The Trans-Canada Highway: Roadside attractions you shouldn’t miss
As written for The Safe Driver.
The longest road in Canada, symbolically named the Trans-Canada Highway, connects the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching from far east to the far west, this road passes through all ten provinces of Canada. It links major cities such as Vancouver, Winnipeg, Ottawa, and Montreal, just to name a few. T-Can, as locals sometimes call it, is one of the longest roads in the world. It goes on for incredible 7,821 kilometers or 4,860 miles.
On a road this long, there is plenty of interesting things to do. Here is a list of seven roadside attractions you shouldn’t miss while taking the T-Can, from the west to the east:
- Three Valley Lake Chateau, British Columbia
This amazing site can be spotted near the town of Revelstoke. As if the breathtaking scenery of surrounding mountains and lakes is not enough! Three Valley Gap Chateau is at the same time a hotel, antique auto museum, and a heritage ghost town. It is traditionally owned by the Bell family for more than 60 years. This location is a perfect stop on the Trans-Canada Highway – you can go for a walk in the nature or enjoy different kinds of entertainment in the Chateau.
- Banff National Park, Alberta
Canada is known for its’ incredible wildlife and nature. Banff National Park is the perfect example of it. If you drive through this area, there is no way you won’t stop to look at the animals. The elks, moose, bears, you name it. Although they are fascinating to look at, you shouldn’t forget to drive carefully and keep an eye on the road while passing through the National Park.
- Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino, Alberta
If you get tired of driving, this site could be just the entertainment you are looking for. It is located west of the city of Calgary and run by Nakoda families, which is one of the First Nations in this area. They offer a one-of-a-kind experience, uniting connection with nature, sports activities, and amusement. However, if you want to play, but don’t feel like taking a detour, online slots for real money are a good choice. We won’t judge.
- Mac the Moose, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
World’s biggest moose is located near the interesting and mysterious Moose Jaw Tunnels. It is 10 meters tall and weighs 10 tons. It was created in 1984 as an attraction for travelers and locals passing by. Today it still fascinates everyone who gazes up while driving on the T-Can.
- Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
This National Historic Site is created to educate visitors about the culture of the First Nations, their history, and traditions. The land it is located on tells stories about more than 6,000 years of aboriginal history. They offer fascinating galleries and cultural exhibitions. Definitely one of the most interesting stops along the highway!
- World’s Largest Coke Can, Portage-la-Prairie, Manitoba
Another one of the world’s largest pops out unexpectedly while cruising down the TCH. It used to be just a regular water tower in the prairies, but now it brings out smiles from everyone that passes by. Great Insta-photo opportunity!
- The Big Nickel, Sudbury, Ontario
World’s largest coin, just like the world’s largest moose, was displayed in 1964. It is nine meters tall and overlooks the Dynamic Earth science center. Although seems like a nickel, the creator and owner sold it to the city for not-very-nickel $550,000. A good trade indeed, if you ask us.
Canada offers a lot of extraordinary sites that are admired by travelers from around the globe. We hope this list helps you to choose where to stop along one of the longest and most interesting roads in the world.