Fantastic fjords of North America
North America is known for many things. Soaring, gaping fjords isn't one of them. For that, most travelers understandably head to Norway, New Zealand or Chile -- all renowned for their glacier-carved "canyons" that outlet into swallowing seas.
But the northern half of this continent has its fair share of majestic cliffs cut by frozen (instead of liquid) water, especially in parts of southern Alaska and Canada. As a bonus, they're more accessible, less traveled, and still rate at least 4.5 out of 5 stars, according to average visitor reviews on Google and TripAdvisor. Browse the slideshow above for a scenic journey!
Howe Sound, British Columbia
North America's southernmost fjord is also its most accessible. Halfway between cosmopolitan Vancouver and adventurous Whistler (about an hour's drive to each) rests the city of Squamish, at the tail of the fjord. Between opposing cliffs and more than a dozen islands, visitors come to hike, sail, scuba dive, paddleboard, bike, camp, fish or experience the triangular fjord from one of many flightseeing tours.
Tourists from all over the world come to the so-called "Sea to Sky corridor," primarily for the spectacular scenery and abundant recreation that Howe Sound affords. Notable attractions include the Stawamus Chief hike, Shannon Falls, an 8-minute gondola ride to the top of the fjord, Britannia Mine Museum and either "Sea to Sky" or "Glacier" air tours.
Misty Fjords, Alaska
Arguably the most inaccessible fjord on the continent, the striking Misty Fjords National Monument "drops jaws," according to the 10Best reader's choice awards. John Muir, the "father of American National Parks," likened it to a Yosemite Valley flooded by seawater, due to the near-vertical walls rising 3,000–5,000 feet above sea level.
Due to their remoteness, Misty's colossal granite valleys are best experienced by seaplane from nearby Ketchikan or Juneau tour operators, or by cruise ship. More adventurous travelers can hike or explore by kayak on overnight charter. Either way, visitors are sure to spot black bears, bald eagles, sea lions, harbor seals and killer whales, in addition to giant Sitka spruces, western hemlock and western red cedars.
Kenai Fjords, Alaska
This icy array of fjords sits both in and outside of the titular national park. The harsh and jagged landscape, coupled with its temperate rainforest and imposing fjords, create a one-of-a-kind environment for wildlife, plant life, dozens of glaciers and the largest ice field in the United States. Must-see tours from Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and others depart from neighboring Seward from late spring to mid autumn.
Western Brook Pond, Newfoundland
Canadians call this massive, dramatic and towering inlet of rock and water a "pond." A World Heritage Site, Western Brook Pond is situated on the last, most northern section of the Appalachian Mountains. It became a national park in 1973 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, which helped the freshwater fjord garner global attention.
Whether by boat or challenging hike, there's no wrong way to experience Western Brook. Cascading waterfalls, suspended plateaus, pristine waters, sheer cliffs, timeless wildlife and humbling views are in store for those who do.
Blake Snow is feature writer, technology critic and storyteller. Contact him at blakesnow.com.