Spring in Canada: Best Places to Visit and Things to Do [Local Guide]

Let’s check out the best things to do during spring in Canada!

Spring is the season of rebirth, a time when people spring back to life and nature spring to life again.

The winter was long and hard but now it’s spring – which means we can finally see the ground again once all the snow melts.

Many people assume that the spring season in Canada is just more winter, so they don’t bother to visit. But it’s actually a really lovely time to come to Canada.

If you’re planning on visiting Canada in spring, you’ll love this complete seasonal guide!

I love this Canadian spring tour!

When is spring in Canada?

Canadian spring season is basically the same as spring in the United States (March to May), but spring in some parts of Canada can be different than others depending on the year.

The weather doesn’t always cooperate, meaning that there can still be snow in April in some areas.

Let’s look at the temperatures each month in central Canada

Mid-March

Spring officially begins on March 20th, according to the calendars and the spring equinox. But most Canadians will tell you that spring includes the entirety of March.

Typically, at the beginning of the month, you’ll find snow on the ground. By the end, it’s usually just remnants where the plows have pushed snow too high for it to melt.

Temperatures range from 2°C to -7°C, with less precipitation. The days are still mostly dark.

April

April is the first real month of spring, in my opinion.

April is when you leave the freezing temps behind and get an average of 11°C to 0°C for the month.

The saying “April showers bring May flowers” is very true in Canada. We get a lot of rainfall in April, and sometimes in May.

May

May is the first happy month of spring. It’s when the rain starts to dwindle so we can actually enjoy the newly green grass and the budding flowers.

If you’re wondering when is spring best for tourists, May is your month!

Visit for spring flowers and warming weather.

By May the sun is also up for more of the day.

Temperatures average 19°C to 8°C.

Mid-June

Spring ends on June 21st, when the summer solstice happens.

However, many Canadians classify June as a summer month, since they start their summer holidays at this time.

Spring is the warmest spring month, with temperatures averaging 23°C to 13°C.

Spring in Canada Temperatures by Region

Canada is a huge country, so spring temperatures aren’t the same in each province.

To help you understand what spring Canada weather you’ll be getting, I’m breaking down the climate in each section of the country.

Atlantic Canada

You can expect spring weather in Atlantic Canada to be quite mild. Thanks to the Atlantic Coast, this is not an area of extremes like in the Prairies.

March brings the end of winter. At the beginning of March, you can still find winter hiking and spring skiing opportunities. But by the end, it’s mostly mushy snow on the side of sidewalks.

April is the peak precipitation month. The area is known for its British rains, so pack an umbrella!

By May, the rain will calm and you’ll be able to enjoy your time exploring Halifax and Moncton.

Throughout spring in Atlantic Canada, you will need rain gear and a light jacket. Temperatures tend to hover between 9°C and 0°C.

Central Canada

Central Canada in this case refers to Quebec and Ontario.

In these regions, spring temperatures are cooler than in some other provinces. Montreal and Toronto hold onto their snow with a death grip, so it melts slower than in other areas.

But one day in May, it suddenly bursts to double digits and flowers burst forth!

Once the weather warms, you’ll be able to enjoy more time outside and in parks.

Expect low temperatures in March that may drop below zero. By May, you’ll see double digits.

The Prairies

The Prairies are located in the middle of Canada, where winter storms are at their harshest.

Here, spring is the quietest month. Sometimes it slips by so fast, you only get spring temperatures for a week!

Expect temperatures to hover around 0°C for a few months before you start seeing spring temperatures like elsewhere in Canada.

By late April you may be able to spot some signs of spring, but it depends on how severe the winter was.

Western Canada

Spring comes early on the West Coast.

British Columbia is known for its mild winters, where you can go skiing and surfing in the same day!

Spring is no different, offering some of the warmest temperatures in the country. You’ll likely find temperatures in the low single digits in March, but by May, you’ll be in the high double digits.

Mountains will still have snow until late April.

Spring in Vancouver has temperatures ranging from 40-60°F – which is way better than Toronto!

Northern Canada

Spring in Northern Canada marks the return of the sun, after the long dark days of winter.

Spring comes in quick succession, with only a few weeks between snowy weather and the summer heat.

By May, you’ll start seeing the effects of the Midnight Sun, with over 14 hours of sunlight per day!

Spring Festivals and Holidays in Canada

Canada’s springtime love is in full bloom when spring holidays roll around.

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th. The Irish heritage in Newfoundland and New Brunswick make it a spring holiday for everyone!

People wear green and drink excessively to celebrate Irish ancestors across the country.

Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Tuesday

This springtime holiday goes by different names, but is celebrated with pancakes on the first day before Lent begins.

It varies annually.

It’s not a federal holiday, but it’s a good reason to eat more pancakes and maple syrup!

Good Friday and Easter

In springtime, Easter falls between March and April.

Easter marks the end of Lent, a springtime holiday where you give something up for 40 days.

Canadians get the Friday before Easter and Easter Monday off of work and school.

Canada Tulip Festival

Each spring, Canada gets a new crop of tulips. The best place to see them in all their glory is Ottawa’s Dow’s Lake area of the Canada Tulip Festival.

It’s actually the world’s largest tulip festival, with bulbs being shipped in from the Netherlands by the Dutch royal family annually.

They are at their best in late May.

Find out more about the tulip festival here.

Victoria Day

On Victoria Day, Canadians celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday on the last Monday in May.

It used to be limited to her actual birthday, May 24th. But when she passed away and Canada was still a British colony, it became a federal holiday that we’ve continued to uphold.

Most people call this holiday “May 2-4” for the date.

You’ll get the day off work and be able to see lots of fireworks launched in the evenings.

Other Events

• Victoria Craft Beer Week (April in Victoria, BC)
• Canadian Music Week (May or June in Toronto, Ontario)
• Elmira Maple Syrup Festival (April in Elmira, Ontario)
• National Patriots Day (Last Monday in May in Quebec)
• Mating Season for Red Sided Garter Snakes (May in Narcisse Manitoba)

13 Reasons to Visit Canada in Spring: Epic Things to Do

1. Spring Hiking in Banff National Park

While Canada sees a ton of choice hiking year-round, there’s perhaps no better time of year to hit the trails than in spring.

It’s during this vastly underrated time of year that the crowds are at a minimum, striking the perfect balance between the holiday tourists having already dissipated and the summer masses yet to arrive. This, in combination with springtime blooms and peak wildlife spotting, means you’re bound to have a lot of close encounters with the raw Canadian wilderness that most can only hope for!

It’s in Banff, the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountain region, where some of the best spring hiking opportunities can be found. As you’ll be hiking over a myriad of varying terrain and alongside some pretty intimidating local wildlife, ensure that you’re appropriately equipped with the Canadian hiking essentials, such as:

• trekking poles
• high-traction footwear
• a hearty water supply
• a modular and layerable wardrobe
• bear repellent

Consider the family-friendly Johnston Canyon Trail, and follow its metal catwalks (that are suspended out of the canyon wall, no less) to an array of glacial waterfalls and coldwater pools, or make the scenic climb up to one of Lake Louise’s signature tea houses for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding trek amidst alpine peaks.

Looking for something even more adventurous than those?

Try your hand at the difficult Sulphur Mountain Trail or another one of the best hikes in Banff for a memorable and picturesque experience you won’t soon forget. 

Submitted by Natasha Karcz from Planes, Trains and Karcz

2. Sugar Shack in Quebec

Spring in Canada isn’t fully experienced without a visit to a sugar shack.

With more than 85% of the world’s maple syrup production, Canada is the perfect place to visit a sugar shack. Plus, tasting maple syrup, and its derivated products such as tire d’érable (maple taffy or lollipops), is always good!

Quebec is one of the best places to visit a sugar shack and have the experience of the sugar shack tradition. Most of the Canadian maple syrup production is made in the province of Quebec.

And it all happens in the spring, around March and April.

Dates vary from year to year as the maple water runs from the maple tree when temperatures during the days are above 0°C, but below 0°C at night.

In Quebec City, there are many options for visiting a sugar shack. But the Érablière du Lac Beauport is a great sugar shack to visit. They offer a full traditional brunch including crêpes, ham, peas soup, meat pie, and loads of maple syrup. And of course tire d’érable tasting!

They also have music, dance, and pony rides.

If time is limited, there is a good option in downtown Quebec City where maple syrup and other maple products can be tasted.

La Petite Cabane à Sucre, located in Old Quebec, in the heart of Quartier Petit Champlain, sells maple syrup candy and tire d’érable.

The advantage of this little corner store is that it’s open year-round, even outside the maple sugaring time. But of course, it’s less traditional.

Submitted by Emilie of Love Life Abroad

I recommend this tour

3. Ontario Maple Syrup Festivals

One of the best things to do in Canada in the spring is to attend a maple syrup festival!

Maple syrup is synonymous with Canada and is even called liquid gold.

There are a host of maple syrup festivals in Ontario.

These festivals take place at farms, sugar shacks, and within the downtown core of many small towns across the province.

While you can purchase maple syrup all year long, maple syrup festivals generally take place during spring in Canada. This is because they coincide with when local farms harvest the syrup from maple trees.

With so many different maple syrup festivals taking place, some have unique activities and attractions. However, most festivals have a list of consistent events that take place.

A few must-do activities at a maple syrup festive are enjoying a pancake breakfast with local syrup, watching the production of syrup, and purchasing local syrup to have as a souvenir.

A few of the best maple syrup festivals in Ontario take place in Paris, Kingston, Huntsville, and the Terra Cotta Conservation Area.

However, the largest one-day maple syrup festival in the world takes place in the small town of Elmira.

Most maple syrup festivals take place from the middle of March through to the middle of April.

For the festivals that take place at farms, be sure to dress appropriately. Spring in Canada brings varying weather and can often be wet.

So, if you’re planning to visit a farm for a festival be sure to bring a rain jacket and rubber boots!

Submitted by Stephanie Mayo of The World As I See It

4. Cherry Blossoms in Niagara

One of the best ways to experience spring in Canada is to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms, and one of the best spots to see them is in the Niagara Region in Ontario! 

The Niagara Region, spanning from Niagara Falls to the edge of wine country in Grimsby, is Ontario’s largest fruit-growing region, and each spring over 1.5 million fruit trees flaunt their blossoms with pink and white hues! 

Cherry blossoms in Niagara bloom from mid to late April through early May and can last anywhere from 6-14 days, weather dependent.

Drive down the Niagara Parkway in Niagara-on-the-Lake for endless cherry orchards, tour through Lincoln’s wine region (and stop at a winery or two!), visit Kingbridge Park in Niagara Falls for a picnic, wander through Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens or stroll through Lakeview Cemetery in Thorold for some peaceful scenic views and endless photo opportunities.

Fortunately for those visiting Niagara during spring, there is not only the opportunity to witness these gorgeous cherry blossoms. There’s also a variety of other fruit trees with varying bloom periods, such as nectarines, peaches, plums, apples, pears, and apricots.

Whether it’s taking a drive down back roads in Niagara-on-the-Lake or picnicking in Niagara Falls amongst the blossoms, there are numerous spots to enjoy witnessing these buds.

Submitted by Sarah of In Search of Sarah

5. Waterfalls in Alberta

Did you know that Alberta boasts several breathtaking waterfalls that only require a short walk?

You’ll find incredible natural beauty without an intense hike. While waiting for the snow to melt in the mountains, plan a visit to one of several waterfalls that Alberta has to offer.

For example, journey to southern Alberta to see Lundbreck Falls in the Crowsnest Pass area.

Afterward, head over to Waterton Lakes National Park for Cameron Falls right in town.

If you’re looking for a longer Waterton walk, the 2-km trail to Blakiston Falls has two viewing platforms.

Just south of Calgary, Sheep River Falls always makes a nice outing, with picnic tables and only a short walk to the rushing falls.

In the Rockies, both Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park and Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park are exceptionally scenic and popular trails. Prepare to explore multiple waterfalls throughout these short jaunts.

Lastly, head toward Nordegg to see Ram Falls and Crescent Falls in the area. Both visits are worthwhile, and you could even plan an overnight at Ram Falls Provincial Park.

Choose a waterfall that suits you and plan your visit. Pack warm clothing for cool spring temperatures. And always do your research before heading out. Visiting waterfalls in the spring is the perfect way to beat the summer crowds and enjoy being outside in Alberta!

Submitted by Thomas of Out and Across

I love this tour of Jasper’s waterfalls

6. Whale Watching Tours in Victoria

Located at the south end of Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia with a rich heritage and incredible nature.

The city is compact with attractions and its geographic location offers a warmer temperature and pleasant weather that makes it a wonderful getaway not only to tourists but also to the locals.

There are many things to see and do in Victoria, and one excursion that tourists must do in spring is going whale watching.

The peak season to watch whales in Victoria, BC begins in April, and runs until November. The area has a great number of humpback whales, together with minkes, grey whales, and if you are lucky, killer whales!

There are a number of guided tours with experienced guides and crew that offer an informative and lively introduction to the environment and the way of life of these fascinating creatures, as well as answering any pressing questions that you may have during the tour.

The chances of seeing a whale are usually high, but even if you don’t get to meet the whales, the incredible views of the Oak Bay shorelines from the cruise, and the sight of sea lions, otters, and harbor seals lazing on the rocks will make your trip worthwhile. 

Submitted by Kenny of Knycx Journeying

I recommend this tour in Victoria

7. Spring Skiing in Whistler

When you think of one of the best places in the world to downhill ski or snowboard, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada should always come to mind.

It has consistently won international accolades and awards for the best ski resort in the world.

Whistler Blackcomb is made up of two massive mountains that are interconnected with each other through multiple gondolas and ski lifts.

Each mountain is approximately 7,300 feet or (2,200 metres) high. Of that, 8,171 acres (3,307 hectares) are skiable terrain. Together, there are over 200 ski runs, and 36 lifts and gondolas.

In other words, you could ski every day for weeks and still not ski or snowboard every allowable surface!

Without a doubt, one of the best times to ski or snowboard in Whistler is springtime, in particular, March up to mid-April.

There are several reasons for this. 

First, the days are much longer than earlier in the season when darkness falls as early as 5 pm.

Second, the weather is much warmer than earlier in the season, but still cold enough for good snow conditions.

In fact, as you enter April, you may even have warm enough afternoons to shed a winter layer, unzip your jacket, and enjoy the sun.

Third, nothing is better than apres-ski on a patio at the base of the mountain.

There is nothing quite as exhilarating after an amazing day on the mountain, than to sit down, feel the warmth of the sun, have a pint of beer, and watch the rest of the skiers and snowboarders finish their last run of the day.

Submitted by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Note: Ski resorts open in the winter months in Canada depending on the weather and close when it gets too warm. These times vary annually.

8. Cycle at Stanley Park in British Columbia

Stanley Park is to Vancouver what Central Park is to NYC.

Located in between the North Shore and Downtown Vancouver, and accessible via Lions Gate Bridge, this park is a haven for those who love the outdoors. 

During spring, one of the fun things to do in Vancouver is to rent a bike to visit Stanley Park. At this time of the year, the weather is mild with lots of sunny days. In contrary to summer, it is the perfect temperature to go on a bike ride without sweating after five minutes of riding your bike. 

As Stanley Park is a 405-hectare park, a bike is much more convenient to get around and see everything you need to.

On your way, you can stop at Third beach for a picnic.

From this beach, you will have amazing views on the North Shore and the Burrard Inlet.

You can also ride all the way to the Siwash Rock for more amazing views or follow the seawall to Brockton Lighthouse. 

Another highlight of Stanley Park during spring is the cherry blossom trees.

There are about 40,000 cherry trees in Vancouver with either pink or white blooms. Some of those can be found in the park near the rose garden and the Japanese Canadian War Memorial.

Early April is the best time to catch the cherry blossoms!

Submitted by Mary of Be Right Back by Mary

I love this cycling tour of Vancouver’s Stanley Park

9. Rocky Mountaineer Train Journey

The Rocky Mountaineer Train Tour is the perfect adventure to see western Canada.

The month of May is the ideal time to experience this tour.

You can marvel at the mountain and lake views from the comfort of your train seat. There will most likely be snow in certain areas which provides snowy scenes without the frigid temperatures.

The Rocky Mountaineer tour starts in Vancouver.

The one-week trip includes overnight hotel stops in Kamloops, Jasper, and Banff.

Each location has several fun activities to enjoy. The longest train journey is the one-day, 9-hour ride from Vancouver to Kamloops. 

While in Jasper, be sure to sign up for the tour of Jasper National Park.

You will visit the beautiful Maligne and Medicine Lakes and the breathtaking Athabasca Falls.

The Glacier Ice Explorer tour will take you to the Columbia Icefield Glacier where you will climb aboard a huge snow bus that takes you up close to the glacier.

You should walk around and take many photos of the amazing scenery.

You can also enjoy the Glacier Glass Floor Skywalk.

From Jasper to Banff, you’ll travel by motorcoach along the impressive Icefields Parkway and stop at the beautiful Bow Lake.

During your time in Banff National Park, you should visit Emerald and Moraine lakes.

Other activities not to miss in this area include a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain and a trip to Lake Minnewanka.

You will love visiting this part of Canada in spring!

Submitted by Jan of JanAdventures

10. Soak in Canadian Hot Springs

Looking to thaw after a cold, chilly winter season?

A trip to Hot Springs Cove can help speed things up!

Hot Springs Cove is a remote and natural thermal pool, just outside of Tofino on Vancouver Island.

Located in the isolated Maquinna Provincial Park and Protected Area, Hot Springs Cove is only accessible by boat or floatplane. There are no roads that lead to it.

The easiest way to plan a visit here is by booking a day tour from Tofino, BC.

Clayoquot Wild, Jamie’s Whaling Station, and Ocean Outfitters are the most common businesses to find available tours. Tours range from $150-$175 per person for a group trip and can go up significantly to book private tours.

The spring season is a great time to visit because there will be fewer tours and crowds coming to Hot Springs Cove. The busy season is summer and late fall. So springtime visitors will be able to enjoy the pools with a little more solitude. 

The boat ride to the spring will take about 1-1.5 hours.

After docking, guests can expect to hike 1.5 kilometers each way on a boardwalk to reach the pools.

Take care on the boards, especially after heavy rain, because they can be quite slippery.

Guests are asked to bring their own lunch, water, towel, and bathing suit.

The boat driver gives a callback time, which gives guests about 2-3 hours to enjoy lunch and soak in the springs.

After soaking, enjoy the solitude of walking back through the temperate rainforest.

Submitted by Emily of The Mandagies

11. Kelowna Vineyard Trip

Kelowna is one of the larger cities within British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley and is one of the best wine regions in Canada.

About a 4.5-hour drive from Vancouver, the city of Kelowna is a great place to base yourself for a weekend or day trip to the nearby vineyards.

There are over 40 vineyards within a short distance from the city centre. You’ll enjoy amazing views of mountains, hillsides, and lakes as you visit them. 

Though summer is the most popular time to visit the vineyards in Kelowna, spring is even better!

Not only are the wineries quieter, meaning no waiting until you can get your tasting and more opportunities to learn about the wines, but spring is a great season to try some of the new wines coming out that year.

You could be amongst the first to try white wines such as rieslings or gewürztraminers, and you’ll get there before they’ve sold out!

Plus, the weather is just warm enough that you can enjoy a wine tasting on the terrace of vineyard gardens, without it being too warm that you need the A/C inside.

Plan for late spring to do your Kelowna vineyard weekend to increase the chances of warmer temperatures. 

Submitted by Hannah of That Adventurer Blog

12. Spot Wild Bears in the Great Bear Rainforest

Spring is the best time to visit the Great Bear Rainforest–home to a range of wildlife including grizzly bears, orcas, wolves, and salmon.

Located in British Columbia, Canada, this woodland is one of the largest stretches of temperate rainforest on the planet.

You’ll be able to spot all these animals in spring–and more; spring is baby-making season for the bears and orcas!

Other wildlife to spot during spring in Canada:

• Puffins
• Garter snakes
• Beluga whales
• Baby deer
• Beavers

13. Golf 18 Holes

With our Scottish roots, golf is a big deal in Canada.

Whether you’re looking to make the Master’s, or just want a relaxing day on the course, spring is a great time to tee off in Canada.

Enjoy spring’s pleasant weather and beautiful greenery on the course.

The best courses for spring golf include:

• The oceanside course of Fairwinds Golf Club on Vancouver Island
• Banff Springs Golf Club
• Royal Montreal Golf Club
• Whistler Golf Club

Best Places to Visit in Canada in Spring

Iceberg Alley, Newfoundland

Iceberg Alley is an area in Newfoundland known for the icebergs that float into the harbour annually.

These bergs are massive and a huge tourist attraction for the region.

Book an iceberg tour to see these massive floes in May, when the largest bergs from winter float close to shore.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is an amazing place to spend spring break in Canada.

Once the snow melts by April, you can enjoy the Public Gardens, cycle the temperate city, walk along the shores of the Atlantic at the Public Gardens, and eat on the outdoor patios that open on the boardwalk.

Don’t forget to try some fresh lobster during the lobster season in May!

Check out more amazing things to do in Halifax.

I love this tour of Halifax

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is amazing in spring. The city is waking up from the cold of winter.

The best thing to do is to visit the floating spa, Bota Bota. You can relax in an outdoor hot pool or get a massage at this boat spa.

Or head inside to the many museums in the city. May 26 is Museum Day, where you can access the museums for free. The Biodome and Science Centre are fun for all ages!

I love this cycling tour around Montreal

Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Mont Tremblant is a resort town in Quebec.

The spring season is a great time to visit the resort and take advantage of spring skiing. The best part about spring skiing in Mont Tremblant is that you get to ski at night, when the lifts stay open until 1 AM.

If you don’t ski, check out the spring hiking in the myriad of paths through the Laurentian Mountains.

I visited in March and found it just slightly too cold for the longer trails, but the shorter trails through city streets were very enjoyable! If I’d had snowshoes, I could have tackled them all easily.

I recommend this Mont Tremblant lake cruise

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is the perfect city break in spring.

Head to Toronto’s High Park to enjoy the cherry blossoms when they bloom in May. These cherry trees will make you feel like you’re in Tokyo without leaving Canada!

The warmer temperatures make it easy to get around the city and explore all of the fun things to do in Toronto.

Soar above Toronto on this tour

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is a wonderful spring destination for historians who want to explore the local museums. Flower lovers will want to visit in May to see the tulips throughout the city.

This is my favourite tour of Ottawa

Niagara on the Lake, Ontario

Niagara on the Lake is a lovely spring escape outside of Toronto.

Take in the spring weather and enjoy local wine tours or take yourself back in time at Fort Henry.

I recommend this tour

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls is the perfect spring break destination for anyone who loves thrill rides.

Check out the Niagara SkyWheel, which offers amazing views of both American and Horseshoe Falls at 250 feet in the air!

Golfers will enjoy The Legends Golf Course while spring hikers can take their pick from any of the trails in Niagara Parks.

I recommend this tour

Calgary, Alberta

Late spring is the perfect time to visit the Prairies.

The warmer spring temperatures make it easy to get outside and enjoy what Calgary has to offer, from visiting the zoo to taking a brewery tour.

Banff, Alberta

Banff is perfect for spring hiking season. Be sure to check out the trails in the Rockies and then relax in a hot pool after your trek!

I love this tour of Banff’s lakes and waterfalls

Vancouver Island, BC

Visit Vancouver Island in spring to be surrounded by spring flowers, including daffodils and red-budded trees.

Enjoy spring hiking along the coast or take a whale watching tour for thrilling views of orcas, humpbacks, and other whales.

I love this whale watching tour in Victoria

Okanagan Valley, BC

Vancouver Island is one of the best spring destinations in Canada.

While you’re there, check out the Okanagan Valley for an amazing wine tour.

What to Pack for Canada in the spring?

Pack clothes for spring weather – it may be rainy, windy, or sunny depending on where you’re going!

Pack a rain jacket and spring clothes. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around town and sturdy hiking boots.

Bring your swimsuit if you plan to visit a hot spring or want to go surfing. If you do go into the Pacific Ocean or the Atlantic Ocean, be sure to have a wetsuit!

I recommend packing layers so you aren’t caught unawares if it’s hotter or colder than you expect (let’s hope for hotter!).

If you’re travelling in May, you’re safe to expect a snow-free trip for city breaks. But hiking may lead you to some cooler patches.

Travel Tips for Visiting Canada in Spring

Off-Season Prices (Except Long Weekend)

Spring isn’t a popular travel time in Canada.

Winter has the allure of winter sports, summer has the warmth, and fall has amazing foliage. But spring is kind of a border season.

It’s great for tourists looking for easier bookings and lower prices.

The only time when prices rise is Victoria Day long weekend.

You will see an uptick in flight prices in March for March Break for students. But this doesn’t generally affect tourism prices inside of Canada.

Dress for the Weather, Not the Season

You must pack for spring weather, but don’t assume that spring means pleasant!

It can be hot, cold, rainy – you never know.

Even the Great Lakes aren’t always spring-like in temperature, so if you are planning to go swimming or boating on them bring your wetsuit.

Be sure to pack based on your weather app and not based on some blogger assuring you that May is hot if it says it’s going to be 5°C when you’re there.

Spring Road Damage

Be prepared for spring road damage when travelling by car.

Spring in Canada means thawing roads, which sometimes leads to spring flooding or potholes from the shifting ice.

Some Attractions Don’t Open Until Summer

If you’re visiting for spring, be mindful that some attractions (especially in the mountains) don’t open until summer.

And some attractions will close in late spring. Most ski resorts don’t stay open past April.

Spring Comes Late in the Canadian Rockies

The Rocky Mountains are not spring-like in April. They’re still cold and snowy at this time of year.

So be sure to pack for spring weather but also consider bringing your snow gear if you plan on skiing or snowboarding.

Wrap Up: Why You Should Come to Canada During Spring Season

Spring is a great time to visit Canada because the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The spring season also offers lower prices for travel and accommodations, making it an affordable time to visit.

Keep in mind that spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack clothes for all types of weather. And be prepared for some road damage caused by spring thawing.

This guide to spring in Canada is full of awesome activities that guarantee you will have a wonderful time.

Whether you decide to go whale watching, hiking, cycling, or flower spotting, you’ll love the spring season in Canada!

I love this Canadian spring tour!

FAQs Spring in Canada

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