A Guide to Canadian Geography and Landscapes
In this guide, we will introduce you to the geographical and landscape features of Canada.
We’ll explore some of the major geographic regions and landmarks, as well as discuss specific examples of how the landscapes has shaped Canadian culture.
The Canadian Landscape:
Canada is the second largest country in the world and is divided into six distinct geographic regions: The Atlantic provinces, Quebec, Ontario, the Prairie Provinces, British Columbia, and the North. Each region is unique with its own physical features including mountains, rivers, lakes, forests and tundra.
The Atlantic Provinces are located on Canada’s east coast along the Atlantic Ocean. These provinces have rugged landscapes and a long coastline characterized by steep cliffs, deep valleys, bays and estuaries. The most famous natural feature of this region is Gros Morne National Park which has large fjords carved out by glaciers during the last ice age.
Quebec is the largest province in Canada and is located in the southeastern part of the country. It is known for its rolling hills, large rivers and vast boreal forests. The region is home to iconic landmarks such as Mont-Tremblant National Park and the Laurentian Mountains.
Ontario is located in east-central Canada and has a variety of landscapes ranging from boreal forests to rocky polar desert. It also contains two of Canada’s largest lakes, Lake Ontario and Lake Huron. Cottage country is popular among tourists who flock to the region for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails and recreational activities.
The Prairie Provinces are located west of Ontario and consists of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and parts of the Northwest Territories. This region is characterized by flat plains, rolling hills, and wooded areas. The Rocky Mountains are the most famous feature of this region and they provide a stunning backdrop to the spectacular Canadian Rockies National Park.
British Columbia is located on Canada’s west coast and contains some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes including rainforests, rugged mountains, grasslands and sandy beaches. The province also has several national parks such as Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, Glacier National Park and Yoho National Park.
The Geography:
Located in North America, Canada is divided into provinces and territories stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Canada is the world’s second-largest country in total area, with an expansive landmass of nearly 10 million square kilometers. With its vast geography, Canada provides a variety of scenery ranging from mountains and glaciers to lakes and forests.
Landmarks:
Canada has many famous landmarks that play an important role in Canadian culture. The Rocky Mountains span 3 provinces and offer some of the most spectacular views in all of North America. Niagara Falls, locate on the border between Ontario and New York State. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world and attracts millions of tourists every year. Other major landmarks include Old Quebec City (the only walled city north of Mexico), Peggy’s Cove lighthouse (a picturesque fishing village in Nova Scotia), and the CN Tower (the world’s tallest free-standing structure).
Impact of Landscape on Canadian Culture:
The landscape of Canada has played an important role in shaping the culture of the country. The Rocky Mountains have been a major source of recreation for Canadians, with skiing, hiking, and camping being popular activities. Additionally, many small towns located near rivers or lakes are home to recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. Finally, Indigenous peoples have traditionally lived off the land and many continue to rely on traditional methods for sustenance. By recognizing the importance of its diverse landscapes, Canada has been able to incorporate these features into its national identity.
Conclusion:
Canada is a vast and diverse nation, with its expansive geography providing both physical and cultural benefits. By understanding the major geographic regions and landmarks in Canada, it’s easy to see how the landscapes of the country have helped shape Canadian culture. From the Rocky Mountains to Niagara Falls, there is something for everyone to appreciate in this beautiful land. Whether you are an avid hiker or a casual tourist, look below at our list of famous landmarks and attractions so that you can experience Canada’s stunning landscape first-hand!