With the latest concerning news from the US and the threat of tariffs from Donald Trump, many Canadians are choosing to explore and appreciate the beauty within their own borders.
When you think of Canada, deserts probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind.
But scattered across the country are regions with desert-like landscapes, offering unique ecosystems, striking scenery, and unexpected adventures.
Under, a much-needed guide to Canada’s most fascinating arid regions.
Osoyoos-ørkenen (Britisk Columbia)
Det Osoyoos-ørkenen, located in British Columbia’s South Okanagan Valley, is Canada’s most well-known desert-like area. Technically a semi-arid shrub-steppe ecosystem, it experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Key Features: Home to the endangered Antelope-brush shrub-steppe, this region supports rare plant and animal species found nowhere else in Canada.
Hvad skal man gøre: Visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre to learn about Indigenous culture and the local ecosystem. Explore nearby vineyards and orchards for wine-tasting and fresh produce.
Why Visit: It’s a rare opportunity to experience desert-like conditions in Canada while enjoying world-class wineries and stunning views.
Athabasca sandklitter (Saskatchewan)
Det Athabasca sandklitter, located along Lake Athabasca in northern Saskatchewan, are Canada’s largest active sand dunes, stretching over 100 kilometer. These dunes were formed by glacial meltwaters thousands of years ago.
Key Features: The dunes are home to several rare plant species that exist only in this region, making it an ecological treasure.
Hvad skal man gøre: This remote area is accessible only by floatplane or boat, so it’s perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and pristine landscapes.
Why Visit: It’s one of Canada’s most unique natural wonders—ideal for nature lovers and those looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Carcross ørken (Yukon)
Kendt som smallest desert in the world, the Carcross Desert spans just 600 hektar (1.5 kvadrat miles). It consists of ancient sand dunes left behind by a glacial lake that dried up thousands of years ago.
Key Features: På trods af sin størrelse, it boasts unique plant species adapted to sandy soils and dry conditions.
Hvad skal man gøre: Try sandboarding on the dunes, hike nearby trails, or simply enjoy the surreal landscape that feels out of place in the Yukon’s rugged wilderness.
Why Visit: It’s a quirky, Instagram-worthy destination that showcases Canada’s diversity in landscapes.
Canadian Badlands (Alberta)
Det Canadian Badlands, located in southern Alberta, feature dramatic landscapes with hoodoos (tall rock formations), kløfter, and arid conditions that resemble a desert environment.
Key Features: This region is famous for its rich fossil deposits, including dinosaur remains found near Drumheller. It also has sparse vegetation and striking geological formations shaped by erosion over millions of years.
Hvad skal man gøre: Visit Dinosaur Provincial Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), hike through hoodoo-filled canyons, or explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum for a deep dive into paleontology.
Why Visit: It’s a must-see for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering both natural beauty and prehistoric intrigue.
Why Canada’s “Deserts” Are Worth Exploring
While Canada may not have any true deserts (defined by less than 250 mm of annual precipitation), these regions offer desert-like experiences with unique ecosystems and activities you won’t find elsewhere in the country.
Så, if you’re seeking an alternative to US deserts without leaving the border, Canada’s desert-like regions promise an adventure worth taking.
The Osoyoos Desert in British Columbia is home to the endangered antelope-brush ecosystem, while the Athabasca Sand Dunes in Saskatchewan boast rare plant species found nowhere else.
The Carcross Desert in Yukon, known as the world’s smallest desert, offers a surreal landscape perfect for sandboarding and hiking.
Til sidst, Alberta’s Canadian Badlands are famous for their rich fossil deposits and dramatic hoodoo formations.
Related
Nordamerika Sandboarding kort
Din nr. 1 kilde til information om verden af sandsport og ørkeneventyrrejser. Vores artikler er resultatet af omfattende forskning, personlig erfaring, og vidensdeling inden for det globale sandboarding-fællesskab.