From sea to sea to sea, Canada possesses some of the most breathtaking vistas of the North, and none quite so famous as Albertas Banff National Park the crown jewel of which is the picturesque Lake Louise. The glacial lakes distinctive turquoise colour originates from the rock flour that flows into the lake from the melt-water of the glaciers that overlook it. At once serene and moving, Lake Louise is surrounded by the natural alpine wonders of Canadas oldest national park; there is no shortage of mountainous terrain to trek, beautiful crystalline lakes to canoe (notably, the nearby Lake Moraine, equally as stunning), and majestic forests to explore: a drive down the scenic Icefields Parkway leads you to the neighbouring Jasper National Park, another Canadian beauty. The best part? Canadians dont believe in "off-season": come winter, the mountains will be capped with snow and there will be all the more sights to see in the true north.
20. Antelope Canyon, USA
Antelope Canyon was forged by erosion of Navajo Sandstone through monsoons and flash flooding, which smoothed the hard edges in the canyons to form the distinctive "flowing" of the rock. Entry is restricted to authorised guided tours, but the otherworldly view of both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons is worth it. When sunlight floods the slot canyon at the right time of day, the colourful, swirling rock formations coupled with tour guides playing traditional Navajo flute music let you believe, momentarily, that the canyon holds some hidden magic.
Canadian student. Spends probably an unhealthy amount of time enthusing over musicals, unpopular TV shows, and Harry Potter. Main life goal: to become fluent in Elvish.
