These Epic Drives are the Best Scenic Routes Near the US/Canada Border

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This past year, I set off on a six-month journey across the Northern US and lower Canada with my dog, Theo. We covered miles upon miles of stunning scenic routes near the US/Canada border, all by car.

There’s nothing quite like the freedom to stop at any roadside attraction that catches your eye and the peace you feel bypassing the airport.

As an expert road-tripper who has personally navigated these roads first-hand, I’ve compiled this collection of spectacular North American routes and can vouch for each one.

So buckle up and join me (and Theo!) as we explore the best scenic routes along the border between the US and Canada, starting with a classic road trip between Buffalo and Toronto!

A girl walking on a grassy path in Toronto.

1. Buffalo, New York to Toronto, Ontario

As you cross the border from Buffalo, your first stop is the city of Niagara Falls. The majestic Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side is one of the most beautiful places near the Canadian border and an essential photo stop.

From there, venture onto Queen Elizabeth Way, which will take you from Niagara to downtown Toronto in just 90 minutes if traffic is on your side.

But I always tell people to make a day of it and stop by Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s such a charming town brimming with preserved 19th-century colonial architecture and views of Lake Ontario.

Also, this is really close to the Niagara Wine Trail. Some vineyards are less than 10 minutes from the border! Just make sure you have a designated driver!

2. Seattle to Whistler

Jumping to the other side of North America, the 4.5-hour drive from Seattle to Whistler is another one of the most scenic areas of the border.

This route covers a distance of 350km (217 miles) and takes you through the Blaine/Surrey border crossing, where you can treat yourself to some delectable Drayton Harbor Oysters in Blaine and stretch your legs at Peace Arch State Park.

From there, it only takes about 2 hours to get from the U.S. Border to Whistler.

This section follows the Sea-to-Sky Highway—officially known as BC-99—a picturesque lifeline connecting North Vancouver to Whistler.

As if driving alongside stunning coastal views isn’t enough, there’s also an opportunity for a pit stop at Squamish Sea to Sky Gondola. The panoramic aerial views are the main attraction, but you can also immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the Spirit Trail.

colorful street murals in Montreal, Quebec

3. Boston to Eastern Townships and Montreal

Spanning approximately 480km (300 miles), the 5-hour drive from Boston to Montreal presents a stunning blend of urban coastlines and rural landscapes that stand out as one of the most beautiful scenic drives near the US/Canada border.

Despite the option of a quick 1.5-hour flight, the stunning drive along I-89 and I-93 makes every second worth it.

This journey provides an opportunity to visit charming towns such as New London in New Hampshire or Montpelier in Vermont, each packed with local character and beauty.

Then, once you cross the US/Canadian border, I recommend spending a day or two meandering through the Eastern Townships before hitting the road again.

In less than an hour, you’ll be in Montreal, a city that feels more European than Canadian due to its rich French-speaking culture.

View of Transfer Beach park and shore, taken from the town of Ladysmith in Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

4. International Selkirk Loop

The International Selkirk Loop is a breathtaking 450km (280 miles) route that spans the Selkirk Mountains of Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia.

As North America’s only international scenic byway, this extraordinary route straddles the US/Canada border, offering a panorama of the area’s natural beauty.

The loop is just an hour from Spokane, Washington, and it’s a sanctuary for people who love the outdoors. There are numerous national forests, wildlife refuges, provincial parks, scenic rivers, and alpine lakes!

The loop even hosts unique attractions like the world’s only floating green in Coeur d’Alene and white-water rafting on the St. Joe River.

Oh, and don’t skip Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge! It’s not quite as well known as the National Parks nearby, but it’s equally impressive.

a car driving along the road near Kooteney National Park in Canada

5. Montana to Banff National Park, Alberta

This scenic drive is close to the International Selkirk Loop but takes you through some of the area’s world-famous destinations. You can start the road trip in either Bozeman or Missoula and head north to the Banff National Park in Alberta.

Your first (and only) stop in the US should be Glacier National Park, which has some of the most dramatic scenery in Montana. It’s an excellent precursor for what to expect from the journey.

Then, you’ll continue north, cruising on BC-93.

Small mountain towns dot your path. Whether winter sports, waterfalls, or mountain trails pique your interest, you will surely find some worthy pit stops in Cranbrook, Fernie, Kimberly, or Radium Hot Springs.

As you journey onward, you’ll run into Kootenay National Park and finally reach Banff National Park.

If you want to continue north, the Icefields Parkway connecting Lake Louise to Jasper National Park is renowned as one of the most scenic roads in the world! Bow Lake and the Columbia Ice Fields are incredible!

6. Sault Ste Marie Road Trips

At the northernmost part of the I-75 in Michigan, you’ll find the Historic Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge.

This structure gracefully arches across the St. Marys River, uniting two nations and two cities with the same name – Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario (known as the “Twin Saults”).

The drive between Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay is beautiful, even without stepping off the highway, but I encourage you to make a stop or two.

Driving along the shoreline of Lake Superior on Curley Lewis Memorial Highway reveals stunning views that guide you to the peaceful sanctuary of Seney National Wildlife Refuge and the majestic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Lake Superior Provincial Park and Pukaskwa National Park are some of the most picturesque areas in eastern Canada.

Further into your journey (about one hour from Sault Ste Marie) is Tahquamenon Falls State Park, named after Michigan’s largest waterfall.

The best time to take this road trip is during the vibrant colors of autumn, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can start in Sault Ste Marie and embark on the Lake Superior Circle Tour. This route circumnavigates the world’s largest freshwater lake across Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota in the US and Northern Ontario in Canada.

Quebec city in winter with a castle in the background.

7. Portland, Maine to Quebec City, Quebec

The drive from Portland, Maine, to Quebec City, Quebec, is an absolute must for anyone with a taste for lobster and scenic beauty.

This 5-hour US/Canada road trip allows you to soak in the stunning landscapes on the East Coast and introduces you to the charming European vibe of Quebec City.

While traveling along the St. Lawrence River towards Baie-Saint Paul in Charlevoix, you’ll have endless options for walks through the countryside, delicious cheese shops, art galleries, and other tranquil experiences.

Also, your journey wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Montmorency Falls, which stands even higher than Niagara Falls by 30m (99 feet)!

Once you get to Quebec City, wrap up your final day of the road trip with some afternoon tea at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. This experience perfectly encapsulates this unforgettable route near the US/Canada border.

A beach with rocks at Fundy National Park.

8. New England to Fundy National Park

Your thrilling US-Canada road trip from New England to Fundy National Park officially kicks off from Maine.

I would start in Maine, but no matter where you begin in New England, you’ll want to drive along I-95 until you get to Bangor, Maine. Then, take State Route 9 to the Canadian Border.

The first place you’ll reach is St. Andrews (a.k.a. Andrews By The Sea), followed by Saint John, and eventually you’ll reach Fundy National Park!

However, I’d encourage you to continue past the National Park to Hopewell Rocks near Moncton, where the world’s highest tides dramatically shift by up to 14m (46 feet) daily. Visitors can kayak here during high tide or hike along the ocean floor at low tide.

If you take this road trip, be mindful of the 1-hour time change as you cross into New Brunswick from Maine.

Final Thoughts: Scenic Routes Near US-Canada Border

I know from experience that planning the perfect road trip can be daunting. There are so many routes, and you can’t do them all in one summer (well, at least I couldn’t!)

But having traveled extensively along the US/Canada border myself, I assure you that these routes are absolutely worth your time and the price of gas.

If you’re just looking for something short (1-2 days), I’d recommend the drive from Buffalo to Toronto or the journey from Seattle to Whistler.

But if you’re up for something a little more adventurous, then the International Selkirk Loop or the road trips around Sault Ste Marie are breathtaking!

Also, before you go, check out the most thrilling outdoor adventures near the US/Canada border area. I’m sure a few will fit onto your road trip itinerary!

Canada Travel Planning Guide

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100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)

📲 Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

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✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.

🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.