Canada in the Summer

Summertime in Canada is truly a delight. However, when traveling it’s still important to know what kind of weather you should be prepared for. In this guide, we’ll give you an overview of what to expect in various regions of the country, and offer tips on what to pack.

After the weather overview, you will find

• Weather details for each month (June, July, August)
• Packing tips for each month (June, July, August)
• Tips for the best places to visit and things to do

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Clothing Essential for Canada’s Summer

Weather Overview

Weather in Canada during the summer ranges from pleasantly warm to downright sizzling, depending on the region. The average high temperatures range from 60°F (16°C) to 80°F (28°C). Most regions in the summer months are fairly dry. The coastal regions receive more rain than the central prairies.

Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect temperature-wise:

Region	Average Temperature	Examples
Southern Canada	70-80°F (21-27°C)	Toronto, Vancouver
Eastern Provinces	60-75°F (16-24°C)	Halifax, St. John’s
Western Provinces	65-75°F (18-24°C)	Calgary, Edmonton
Northern Canada	50-65°F (10-18°C)	Yellowknife, Iqaluit

Warm Weather Regions

Southern Canada, including cities such as Toronto and Vancouver, can experience temperatures reaching 80°F (27°C) or higher during the summer months. The humidity can add to the heat, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.

The warmest city in the summer and year-round is Victoria, B.C. I have found coastal British Columbia to be the most temperate region overall in Canada, but cities in Ontario have the highest summer temperatures.

Cooler Weather Regions

For those who enjoy a milder summer experience, the eastern provinces of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador offer cooler temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (16-24°C). Meanwhile, in the western provinces like Alberta and British Columbia, temperatures can vary between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Rain and Precipitation

Don’t forget that summertime in Canada can bring its share of rainy days. The eastern provinces tend to see more rainfall, with cities like Halifax and St. John’s experiencing frequent showers. In contrast, the western provinces usually have a drier climate, although thunderstorms can pop up from time to time.

The average monthly precipitation for selected cities/areas in Canada during summer:

Thunderstorms

Spells of mixing hot and cold air sometimes cause thunderstorms. The prairies and Maritimes are most prone to stormy skies. Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick get hit by hurricanes during peak season. However, you’ll know well in advance if one is on its way.

Each Atlantic Canadian province has a hurricane protocol. There are plenty of measures taken to keep residents and tourists safe. There’s no reason for you to skip a Maritime vacation for fear of hurricanes.

Likewise, eastern Ontario and the prairies get tornadoes.

Tornado season runs from April to September, but dangerous touchdowns are infrequent. I’ve seen more funnel clouds in these regions than I’ve heard of major twisters. It’s good to be aware of the possibility, but there’s no need to be afraid.

Packing Tips

Depending on the region you’re visiting, you’ll want to pack accordingly:

• Warm Weather Regions: Bring along lightweight, breathable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget a hat to protect yourself from the sun!
• Cooler Weather Regions: You’ll want to pack layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures. Include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• Rainy Regions: A waterproof jacket or poncho is a must, along with an umbrella and shoes that can handle wet conditions.

In all cases, it’s a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your travels.

Mosquitoes

💡 You should know that May to September is mosquito season in Canada. Some regions get it worse than others, but I strongly recommend packing bug spray wherever you go. For reference, Manitoba gets the most mosquitoes and Vancouver Island gets the least.

Canada has its fair share of mosquitoes, but malaria is extremely rare. Getting a malaria shot before your trip isn’t required. Normally, these buzzing biters are more of an annoyance than a danger.

Fun fact: Komarno, Manitoba is the mosquito capital of the country. The name “Komarno” even means “mosquito-infested” in Ukrainian. This might not make it sound like an ideal tourist destination, but the town has embraced its reputation with a mosquito-themed roadside attraction.

A Great Time

Canadian summers offer a little something for everyone, from the hot and humid cities of the south to the cooler, more temperate climates of the eastern and western provinces. Just remember to pack accordingly, and you’ll be ready to embrace the beautiful, diverse weather of Canada’s summer months.

June

June is pretty sunny in Canada all month long. However, early and late climates vary widely.

Spring transitions to summer during this month. While the weather is pleasant, there is a significant temperature difference between late and early June. The average highs range from 61°F (16°C) to 79°F (26°C). Prepare for spring-like weather early in the month or for hot summer weather late in the month.

Morning/Evening vs. Daytime: Morning and evening temperatures are lower than daytime temperatures. It’s a good idea to pack a light sweater, jacket, or cardigan for nights out. If you’re sensitive to the cold, you might even want to pack something thicker since nights can drop to 34°F (1°C), especially in early June.

More tips on clothing and what to pack for June later.

Warmest Places

One of the warmest spots in Canada in June is Kelowna, British Columbia with a temperature range of 51°F (11°C) – 80°F (27°C). It’s an excellent spot for outdoorsy types. Take a hike along Myra Canyon, paddle around Okanagan Lake, or even pet a kangaroo!

Interesting fact: There is a place where it’s even warmer than all the other regions. Windsor, Ontario is technically the hottest city, with average highs from 74-81°F (24-27°C) during June.

Coldest Place

St. John’s, Newfoundland, seems to have the coolest June weather with temps from 55-64°F (13-18°C). Northern places, such as Whitehorse in the Yukon, are cooler than the rest of the south, but still a little warmer at 62-68°F (17-20°C). St. John’s has a vibrant nightlife, beautiful historic sites, and stunning seaside terrain.

The second coolest summer spot in Canada is Saint John, New Brunswick (first is St. John’s Newfoundland) at 46°F (8°C) – 68°F (20°C). Saint John is the only city directly on the coast of the Bay of Fundy, so you can enjoy easy access to this amazing natural site. While you’re there, check out the Saint John City Market, the oldest farmer’s market in Canada.

The average high temperatures in various Canadian cities from early and late June.

• Whitehorse (Yukon): Average highs 62-68°F (17-20°C)
• Vancouver: 65-69°F (18-12°C)
• Banff: 61-67°F (16-20°C)
• Toronto: 68-75°F (20-24°C)
• Montréal: 71-78°F (22-25°C)
• Québec City: 68-76°F (20-25°C)
• Halifax: 61-70°F (16-21°C)

Rain/Precipitation

June isn’t the rainiest month, but you might catch a couple of rainy days. Precipitation varies across the country between as low as 0.5 in (13 mm) to as high as 5.8 in (147 mm). Rarely, early June sees a small amount of snowfall in some areas.

If you see snow on the ground while you’re there, don’t worry: It will melt quickly (as soon as within the day it falls). This should be a non-issue in late June as the temperature increases drastically.

If you’re traveling to British Columbia, Québec, or southern Ontario, minor snowfalls are less likely. If you’re traveling to the Yukon, Northwest Territories, or central prairies, it’s more likely. Remember that these minor snowfalls are uncommon, but they can happen.

In June, the wettest province is British Columbia (BC) and the driest is Nunavut. Here is the average rainfall in each of these locations during June.

• BC: 1 in (27 mm) – 4 in (108 mm)
• Nunavut: 0.4 in (10 mm) – 1.3 in (33 mm)

What To Wear | What To Pack for June

Even though it is already summer in Canada, early mornings and nights get quite cool. However, you won’t need full winter gear, of course.

You should wear a little more than regular summer clothes. Pack your shorts, sunglasses, and T-shirts but don’t leave your sweaters and cardigans at home. Additionally, pack light jackets, sweaters, hoodies, and sturdy walking or hiking shoes.

💡 Don’t confuse heat and sunshine. In Northern regions with the “Midnight Sun,” it stays fairly cool but you should still wear sunscreen. Lower temperatures don’t mean fewer UV rays.

I’ve made this mistake myself. It was pretty cool outside, so I thought I could skip the sunblock. The nasty sunburn I ended up with taught me not to do that again!

T-Shirt Must-Haves

Of course, you’ll also want to protect your skin in warmer Southern Canada. A sunhat and sunglasses are a good idea too. For cooler evenings, pack something you can layer onto your summer clothes, like cardigans or light jackets.

Hiking trails are open, but they can be wet and muddy in early June. Pack some rubber hiking boots to prepare for messy trails.

You need to pack the following for Canada in June:

• Cotton T-shirts and/or tank tops
• Light jackets, sweaters, hoodies, or cardigans
• Sturdy closed-toe walking or hiking shoes
• Warm, moisture-wicking socks
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Sunglasses
• Hats
• Shorts, skirts, or skorts
• Long waterproof pants
• Sleep masks
• Raincoats and an umbrella
• Rubber boots
• Light scarves
• Sundresses (if you wear them)

 

July

Don’t let Canada’s harsh winters fool you: July temperatures get quite warm, and preparing for long days in the sun is necessary.

The weather throughout this month is pleasant with average highs from 68°F (20°C ) to 79°F (26°C). The warmest temperatures are in the southeast, while the north rarely exceeds 68°F (20°C). Typically, it doesn’t rain extensively with averages from 0.7 to 2.8 inches (17-72 mm).

Warmest Places

If you’re looking for a hot summer retreat, Vancouver Island is known for having Mediterranean-like summer weather. The island even has popular beaches and a thriving surfer scene in Tofino. However, this makes it an attractive tourist destination, so July gets busy. Temperatures average between 66 – 77°F (19 – 25°C).

Interesting fact: There is a place where it’s even warmer than in Vancouver Island. Windsor, Ontario is technically the hottest city, with average highs hovering around 82°F (28f°C) in July.

Coldest Place

St. John’s, Newfoundland, boasts the coolest July weather, with temperatures varying from 48 – 66°F (9 – 19°C). Cities in the north, such as Whitehorse in the Yukon, are chillier than much of the south, but still slightly warmer at 68 – 69°F (20 – 21°C). For a refreshing getaway, St. John’s offers an energetic nightlife, captivating historic landmarks, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Please keep in mind that the average high temperature range for a larger area like Yukon varies more, of course. For example, in the whole Yukon territory, it is 57-69°F (14-20°C).

The following list shows the average high temperatures in various Canadian cities between early and late July.

• Whitehorse (Yukon): 68-69°F (20-21°C)
• Vancouver: 69-73°F (21-23°C)
• Banff: 68-72°F (20-22°C)
• Toronto: 76-78°F (24-25°C)
• Montréal: 78-79°F (25-26°C)
• Québec City: 76-78°F (24-25°C)
• Halifax: 70-74°F (21-23°C)

Canada in July is teeming with activity due to hours of sunshine and warm weather. That’s why camping during this month is one of my favorite ways to experience the Canadian summer.

We usually camp in Cathedral Lakes Provincial Park, which has two gorgeous backcountry camping sites and several rental cabins. The average temperature in July is warm but not sweltering hot. It averages around 64 – 73°F (18 – 23°C) during the day and 28 – 39°F (-2 – 4°C) at night.

Rain

On average, the rainfall during this summer month ranges from 0.7 to 2.8 inches (17-72 mm). The coastal regions receive more rain than the central prairies. Typically, many regions in Canada have less rain during July compared to most other months.

However, the rainfall varies between provinces, of course.

The wettest province in Canada is British Columbia (BC), and the driest is Saskatchewan. Be prepared for showers if you’re traveling near the coastline. Although the prairies get less rain, they do get humid. So bring loose clothing to prepare for that.

BC (the wettest) and Saskatchewan (the driest) have these average rainfalls:

• BC: 27 – 40 mm (1 – 1.5 in)
• Saskatchewan: 9 – 16 mm (0.3 – 0.6 in)

There are usually only about 10-15 rainy days all month in July. So, if you’re going for a week, you could luck out and miss those days.

What To Wear | What To Pack for July

The clothing requirements in Canada during this summer month vary by province and time of day. Pack a light jacket and some sweaters if you are traveling to a cooler region. For hot summer days, make sure you have shorts, t-shirts, sunscreen, and a hat.

Early July is the advent of summer and maybe a few degrees cooler than the latter part of the month. Keep this in mind when packing for your trip.

💡 Be aware that regions with cold winters may not have cooler summers. For example, Winnipeg has both extremely cold winters and extremely hot summers. Check your destination’s summer temperature, not just the overall average temperature.

When visiting the northernmost regions of Canada, you need to wear cool-weather clothes. Long pants and light jackets over T-shirts or long sleeves are recommended.

No matter where you are in Canada during the summer, the temperature will drop at night, so be sure to bring a warm sweater and jacket.

T-Shirt Must-Haves

Rain: You’ll also likely encounter rain during your trip, so it’s important to bring a light rain jacket that’s easy to carry around with you. Having a light rain jacket that can be layered over warm clothing is a great idea.

It’s a good idea to pack both warm and cool clothes in most parts of Canada.

When I went on a road trip between Manitoba and Alberta last summer, the temperature varied drastically. I put on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt when I left, but packed shorts and a tank top to change into. I’m glad I did this because I needed it!

Furthermore, the high amount of daylight means more sun exposure than you may be used to, so I recommend bringing sunscreen and a good hat to protect your skin.

You should pack the following for Canada in July:

• Cotton T-shirts
• Long sleeve shirts (sweat-wicking if possible)
• Shorts or skorts
• Long pants that can get wet
• Hiking pants or leggings
• Socks, including warm wool socks
• Light rain Jacket
• Heavy sweater
• Warm jacket
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy walking shoes (ideally waterproof)
• Sleep mask

August

This month, the average high temperature in Canada ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 79°F (26°C). The first week is the height of summer with hot days and the warmest weather. Prepare for cooler temperatures later in the month. The average rainfall is between 1.7 inches (44 mm) and  6.4 inches (163 mm).

However, sometimes, Canada still gets sporadic heat waves in late summer and early fall. Late August temperatures are usually cooler unless you hit one of these brutally hot waves. Typically, late summer heat waves only last three days to a week, but they can get very hot.

For example, Regina, Saskatchewan, hit 95°F (35°C) on September 1st, 2022.

If you’re coming to Canada toward the end of the month, be ready to face cooler temperatures as well as extreme heat. If you hit one of these waves, always carry a water bottle. I would even add ice cubes to my water bottle on days like that. It’s really easy to get dehydrated in temperatures above 90°F (30°C).

Where are the heat waves? Random heat waves can happen anywhere in Canada during the summer. However, you’re most likely to encounter one in Southern Ontario or the prairie provinces. Be prepared wherever you go, but also be aware of the higher likelihood of one in these regions.

The following list shows the average high temperatures in various Canadian cities between early and late August (the first number is early August, and the second one is late August)

• Whitehorse (Yukon): 69°F – 60°F (20°C – 15°C)
• Vancouver: 73°F – 69°F (23°C – 21°C)
• Banff: 72°F – 66°F (22°C – 19°C)
• Toronto: 77°F – 74°F (25°C – 23°C)
• Montréal: 79°F – 74°F (26°C – 23°C)
• Québec City: 78°F – 73°F (25°C – 23°C)
• Halifax: 74°F – 71°F (23°C – 21°C)

Rain

This is a fairly dry month in most of Canada. Most regions are heading into the drier fall season, except for British Columbia (where fall is their wettest season). The average rainfall ranges from 1.7 inches (44 mm) to 6.4 inches (163 mm).

In most regions, there are usually only about three to twelve days of rain in Canada throughout the month. So, you could easily luck out and miss those days. Some areas even have periods of drought in August. You’ll miss the rain there, but the air can get very dry.

There is a drought monitor that predicts the likelihood of drought in any given month. Canadian farmers usually use this tool, but you might find it useful if you want to avoid dry spells.

The wettest province is British Columbia, and the driest is Saskatchewan. For reference, here are their average rainfalls in August.

• BC: 3.5 in (88 mm) – 6.4 in (163 mm)
• Saskatchewan: 1.7 in (44 mm) – 3 in (77 mm)

What to Wear | What to Pack for August

When it’s warm wear t-shirts and shorts or pants or layers for the nights and for cooler regions. Be prepared with a light sweater or jacket. Revealing a lot of skin is tempting, but in case of a heat wave breathable, loose-fitting cool clothing is better for protection.

Nights and mornings are cooler than the day all month, but especially in late August. However, late summer nights are comparatively warmer than early June ones.

Pack a few layers for cooler nights. A light jacket or sweater is probably enough, but this depends on your cold sensitivity. If you find 50-59°F (10-15°C) cold, you’ll want warmer clothing for a Canadian vacation in August.

T-Shirt Must-Haves

Mosquitoes: Between May and September in Canada, it is mosquito season. The bugs are still around in August, so pack your bug spray, especially if you’re going on some outdoor adventures.

The same spray that keeps mosquitoes away will also work against ticks. Canada has two peak tick seasons. The first is from mid-March to mid-May, and the second is from mid-August to November.

Those may be the peak seasons, but they can appear anytime the weather is above 39°F (4°C). You’re most likely to encounter them in heavily wooded areas and tall grass. It’s more of a concern in outdoorsy spots; you’re unlikely to encounter them in urban areas.

💡 When I go hiking during the tick season, I wear long pants and spray bug spray around my ankles. If you’re hiking in a thick bush, wear long sleeves and spray along anywhere there’s an opening (neckline, ends of sleeves, etc.). Go for loose-fitting, light-colored long clothing to beat the heat while covering your skin from ticks.

You should pack the following for Canada in August:

• Cotton t-shirts
• Loose-fitting layers
• Shorts, skirts, or skorts
• Long pants
• Loose-fitting, light-colored long-sleeved shirts
• Sunglasses
• Sunhats
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Water bottles
• Sleep mask
• Sundresses (if you wear them)
• Good walking shoes
• Light jackets or sweaters
• An umbrella (good for the rain or the blazing sun)
• A handheld fan or mister in case it gets very hot and dry

Things To Do / Places To Visit

Nothing beats the summer in Canada. The wildlife tends to be active, the locals are enjoying this season, and travelers from around the world flock to soak in all Canada has to offer.

Canadian Rockies / Banff & Jasper National Park

The parks along the Canadian Rockies are truly mind-blowing when visiting during summertime. There are unlimited activities for the avid lover of the outdoors, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and fishing spots galore.

Banff and Jasper National Parks are extremely accessible. Due to the well-paved roads throughout the park, anyone can get amazing views and visit interesting locations no matter their level of mobility.

There are numerous day hikes off the main road and several provincial campgrounds in the parks. You must book campsites ahead of time, especially in the summer months.

If you enjoy avoiding crowds, my favorite campground in this area is Wabasso Campground in Jasper. It’s a quieter park with gorgeous views and campsites nestled along the stunning Athabasca River.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a charming seaside city with a modern feel. Located in a banana belt region in Canada, it’s a great destination in the summer if you wish to avoid humidity and don’t mind a little rain.

The mountains meet the sea in Vancouver, and there are many picturesque places to walk and enjoy the view. A few of my favorite spots to explore are Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, and Kitsilano Beach.

If urban attractions are more your style, Vancouver has much to offer.  Especially July and August are happening months in this city, so book tickets ahead of time and be prepared to wait in lines occasionally.

Vancouver attractions that you’ll love include:

• The Vancouver Aquarium
• The Museum of Anthropology
• English Bay
• The Museum of Vancouver
• Van Dusen Botanical Garden

Vancouver also serves as a base for outdoor adventures. You can hike Grouse Mountain, home to Grouse Grind, known as “Mother Nature’s StairMaster,” or explore the sea on a whale-watching trip. Visitors also love to walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a walkway that spans a 229 ft. (70 m) river canyon.

Montreal

Canada may be famous for its beautiful landscapes, but Montreal is a cultural treasure that should not be missed. The summer brings an explosion of festivals, concerts, circuses, and excellent cuisine to the second-largest city in Canada.

Foodies will feel at home in Montreal, known worldwide for its eclectic gastronomical offerings. Be sure to check out The Expérience Peel MTL Foodies festival. This exciting collaboration between eight of the city’s top restaurants offers outdoor canopied dining all summer long.

Montreal features exciting and entertaining festivals during the summer months.

This city has a distinctly European feel, so much so that I call it the “poor man’s Europe” in the sense that for Americans, it’s much more affordable to visit than hopping across the pond. It offers an abundance of art and cultural sites to explore and is surrounded by gorgeous countryside ripe for picture taking.

Bay of Fundy

Known for its extreme tide changes, the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia is a gorgeous retreat for solo adventurers and families alike. Summertime is the best time to visit, as you’ll have access to all the exciting outdoor activities this area offers.

Burntcoat Head Park is a must-see spot, with the tides rushing in and out over 160 billion tons of water twice a day. At low tide, you can walk on the ocean floor, where you might see tidepools, fossils, or caves to explore.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can try Tidal Bore Rafting — a great activity for the warm month of July, as you are certain to get wet. Another popular summer adventure is kayaking along the coast near Cape Chignecto Provincial Park.

Families will love taking a geological tour along the rock cliffs to dig for dinosaurs and step back in time to when the Bay of Fundy was a lush rainforest.

Niagara Falls

Summer gives the best chance of seeing Niagara Falls gleam in the bright sunshine. Temperatures can reach as high as 80°F (27°C) during this season. Keep in mind that the summer month is a popular time to visit the falls, but as long as you plan and book your trip well in advance, you won’t have to deal with steep prices or miss out on your chosen excursions.

Taking a day tour of the Falls is the best way to avoid long lines and get the most out of your time there. It can be as simple as going all out with a wine and helicopter tour of the falls.

Some of the best ways to experience the falls are a Maid in the Mist Tour, a Whirlpool Aero Car, or visiting Goat Island to see both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the falls.

Northumberland County

Just east of Toronto lies a region of picturesque countryside and luxury attractions with a quaint, timeless feel. Summer in Northumberland gives you access to the local agriculture, spas, and breathtaking hikes available to explore.

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, consider St. Anne’s Spa, a resort located in a country castle replete with hot spring pools and flower gardens that are sure to be in full bloom this time of year. The spa offers rooms or cottages for overnight guests and day passes to the pools for day-trippers.

The Northumberland County Forest features 5,000 acres (20.23 sq. km) of protected wilderness to explore. It features a 73-mile (118 km) trail network, so you’re unlikely to run out of places to discover.