Canada ranked 4th best outdoor travel destination in the world

A new ranking puts Canada in fourth place as one of the best outdoor travel destinations in the world.

Canada was ranked fourth, with a score of 45 out of 100, for its vast wilderness, strong conservation efforts, and diverse adventure opportunities, according to The Global Outdoor Destination Index from U.S. outdoor apparel company, KÜHL.

“Canada’s vast wilderness and commitment to conservation make it a global leader in outdoor adventure,” said Oded Gross from KÜHL.

“Whether it’s a local or international visitor, the country’s incredible variety of landscapes and activities offers something for every adventurer. With holiday season on the go, Canada’s high ranking highlights its growing reputation as a must-visit destination for explorers seeking both thrilling adventure and serene nature.”

Over 12 per cent of Canada’s land protected and the country boasts 11 UNESCO Natural World Heritage sites.

“From the glacier-fed lakes of Banff and Jasper to the boreal forests and Arctic plains, Canada provides outdoor enthusiasts with unparalleled natural beauty,” a press release from the company stated.

Adventure opportunities include more than 1,280 documented outdoor activities—from ice climbing in British Columbia to polar bear tracking near Hudson Bay.

“Canada offers experiences that push the boundaries of nature and geography,” KÜHL said.

Infrastructure and safety are key strengths. Robust trail systems, well-managed national parks, multi-language services, and reliable transport options make even the most remote regions accessible and safe for travellers, the release stated.

To create the index, KÜHL analyzed 183 countries using 12 key metrics across four core categories: adventure opportunities, landscape richness, nature preservation, and comfort and peace.

The study looked at the density of outdoor activities, ecosystem diversity, the extent of protected natural areas, peace index scores, and climate conditions.

Australia came out as number one excelling across preservation, climate and activity variety.