The De Havilland Beaver bushplane, a true Canadian icon, celebrates its 60th birthday today. This little plane that could was developed specifically for the Canadian north, with ample input from pilots. It’s most commonly seen on floats, but can also fly on wheels or skis. Nearly 1,700 of the planes were built. Despite its age, there are still many hundreds of Beavers flying all over the north. It’s been hailed as one of Canada’s top inventions.

What does this have to do with tourism? Float planes in summer (and planes on skis in winter) are a classic way to get around in Canada’s north, or even between Victoria and Vancouver. What is a more truly Canadian travel experience than a flight in the noble Beaver?