Canada, with its vast landscapes and rich history, is home to numerous abandoned places that offer a glimpse into the past. From ghost towns to derelict industrial sites, these locations, once bustling with life and activity, now sit quietly, slowly being reclaimed by nature. For those fascinated by urban exploration (Urbex), here are ten of the most captivating abandoned places in Canada, where time seems to have stood still.
1. Val-Jalbert Ghost Town (Quebec)
Val-Jalbert is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Canada, located near Lac Saint-Jean in Quebec. Abandoned in the 1920s after the closure of its pulp mill, the town still contains many of its original buildings, including homes, a school, and a general store. Today, it is part of a historical park where visitors can explore and experience life in a once-thriving industrial village.
2. Riverview Hospital (Coquitlam, British Columbia)
Riverview Hospital, opened in 1913, was one of the largest mental health institutions in British Columbia. Closed in the early 2000s, the massive complex now stands abandoned, though parts of the site are still used for filming. The grandiose architecture and empty wards make it a favorite destination for urban explorers, though access is restricted.
3. Gagnon Ghost Town (Quebec)
Gagnon was a mining town founded in the 1960s and abandoned in 1985 after the nearby iron mines closed. Located in a remote part of Quebec, Gagnon was demolished after its abandonment, leaving only streets and building foundations. The eerie remains of the town, in the middle of the wilderness, offer a unique exploration experience.
4. Tranquille Sanatorium (Kamloops, British Columbia)
Tranquille Sanatorium, built in 1907 to treat tuberculosis patients, later served as a mental institution before closing in the 1980s. The large complex includes abandoned hospital buildings and an extensive network of underground tunnels, making it a fascinating yet spooky place to explore. Guided tours are occasionally offered, as the site is officially off-limits to unsupervised visitors.
5. Britannia Mine (Britannia Beach, British Columbia)
Once the largest copper mine in the British Empire, Britannia Mine operated from 1904 to 1974. Today, it is a museum, but many of the industrial structures remain abandoned. Visitors can explore some of the old tunnels and equipment, which provide a glimpse into Canada’s mining history. The site combines stunning coastal views with industrial decay, making it a must-see for Urbex enthusiasts.
6. Cobalt Mining District (Ontario)
The Cobalt Mining District, designated a National Historic Site, was a major silver mining hub in the early 1900s. After the mines were exhausted, the area became largely deserted. The region is now home to numerous abandoned headframes, tunnels, and mining structures. Some areas are preserved as museums, but much of the landscape remains untouched and offers a haunting view of Canada’s mining past.
7. Kingston Penitentiary (Kingston, Ontario)
Opened in 1835, Kingston Penitentiary was one of Canada's oldest and most notorious prisons before its closure in 2013. The imposing stone structure, complete with solitary cells and massive walls, now stands empty. While officially closed to the public, guided tours are occasionally available, offering a glimpse into this historical prison and its dark past.
8. Broughton Ghost Town (Nova Scotia)
Broughton was an ambitious coal mining town established in the early 1900s in Nova Scotia. However, the project failed within a few years, leaving the town abandoned. Today, only the crumbling remains of buildings, including a grand hotel, stand as remnants of this forgotten community. The town’s eerie atmosphere, overgrown by nature, makes it a captivating destination for explorers.
9. Capelton Mine (Quebec)
Located near North Hatley, Quebec, Capelton Mine was one of Canada’s oldest copper mines, operating from the 1860s to 1907. The mine is now a tourist attraction, but many areas remain abandoned and untouched. The underground tunnels and rusted mining equipment are a testament to Canada’s industrial heritage. While some parts are accessible through guided tours, the surrounding abandoned areas remain a hidden gem for adventurers.
10. Prince of Wales Fort (Churchill, Manitoba)
While not a typical urban exploration site, Prince of Wales Fort is an abandoned stone fortress dating back to the 1700s. Built by the Hudson’s Bay Company to protect its fur trade operations, the fort was eventually abandoned after a French attack in 1782. Located in the remote tundra near Churchill, Manitoba, the fort's decaying stone walls are a dramatic reminder of Canada’s colonial past.
Conclusion
Canada is home to an array of abandoned places, from ghost towns to industrial ruins, each telling a unique story of the country’s history and development. These sites offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore forgotten chapters of Canada's past. However, it is crucial to respect the laws and safety regulations when visiting these locations, as many are on private property or may pose significant risks. For those who tread carefully, these abandoned places provide an unforgettable journey into the forgotten corners of Canada’s history.
