. Take a boat down the Pembina River to immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

Devon

This off-the-beaten-path town is a mere 40-minute drive from Edmonton. It’s a town with friendly residents and numerous fun activities to enjoy. These fun activities include riding on the trails in Riverview Bike Park and exploring roadside shops and cafes.

Hidden Gems to Beat the Crowds in Winnipeg

Gimli

Gimli consists of an Icelandic community that came for settlement in 1875. Therefore, the local culture still holds Icelandic traits. You can experience the Icelandic festival in August every year. Enjoy your summer immersing yourself in the beauty of the area and savouring local seafood dishes.

Birds Hill Provincial Park

Birds Hill Provincial Park is where you can enjoy the local scene in farms that are 15 minutes apart from each other. You can enjoy activities ranging from horse riding to getting up close with animals, tasting local food, and many more.

Roadside attractions

Going up Highway 6 through Lake Manitoba Narrows towards the Parkway region, you get to experience the picturesque scenery of the surrounding areas. Popular attractions along this route include the world’s largest curling rock, the Grandview train, and many more.

Wrap Up

You don’t have to be stuck in the crowds when spending your summer in any of the provinces in Canada. Go to these hidden gems to beat the crowds and have an enjoyable vacation with family and friends.