My wife and I plan on visiting Prince Edward Island this summer. We will be coming up from Minnesota. I was hoping the folks from Canada might offer some suggestions for sights to see, parks to stay at, etc. We plan on purchasing a national park pass, if non-citizens can. Any preferences regarding Hwy. 11 or 101 for the first leg of our journey: drivability, scenic views, interesting small towns ( I love visiting them; always looking for small bakeries and non-chain diners) and historic sites?
Hi Farmboy, I am from New Brunswick, Fundy National Park or Kouchibouguac National Park are two really good place to visit, I got to both park every year. There is also a member of this forum called PEIslander that is from PEI. When do you plan to be in New Brunswick maybe we could plan a weekend at either Fundy or Kouchibouguac Park at the same time than you? Hopewell Rocks is not too far away from Fundy National Park and is a good place to visit also. I also have a seasonal campground site in Shediac you could come visit me there if you want! Let me know when you are coming and maybe we could bring this conversation private and plan something.
If you plan on crossing the border at Detroit, there is plenty of great camping along the St Lawrence Seaway. There are also a several historical places along the way concerning the War of 1812 and Confederation. The version of 1812 experienced in Canada will be slightly different mind you. We believe that we won.
Sandbanks Provincial Park is beautiful: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sandbanks
St Lawrence Parks are beautiful as well with several sites along the water : http://www.stlawrenceparks.com/ The St Lawrence Parks will give you quick driving access to Ottawa.
If you are taking the northern route (through Thunder Bay, Hwy 11 or 101), you will have to stay at Algonquin Park. That park alone can keep you in camping bliss for months. There is also some camping at Gatineau Park, getting you even closer to Ottawa and there is much to see/visit/experience around the park without going to the city. The park is surrounded by small shops, bakeries and antiques.
I haven't been camping up in North Bay, Sudbury or Thunder Bay in over 20 years. I don't remember much except for the vast uninhabited spaces.