Known for its academic excellence, affordable programs and inviting culture, Canada welcomes more than 150,000 international students every year. Growing numbers of students from Asia, Europe, Latin America, Australia and the United States are coming to Canada and discovering the benefits of a Canadian education.

The benefits of studying in Canada also found outside the classroom – in the great outdoors. Canada is a scenic country with towering mountains, crystal clear lakes and majestic trees, the perfect setting for you to participate in some amazing outdoor adventures. Snowboarding, rock climbing and mountain biking are just a few of the fun and exhilarating recreational activities that will teach you not only about nature and the environment but also about the importance of facing challenges head on and overcoming obstacles to achieve success.

Thanks to its diverse geography and abundance of natural settings, Canada is the perfect place for you to try something new. So when you’re looking for something to do outside of the classroom, go outside! You might just be surprised by what you learn about yourself in the process.  Read on to find out more about recreational activities you can try.

Winter Sports
In the winter, Canada can offer you something that you may not have experienced before, snow and ice. But winter months are far from desolate. Canadians have adapted to their snowy climate by getting involved in all types of winter sports and activities. It is the ideal time for you to try something that you may not be able to do easily in your home country. Canada boasts ski hills and resorts of all shapes and sizes. Whether you want to learn to downhill ski or are looking for a Nordic ski adventure or a place to practice your ollies, railslides and McTwists, you will find a mountain resort to fit your needs. Many of these resorts also offer other winter activities including snowshoeing, sleigh rides and ice-skating. Or you can simply have a snowball fight, build a snowman or make snow angels. It doesn’t matter what you do as long as you get out there.

But Canada is not just snow and ice. Far from it! Summer in Canada means warm weather and lots of sunshine, the perfect combination for any outdoor activity. The only problem will be trying to decide what to do.

Hiking
The hiking in Canada is phenomenal. It is one of the easiest recreational activities you can participate in; all you need for an afternoon stroll is a friend, some decent shoes, some water and a snack. There are trails everywhere, offering both afternoon escapes and overnight hikes to secluded glacial lakes and mountain meadows. Hiking is the easiest way to get in touch with Canadian nature and wildlife.

Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is extremely popular throughout the country.  There are mountain bike trails in every province for any skill level. Bikes and equipment can easily be rented, making biking an ideal activity for those who do not have a bicycle of their own.

Climbing
Squamish, British Columbia offers some of the best mountain climbing in North America, or for that matter, the world. Whether you are a beginner or have been climbing for years, there are literally hundreds of climbs to test your ability. But British Columbia is not the only place to climb. There are crags and routes in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec. Equipment can often be rented from outdoor stores. If the weather is not suitable for climbing outside you can always climb indoors at a climbing gym. You might make friends who can show you some local climbing areas.

Water Sports
Believe it or not the surf is up in Canada. Vancouver Island and many Atlantic Canada beaches have excellent surf conditions. You can even catch a wave on one of the Great Lakes! Tofino, on the West coast of Vancouver Island, and Halifax, Nova Scotia are both home to a number of surf shops. Employees will be happy to rent you equipment and answer any of your questions. Many of these shops even provide lessons. 

Other ocean sports include sea kayaking and sailing but these sports aren’t confined to the ocean. Canada is home to thousands of lakes, some big enough to host their own sailing regattas. They also host kayaks, canoes and houseboats. Boating is one of the best ways to spend a sunny afternoon.  

Camping
A visit to Canada would not be complete without a camping trip. Nothing beats roasting marshmallows and then snuggling into a sleeping bag. Not only does Canada have an amazing National Parks system that offers trails, scenic tours and campgrounds, every Canadian province and territory has its own extensive park system with a wide variety of parks and campgrounds. Many outdoor stores sell and rent camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags and coolers, making a weekend trip with friends effortless.

So do what so many Canadians do and spend a weekend or your holiday combining a few of these activities. Spend the day hiking or climbing or surfing and then fall asleep under the stars. It is the perfect way to experience Canada.