The Best Ecolodges & Wilderness Resorts

Tigh-Na-Mara Resort Hotel (Parksville; tel. 800/663-7373): Comfortably rustic log cabins in a forest at beach's edge: Tigh-Na-Mara has been welcoming families for decades, and the new luxury log suites are just right for romantic getaways.

Strathcona Park Lodge (Strathcona Provincial Park; tel. 250/286-3122): A summer camp for the whole family is what you'll find at Strathcona Park Lodge, with rustic lakeside cabins and guided activities that range from sea kayaking and fishing to rock climbing and mountaineering.

Miles Inn on the T'Seax (New Aiyansh, tel. 250/633-2636): In the north, when you get to the end of the road and come face-to-face with the wilderness, it's a comfort and wonder to find this marvelous backcountry lodge. Miles Inn combines sophisticated lodging, First Nation artwork, and the friendly and knowledgeable welcome of hosts ready to help you explore the untamed woodlands along the Nisga'a River.

Buffalo Mountain Lodge (Banff, tel. 800/661-1367): Rustic charm meets upscale comfort on the Tunnel Mountain bluff behind Banff. Buffalo Mountain Lodge is centered on a large, handsome log lodge building with an intimate fireplace-dominated bar and elegant dining room. The woodsy, holiday-card-perfect atmosphere extends to the guest rooms, with fireplaces, slate-tiled bathrooms, and balconies overlooking the forests. Definitely worth the splurge.

Tekarra Lodge (Jasper; tel. 888/962-2522): Quaint little cabins ring a central lodge building at this well-loved getaway. The cabins are atmospherically rustic; best of all, you're a mile distant from Jasper's busy town center.

Becker's Chalets (Jasper; tel. 780/852-3779): These very attractive new cabins are set right along the Athabasca River. Some units are as large as houses. Jasper's best restaurant is here as well.

Overlander Mountain Lodge (Jasper East; tel. 877/866/2330): Forget the wildly overpriced rooms in Jasper Townsite and stay here, just .5km (1/4 mile) outside the park gates. Lovely new cabins plus a handsome older lodge with a good restaurant make this an in-the-know favorite.

Emerald Lake Lodge (Yoho National Park; tel. 800/663-6336): Location, location, location: Sumptuous lakeside cabins at the base of the Continental Divide make this a longtime favorite family-vacation spot.