Canada in August: Weather, Crowds and More
August is a sublime time to take a trip to Canada for its pleasant weather and long sunny days. The near-perfect weather also means a massive spike in both domestic and foreign tourist crowds. But this is par for the course for a country that sees frigid winter.
Popular destinations, from the Canadian Rockies to Vancouver Island to Whistler are at their busiest during the summer season. So expect the airfare and hotel prices to be higher when visiting Canada in August — and make sure to book your accommodations in advance.
- Mr. Alessandra M.
Canada weather in August
Summer officially runs from late June to late September in Canada, which puts August in the middle of the season. Although August is slightly cooler and drier than July, you’ll likely enjoy warm, pleasant weather most of the time—the temperature in Canada in August is divine.
As the second largest country on earth, Canada is a sprawling northern nation with numerous climatic zones. Temperatures in southern regions (where most travelers gather) tend to be warmer, while the remote northern areas remain relatively cool. Major cities like Quebec see a maximum temperature of 24°C (75°F) and a minimum of 15°C (59°F) whereas Calgary’s maximum temperature reaches 23°C (73°F) with a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F). Similarly, Toronto reaches a maximum high of 24°C (75°F) and a low of 17°C (63°F).
Some areas such as the Canadian Prairies and Eastern/Central Canada can sizzle in summer, where 30°C + (85°F) days aren’t uncommon. Head to the coast if you’re not fond of being hot. August is not suitable for skiing as the snow has long melted away. However, some of Canada’s world-famous alpine resorts (including Whistler Blackcomb) open their lifts for mountain bikers in summer.
For a detailed overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Canada.
Weather in Canada in August - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 0 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 14 | 8 | 1 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -5 | -5 | -2 | 5 | 10 | 10 | 17 | 17 | 13 | 8 | 2 | -3 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 32 | 32 | 40 | 49 | 63 | 72 | 77 | 76 | 72 | 58 | 47 | 34 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 23 | 23 | 29 | 41 | 50 | 50 | 63 | 63 | 56 | 47 | 36 | 27 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 40 | 40 | 40 | 50 | 30 | 40 | 60 | 50 | 40 | 40 | 50 | 20 |
| Jul | Aug | Sep | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 25 | 24 | 22 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 17 | 17 | 13 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 77 | 76 | 72 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 63 | 63 | 56 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 60 | 50 | 40 |
Why Visit Canada in August
As one of the northernmost countries on earth, Canada gets notoriously chilly in winter. The midsummer month of August, however, is an ideal time to get outside.
- Pleasant weather: Warm balmy days and comfortable nights are the best parts about taking a trip to Canada in August. Whether you’re a trendy urbanite or an outdoorsy explorer, the weather in Canada in August is superb.
- A festive atmosphere: School’s out for summer, and that brings millions of Canadian (and American) families out to play. August entails a fun, family-friendly vibe, with scores of holidaymakers making the most of the summer season.
- Festivals and Events: August in Canada brings a string of fabulous festivals catering to the summer holiday crowd. Highlights include the Celebration of Light fireworks (Vancouver), the exuberant Toronto Caribbean Carnival, and the rootsy Edmonton Folk Music Festival.
Where to go and what to do
August is prime time for urban exploration. Bouncing between chic Canadian galleries, parks and bars is a joy when the weather’s so lovely and warm.
Taking a trip to Toronto? Summer is the perfect time to hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands (BYO picnic lunch) or snag a bargain at the outdoor Kensington Market. Old Montreal boasts a slew of picturesque European-inspired abodes, and the city’s massive Mont-Royal Park comes alive in summer. UNESCO-listed Old Quebec calls for alfresco picnics and dinners at its historical attractions like the Château Frontenac.
Many of the best places to visit in Canada in August are on the west coast. August is idyllic for a trip to Vancouver, where you can stroll Stanley Park to rub shoulders with the local set. Over in Victoria, the lusciously leafy Butchart Gardens look fabulous in summer. Outdoor recreation on Vancouver Island is within easy reach. For nature lovers, the best things to do in Canada in August include hiking, cycling, or kayaking through spell-binding national parks tours. If you’ve never been to the Rockies, hotspots like Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Park will blow you away.
Prince Edward Island is a popular summer holiday spot for its red-sand beaches and tasty seafood treats. Nearby, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is another classic summer destination—hikers mustn’t miss the Cabot Trail. August brings warm balmy weather to most of Canada, perfect for city sightseeing tours or outdoor adventures in its stunning national parks. However, summer break vacationers and an influx of foreigners lead to higher prices and larger tourist crowds.
The bottom line? The only thing you can’t do in Canada in August is ski.
For itinerary inspiration, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Canada. Consider traveling to Canada’s off-the-beaten-track destinations if you’re craving to escape the crowds. If you are overwhelmed with ideas, look into our tailor-made trip to Canada in August.
