Canada is a country with vast expanses of natural beauty. In its 13 provinces and territories, divided into 39 natural regions, it has 36 National Parks that are situated in a variety of ecosystems. One of the oldest parks in the nation is Banff, which was established in 1885 and is located in Alberta, where it is settled amongst mountains and lakes. Mountainous terrain can be found throughout much of the Canadian park system. Meanwhile, Wapusk National Park is an example of a park that features much flatter terrain. This area of frozen tundra is difficult to access, but visitors embrace it because polar bears can so commonly be seen and photographed there.

Polar bears are among Canadas most famous animal residents, but along with its diversity of ecosystems, Canada is home to many different types of creatures. Riding Mountain National Park is home to a herd of bison, along with many moose, elk, wolves and black bears, which are more abundant in this park than almost any other place on the continent. Point Pelee National Park, located on Lake Erie, is notable because it is a stop favored by so many migratory birds, with species like the Coopers Hawk, Blackpoll Warbler and Painted Bunting attracting birders from around the world. With more than 360 species of birds calling Point Pelee home for some portion of the year, it is quite a unique natural aviary.

Most parks allow visitors close proximity to their animal residents, with ample opportunities for photography. Interaction beyond that is generally discouraged, especially when it comes to species that are threatened or that are dangerous to humans. Predators such as bears, wolves and cougars are best seen from a distance, while herbivores like moose and elk are large enough that they pose a trampling threat. However, these animals will rarely approach humans, so anyone who comes to Canada armed with a proactive approach to wildlife safety should have no difficulty in avoiding confrontations.