8 hard-to-reach Canadian destinations that are worth the trip

Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte islands, Haida Gwaii is accessible by plane (flights go from Vancouver or Prince Rupert), ferry (a day’s journey from Prince Rupert) or personal watercraft. Once you’re there, explore the rainforest, hike up Mosquito Mountain, learn about the rich Haida culture at the Kay Llnagaay Heritage centre or kayak through the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

Hornby Island, nestled in the Georgia Strait, is a remote gem that’s two ferry rides away from the mainland. Once you make it there, take advantage of its exceptional mountain biking trails and calm, protected kayaking routes. Astronomy buffs should check out Island Stars, an observatory that offers private stargazing sessions.

Kluane is home to Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak, but although it’s a choice destination for mountaineers, there’s lots of other activities as well, including river rafting and mountain biking. Located 160 kilometres west of Whitehorse, Kluane’s eastern edge — which includes access to hiking trails and camping — is accessible by car, while its interior is only accessible by plane or with a mountaineering expedition.

At the northern end of Saskatchewan, just over the border from Alberta, Canada’s “largest active sand surface” stretches 100 kilometres along the southern shore of Lake Athabasca. The dunes, some as high as 30-metres tall, are only accessible by float plane from Uranium City, Stony Rapids or Fond du Lac. Guided expeditions are available to explore the unique ecosystem, and while independent travellers are welcome, the park has no onsite services.

Located in Lake Superior Provincial Park, Bathtub Island is a small island with a low depression at one end, which gets filled with water when the waves wash over it. Accessible by walking over a sandbar (caution: you will get wet) Bathtub Island is a neat spot within an already majestic location. Plus, the shallow water gets warmed by the sun — a welcome relief from the chillness of Lake Superior.

For an immersive experience learning about Manawan’s First Nations community, travel 87 kilometres north of Saint-Michel-des-Saints through the forest to the Atikamekw community. There, stay in the Manawan Inn, or book a package that includes two nights in a traditional tipi. Tour the community with local guides, interact with artisans, or explore the natural world — all with a First Nations perspective.

Wild horses outnumber the permanent residents on Sable Island, a crescent-shaped sand island far off the coast of Nova Scotia. Visiting Sable Island National Park requires registration in advance and some legwork to get there, but it’s worth it to see the dramatic sand dunes and the world’s biggest breeding colony of grey seals.

Remote Fogo Island and Change Islands are accessible by ferry from Gander, and offer visitors a chance to connect with one of Canada’s most enduring cultural heritages. On Fogo Island, consider staying at the ultra-modern Fogo Island Inn, then explore history in the village of Tilting, a National Historic Site. On Change Islands, you may have a chance to come face-to-face with a Newfoundland pony.