When Canadians think of road trips, the same iconic routes often come to mind year after year.
While those classics are popular for a reason, 2026 is shaping up to be the perfect time to explore parts of the country that fly under the radar.
With crowded highways, busy national parks, and rising travel costs, many drivers are looking for quieter, more rewarding road trips that still deliver unforgettable scenery.
This year’s list focuses on lesser-known regions that offer incredible landscapes, open roads, and a more relaxed driving experience.
If you’re ready to explore somewhere new in 2026, these Canadian road trip destinations deserve a spot on your map.
Northern Ontario’s Lake Superior Backroads
Most drivers experience Lake Superior from Highway 17, but the real magic lies just off the main route.
Northern Ontario’s lesser-known backroads reveal remote beaches, rugged cliffs, and quiet lakes that feel worlds away from busy tourist stops.
Routes near Marathon, Rossport, and the Black Bay Peninsula offer dramatic shoreline views and access to uncrowded hiking trails and picnic spots.
The drives are long and remote, but that’s part of the appeal.
Best time to go: Late June to early September
Vehicle tips: Ensure good tire condition and carry extra fuel when travelling off the main highway
Why it’s special: Vast landscapes, minimal traffic, and a true sense of wilderness
Saskatchewan’s Great Sand Hills Scenic Loop
Saskatchewan rarely tops road trip lists, but the Great Sand Hills region is one of Canada’s most surprising landscapes.
Rolling sand dunes stretch for kilometres, creating a desert-like environment unlike anywhere else in the country.
A road trip through the southwest of the province takes you through wide-open prairie, quiet farming towns, and unique ecosystems.
Traffic is light, roads are straight, and the skies feel endless.
Best time to go: Late spring to early fall
Vehicle tips: Watch tire pressure during hot summer days and be prepared for long distances between services
Why it’s special: Unique terrain, peaceful drives, and incredible sunsets
Quebec’s Côte-Nord Beyond Tadoussac
Many road trippers stop at Tadoussac and turn back, but continuing east along Quebec’s Côte-Nord unlocks one of the most dramatic coastal drives in Canada.
The route hugs the St. Lawrence River before opening up to rugged coastline, waterfalls, and expansive views of the Gulf.
Small towns like Baie-Comeau, Sept-Îles, and Havre-Saint-Pierre offer authentic local culture and access to uncrowded natural attractions.
Best time to go: July to September
Vehicle tips: Check brakes and suspension before travelling long coastal stretches
Why it’s special: Wild coastline, marine wildlife, and far fewer crowds than southern Quebec
Manitoba’s Interlake Region
Located between Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba, the Interlake region offers a relaxed road trip experience that many Canadians overlook.
Quiet highways connect beach towns, wetlands, and provincial parks, making it ideal for drivers who enjoy scenic detours.
This is a great destination for travellers who want a slower pace, birdwatching, fishing, and uncrowded lakeside stops.
Best time to go: June to August
Vehicle tips: Watch for wildlife crossings, especially at dawn and dusk
Why it’s special: Calm roads, friendly communities, and unexpected natural beauty
Newfoundland’s Irish Loop (Backcountry Route)
While the Irish Loop is gaining popularity, most visitors stick to the main paved route.
Exploring the lesser-travelled side roads reveals remote fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most powerful ocean views in the country.
Foggy mornings and winding coastal roads make this a drive best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
Best time to go: July to early October
Vehicle tips: Keep headlights on in fog and ensure wipers are in top condition
Why it’s special: Raw coastal scenery, cultural charm, and unforgettable drives
Preparing Your Vehicle For Remote Canadian Road Trips
Off-the-beaten-path routes often mean fewer services and longer distances between towns.
Preparing your vehicle properly can make the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful one.
Before heading out:
- Inspect tires, including the spare
- Test your battery and charging system
- Top up all fluids
- Carry a roadside emergency kit
- Download offline maps or carry paper backups
These steps are especially important when travelling in regions with limited cell service.
Fuel Planning Matters More Than You Think
Many of these destinations involve long stretches without gas stations.
Running low on fuel in a remote area can quickly turn an adventure into a problem.
Helpful habits include:
- Refuelling earlier than you think you need to
- Tracking fuel stops ahead of time
- Avoiding unnecessary idling
Fuel planning is just as important as route planning on remote Canadian roads.
Why 2026 Is The Year To Go Off The Beaten Path
More Canadians are choosing road trips that prioritize experience over checklists.
Lesser-known destinations offer:
- Reduced traffic and stress
- More authentic local encounters
- Better opportunities to explore at your own pace
As travel patterns continue to shift, 2026 is an ideal year to rediscover parts of Canada that don’t make every top-10 list.
Let The Adventure Begin
Canada’s most memorable road trips aren’t always the ones everyone talks about.
Sometimes, they’re found on quiet highways, coastal backroads, and prairie roads that stretch to the horizon.
By choosing lesser-known destinations in 2026, you’ll experience the country in a more personal, rewarding way – one kilometre at a time.
With the right preparation and an open itinerary, these off-the-beaten-path routes could become your most memorable road trips yet.
