Cross-Canada Road Trip: My Solo Journey from Coast to Coast
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- Aug 4
- 14 min read
Updated: Oct 20
As a retired Canadian woman, my heart has always been drawn to travel, whether it's exploring vibrant international cities or discovering the hidden gems right here at home. But there's a special kind of magic that happens when I hit the open road, especially since 2020, when Wanda, my beloved Sprinter cargo van, was transformed into the most comfortable campervan a traveller could ask for. We've shared more than 200,000 kilometres, from multiple regional adventures to epic cross-country treks, and each journey has deepened my appreciation for this incredible country we call Canada.
Now, Wanda and I are about to begin another ambitious adventure: a solo summer road trip from the Pacific shores of Vancouver all the way to the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia, and then back again! This series of articles will chronicle every kilometre, every sunrise, and every unexpected delight. But this isn't just a travelogue; it's a heartfelt invitation. My hope is that by sharing my experiences, I can ignite a spark in every Canadian and visitor to Canada to truly explore the vastness and beauty of my backyard.
Whether you dream of one epic, coast-to-coast journey or prefer to tackle our diverse regions one trip at a time, the call of the Canadian road is undeniable. Trust me, with the right Solo Road Trip Essentials and by embracing the freedom that comes with Van Life Essentials, you'll be well-equipped. And for my fellow women contemplating such an adventure, remember my Tips for a Solo Female Road Trip – the empowerment and freedom are truly unparalleled. It's time to discover your own Canada.
Table of Contents
Cross-Canada Road Trip: The Journey East
As Wanda and I point our compass eastward, we'll cross the provinces, each with its unique blend of history, geography, and cultural identity. From the rugged mountains of British Columbia to the maritime charm of Nova Scotia, this section will offer a brief glimpse into the incredible diversity that awaits on a cross-Canada road trip, highlighting what makes each stop along the Trans-Canada Highway so special.
The Cross-Canada Road Trip series will include itineraries, tips, reviews and stories gathered from all my Canadian travels and will link to detailed articles on particular points of interest. I hope that readers will be able to create their ideal itinerary that suits their time, interests, and budget.
The main regions of Canada are the West Coast (British Columbia), the Rockies (eastern BC and western Alberta), the Prairies (eastern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba), and Central Canada (Ontario and Quebec). The Maritimes include New Brunswick, PEI, and Nova Scotia, but when Newfoundland and Labrador are included in the group, the region is referred to as Atlantic Canada. The North refers to the Territories of Yukon, Northwest, and Nunavut (not included in this series).
British Columbia (BC): Mountains, Coast, and Ancient Roots
Our journey begins in British Columbia, Canada's westernmost province, a place where the dramatic meeting of mountains and ocean creates a landscape of unparalleled beauty. To the west, the rugged Pacific coastline stretches for thousands of kilometres, deeply carved by fjords and dotted with countless islands. Inland, the Coast Mountains give way to a diverse interior, ranging from dry, semi-arid valleys to lush boreal forests, and even a slice of prairie in the Peace River Country in the northeast. The mystical Haida Gwaii archipelago, home of the Haida people, is a pristine wilderness rich in Haida heritage.
This land has been home to diverse First Nations for millennia, with rich cultures like the Coast Salish, Haida, and Kwakwakaʼwakw shaping its earliest history. European arrival in the late 18th century brought fur traders and, later, the transformative gold rushes of the mid-1800s, leading to rapid development and, eventually, the completion of the Trans-Canada Highway in the 1960s.
Starting our cross-country adventure from Vancouver, the bustling heart of BC, feels like standing at the edge of a grand beginning. If you're looking to explore more of this stunning province, be sure to check out my BC Road Trip Itineraries and my Ultimate Guide to Tourism Regions of BC – there's so much to discover just within its borders!
Alberta: Rockies, Prairies, and Badlands
Leaving the coastal grandeur, we roll into Alberta, a province where the majestic Canadian Rockies dramatically meet the vast, sweeping prairies. While often considered a prairie province, Alberta's western edge is defined by the towering peaks of Banff and Jasper National Parks, offering breathtaking mountain scenery. Eastward, the landscape flattens into rich agricultural lands, but also holds the unique, lunar-like terrain of the Canadian Badlands, home to dinosaur fossils and hoodoos.
Alberta was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, daughter of Queen Victoria, but its history stretches back thousands of years as the traditional lands of numerous Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfoot and Cree. The fur trade played a significant role in early European contact, and it was here, in Banff, that Canada's national parks system began in 1885. The road trip through Alberta is a majestic transition, from alpine grandeur to endless golden fields.
Saskatchewan: The Land of Living Skies
Next, we enter Saskatchewan, affectionately known as "The Land of Living Skies" – a name that perfectly captures its expansive horizons and dramatic cloudscapes. While often stereotyped as flat, this heartland province holds surprising geographical diversity. Beyond the vast, fertile prairies, half of Saskatchewan is covered in boreal forests, dotted with over 100,000 lakes and rivers. It's also home to unique features like the Athabasca Sand Dunes, the most northerly active sand dunes in the world.
Historically, Saskatchewan is the traditional territory of numerous Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Dakota, Dene, and Saulteaux, whose rich heritage is woven into the province's fabric. Its pioneer history is also evident in charming small towns and agricultural communities.
Manitoba: Prairie Gateway and Northern Wilderness
Continuing eastward, we arrive in Manitoba, a province that truly straddles the boundary between the Canadian Prairies and Central Canada. Its geography is defined by the remnants of ancient glacial Lake Agassiz, which left behind fertile lowlands and three massive lakes, including Lake Winnipeg, one of the world's largest inland freshwater bodies. To the north and east, the ancient Canadian Shield dominates, characterized by rocky terrain, dense forests, and countless rivers, eventually leading to a saltwater coastline on Hudson Bay.
Manitoba is the historic homeland of the Red River Métis, and its lands have been occupied by Indigenous peoples like the Anishinaabe and Cree for thousands of years. The province's name is derived from an Ojibwe word related to "Manitou," or the Great Spirit. Driving through Manitoba offers a fascinating transition from the open prairie to the beginnings of the vast boreal forest, hinting at the true northern wilderness beyond.
Ontario: Great Lakes, Vast Forests, and Urban Hubs
Our journey then brings us into Ontario, Canada's second-largest province by land area, a region of immense geographical and historical significance. It's famously bordered by the vast Great Lakes to the south, which hold a staggering one-fifth of the world's fresh surface water. Northern Ontario is dominated by the rugged, lake-filled expanse of the Canadian Shield, characterized by ancient rocks and dense forests, while Southern Ontario boasts fertile lowlands.
This land has been inhabited for over 12,000 years by Algonquian and Iroquoian-speaking Indigenous peoples. European settlement, primarily French and British, began in the 1600s, leading to the arrival of United Empire Loyalists after the American Revolution and the eventual split from Quebec in 1791, forming Upper Canada. A road trip through Ontario means crossing immense distances, from the deep wilderness and pristine lakes of the north to the bustling, multicultural urban hubs like Toronto and Ottawa in the south.
Quebec: La Belle Province, History, and Francophone Culture
Crossing into Quebec, we enter "La Belle Province," a place where history and a distinct Francophone culture come alive. As Canada's largest province, Quebec's geography is incredibly diverse, dominated by the St. Lawrence River, which serves as a vital artery. To the south, the Appalachian Mountains offer scenic beauty, while the vast Canadian Shield covers much of the north. Unique features, such as the stunning Saguenay Fjord, carve through the landscape.
Quebec is the cradle of New France, with a rich Indigenous heritage preceding European contact. French colonization began early, with the establishment of Acadia. Although it later fell under British rule, Quebec has fiercely maintained its unique language, traditions, and distinct cultural identity.
New Brunswick: Fundy Tides and Acadian Shores
Leaving Quebec, we enter New Brunswick, a province that is part of the Appalachian region and profoundly shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic. Its geography is primarily defined by the watershed of the Bay of Fundy, home to the world's highest tides, which create dramatic coastal landscapes and unique ecosystems. The province is heavily forested, with rolling hills in its central and eastern parts.
New Brunswick's history is rich with the presence of the Mi'kmaq, Maliseet, and Passamaquoddy Indigenous peoples, alongside the enduring legacy of French Acadian settlement. It was separated from Nova Scotia in 1784 and holds the distinction of being Canada's only officially bilingual province, where French and English cultures intertwine. A road trip along its coasts offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy's dramatic tides and a deep dive into its rich Acadian history.
Prince Edward Island (PEI): The Gentle Island, Cradle of Confederation
From New Brunswick, a short drive across the impressive Confederation Bridge brings us to Prince Edward Island, often called "The Gentle Island." As Canada's smallest province, PEI is a charming, crescent-shaped island nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Its landscape is characterized by rolling pastoral lands, vibrant red sandstone cliffs, and endless sandy beaches – you're truly never more than 16 kilometres from the ocean here!
This island is the traditional land of the Mi'kmaq people, who called it "Abegweit," meaning "land cradled on the waves." The French colonized it as Île Saint-Jean before it was ceded to the British. Famously, PEI hosted the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, a pivotal meeting that laid the groundwork for Canadian Confederation, earning it the nickname "Cradle of Confederation." For those looking to explore the Maritimes, my Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary offers a great guide to this charming region, including PEI.
Nova Scotia: Ocean Playground and Historic East Coast
This year's final eastern destination is Nova Scotia, the "Ocean Playground" province. Connected to the mainland by the narrow Isthmus of Chignecto, Nova Scotia is a peninsula extending into the Atlantic, with the large Cape Breton Island forming its eastern bulk. Its geography is a mosaic of numerous hills, low mountain ranges (part of the Appalachians), lush river valleys, and a varied coastline ranging from rugged cliffs to broad sandy beaches. The Bras d'Or Lake, a large saltwater inland sea on Cape Breton, is a unique feature.
For centuries, the Mi'kmaq people were the sole inhabitants before European explorers arrived. The province's name, meaning "New Scotland" in Latin, reflects brief Scottish claims, and its history is also marked by significant Black Loyalist settlements and a strong Gaelic culture, particularly on Cape Breton. A road trip through Nova Scotia is steeped in maritime history, offering stunning coastal drives and a deep connection to Canada's East Coast heritage.
Newfoundland and Labrador: The Rock and Beyond
Previous road trips led to the easternmost part of the country: Newfoundland and Labrador. The island of Newfoundland, often referred to as "The Rock," is a land of rugged, dramatic coastline, where icebergs drift by in the spring and puffins nest on rocky cliffs. The mainland portion, Labrador, is a vast, wild expanse of pristine wilderness. This province's history is truly ancient, with evidence of Viking settlements at L'Anse aux Meadows over 1,000 years ago.
It's the traditional territory of Indigenous peoples, such as the Innu and Inuit, and a place with a deep-rooted history of European settlement, including fishing and seafaring. Newfoundland and Labrador joined Canada in 1949, a pivotal moment in its story. Reaching this eastern edge of the continent marks the symbolic end of our eastward journey, where the Trans-Canada Highway comes to an end. It’s a land of breathtaking scenery, unique culture, and a warmth that is second to none.
Preparing for Your Own Canadian Adventure
Embarking on a cross-Canada road trip, whether it's a multi-month epic or a series of regional explorations, requires some planning, but the rewards far outweigh the effort. Getting your vehicle ready, packing wisely, and adopting the right mindset are key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Practicalities and Mindset
Before you even think about hitting the highway, consider these practical considerations, as they can make all the difference. For those new to the open road or seeking a refresher, my Summer Road Trip Tips are packed with advice on everything from vehicle checks to route planning. And speaking of staying energized on those long stretches, don't forget the importance of good fuel for yourself – my guide to Healthy Travel Snacks will keep you well-fed and ready for adventure. If Wanda inspires you but don't yet have your own campervan, you might find my insights on RV and Campervan Rentals in Metro Vancouver helpful for getting started on your vanlife dreams. Beyond the logistics, cultivating a flexible and curious mindset is perhaps the most important preparation of all.
Traffic Laws Across Canada
Canada's traffic laws are a blend of federal and provincial regulations, with most day-to-day driving rules being set at the provincial level. While many laws are consistent nationwide, such as the use of seatbelts, the prohibition of distracted driving, and the requirement to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights, drivers should be aware of key differences when travelling across the country. A universal rule is that all provinces and territories mandate a valid driver's license and insurance, and most permit a right turn on a red light after a full stop, a notable exception being the Island of Montreal, where it is generally prohibited.
The interpretation of a flashing green light varies provincially; in most provinces, it signifies an advanced left turn, but in British Columbia and the Yukon, it indicates a pedestrian-activated crosswalk.
Other unique laws exist across the country, though some are more obscure. For example, Quebec prohibits drivers from using a private parking lot to bypass a red light, and it is illegal to honk your horn unnecessarily. In British Columbia, "coasting" downhill in neutral is illegal.
Driver courtesy is also highly variable and Canadians will offer many different opinions as to which city has the worst drivers, but generally, drivers are more aggressive in the bigger cities. Maritimers rarely seem to rush and will give way to pedestrians (even if you just paused at a corner to look at a building across the street!)
How Much Time is Needed?
Canada is a vast country. A straight-line drive following the Trans-Canada Highway will take a minimum of 75 hours, one way. That does not include construction delays, ferries, detours, explorations, meals, sleep, or even stopping for fuel! If you decided to drive non-stop for eight hours a day, it would take nineteen days to make an exhausting round-trip where you would spend most of your time looking at a highway view over a steering wheel.
To truly appreciate this epic trip, plan for several stops on travel days and several days in the location(s) where you will make your overnight stops and hubs for exploration. The shortest time to complete this journey should be no less than six weeks; however, a longer duration will provide you with many more opportunities. My first cross-Canada road trip was 10 weeks. My most recent was 8 weeks.
How Much Will A Cross-Canada Road Trip Cost?
Budgeting for a cross-Canada road trip is challenging, as the budget will depend on traveller choices. Accommodations, fuel, activities, and food costs vary greatly. Travellers choosing luxury hotels, gourmet meals, and expensive tours will require a significantly larger budget than those who opt for camping, self-catered meals, and seek affordable or free activities.
Because I have Wanda, I save significantly on accommodations. I can choose to park overnight at rest stops, on public lands, and in retail parking lots for free. Campsites are significantly less expensive than even budget hotels, but if you require extra services such as electricity, water, and sewer hook-ups, the cost will be higher than for a non-serviced site. I tend to pay for a campsite once or twice every fortnight. I am also fortunate to have friends and family along the route, where I can park for a couple of days while visiting. Averaged out over my most recent trip, I spent less than $10 per day.
I have an excellent set-up for cooking with Wanda. I have a fridge, an induction hub, a butane stove and a camp oven. I can load up on groceries and make my meals. I make my morning coffee. I'm a light eater and rarely require more than one meal and periodic snacks per day. I enjoy exploring the local food specialties and treats, and treat myself to a restaurant meal a couple of times a week. I will often buy myself an ice cream or snack during my urban exploration days. I didn't keep track of my snack and treat spending, but my grocery and restaurant costs totalled approximately $25 per day.
Fuel costs are my most significant expense. Wanda is a large and heavy vehicle that drinks diesel fuel. Diesel prices are 5 to 25 cents more expensive per litre than regular fuel. Fuel is cheapest in Alberta and most expensive in Quebec. I was filling my tank every 2-3 days at an average cost of $100.
Travellers whose itinerary includes Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland will need to budget for ferry and toll costs. As of August 01, 2025, these costs in Atlantic Canada have been cut in half. A typical one-way vehicle fare between Vancouver and Vancouver Island costs about $75, but there are fare-saver deals available on the BC Ferries website. There are two options for crossing to Prince Edward Island: a ferry from Nova Scotia for $43 or the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick for $20.
The ferry fares between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia will depend on whether you travel to Port-Aux-Basque (ideal for travellers wanting to explore Gros Morne National Park) or Argentia (for those planning to do most of their exploration in St. John's). The Port-Aux-Basque fare is $57.12, and the longer journey to Argentia costs $121.81.
It's also a good idea to allocate some of your budget for vehicle maintenance and unexpected issues that may arise along the way. Your vehicle will likely require at least one oil change, possibly a repair or two. I have yet to go on a road trip without needing to visit a mechanic at some point... new tires in Haida Gwaii, solar panel reattachment in Drumheller, windshield chip repair in Toronto, and multiple engine light warnings for fairly minor issues.
Why Do A Cross-Canada Road Trip?
So, why embark on a cross-Canada road trip? It's more than just ticking off provinces on a map; it's your opportunity to truly connect with the soul of this nation.
This journey is your chance to move beyond the static images on postcards and experience Canada's diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and complex histories firsthand. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air in Alberta, feeling the vastness of the prairie skies in Saskatchewan, or being charmed by the unique blend of French and English heritage in New Brunswick. You'll witness the dramatic shifts in scenery, hear different accents, and savour distinct local flavours as you cover thousands of kilometres.
Beyond the sheer beauty, a cross-Canada trip fosters a profound sense of discovery and connection with the roots, history, and diversity of this incredible country. You'll learn about yourself, your resilience, and your capacity for awe. It's an experience that cultivates a deep sense of belonging and patriotic pride.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead (and the Blog Series to Come)
I hope this introduction has sparked your wanderlust. This article is just the beginning; in the coming weeks and months, I'll be sharing detailed stories, stunning photos, and practical insights from every leg of my incredible solo cross-Canada summer road trip. Get ready for tales of unexpected encounters, breathtaking vistas, and the quiet joys of life on the open road.
So, whether you're dreaming of a cross-country epic or a series of regional adventures, I urge you to start planning your own Canadian road trip. The vastness, beauty, and diversity of our nation await exploration, and I promise you, it will be an unforgettable experience.
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This is quite the summer road trip! What an incredibly diverse set of landscapes. Montmorency Falls is stunning - the next time I'm in Montreal, I'll have to try to head up to Quebec City and check it out. I've always wanted to go to Newfoundland in the fall for the foliage and seafood! ITs great to know how much time it takes - I agree, the longer the better, but it's impressive you did this in 8 & 10 weeks.
I love nothing more than coming up with a good itinerary so I bet this was super fun to plan. And such an epic trip. Looking forward to following along and learning a bit more about the provinces I haven't yet been to. The East past Quebec is unknown to me, and the more I hear the more I want to explore more of this beautiful big country. I think I'm gonna need more time off work though to really do it right
I really enjoyed reading this! I tend to internalize my plans because they always change (both for good and bad reasons), but I also believe sometimes it's important to show your mindset for "how it started vs how it ended", as we all tend to go through a learning experience when seeing a project through from start to finish. I liked that you mentioned the traffic laws in Canada, and I had no idea that even traffic lights are so starkly different from one province to another, and also what laws are more federalized.
YEEEEEESSSSS I am so ready to return virtually to Canada and come along on another road trip of yours. This sounds and feels so epic, I have so much respect for you doing this. What an adventure! Saskatchewan and Alberta are the parts I look forward to the most.
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗰. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝘆 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘁𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗮 𝗦𝗰𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗮 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗪𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮. 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲. 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱.
#𝗳𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲 🥖🪽