Looking for a way to reconnect with nature, enjoy time with your family, get some exercise or simply clear your head? Hiking is a wonderful way to spend time outdoors. From coast to coast, Canada offers some of the best pathways into Mother Nature. Grab a pair of shoes, water bottle and hat and remember the hikers’ mantra: leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photos. These are the top trails — but which one’s the best?
Cabot Trail
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Named for the famous navigator, John Cabot, the Cabot Trail invites the next generation of explorers to one of the most scenic trails in Canada. Wind around the highlands by foot or by car. Get outside – no excuses!
Fundy Trail
Saint Martins, New Brunswick
The Fundy Trail is carved out of the escarpment. With stunning views like these, you’ll be remiss if you forget your binoculars. See the birds or something else…
Galloping Goose Regional Trails
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
If you’re new to hiking, this is a great place to begin. The Galloping Goose Regional Trail is a 55 kilometre rail trail that runs between Victoria, Sooke, Metchosin, Colwood, Langford, View Royal and Saanich in British Columbia. The trail weaves through a variety of beautiful British Columbian terrains, giving hikers an opportunity to experience coniferous wooded areas, babbling brooks, roaring rivers and pristine lakes.
Bruce Trail
Niagara Escarpment, Ontario
The Bruce Trail is 900 kilometres along the edge of the Niagara Escarpment. Hike, revel at the waterfalls, streams and check out the century old trees. This is the best place to become a tree hugger – no lie.
Tea House Challenge
Banff, Alberta
Feeling adventurous? Take the Tea House Challenge. It’s a one-day trek that is totally worth the climb. Reward yourself with homemade soups, pies, scones, or select one of the 100 loose-leaf teas. Earn your calories on the Tea House Challenge.
Appin Road
Appin Road, Prince Edward Island
In the land of red soil and potatoes, lace up your hiking boots for this decades-old network of classic PEI clay paths. Get your fill of soaring trees, cooling breezes, and wildflowers galore. Gear up for 2.95 kilometers of adventure.
Kejimkujik National Park
Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia
Part of Canada’s National Parks system, “Keji” offers 15 hiking trails cutting through lush forests of red maple, pine, and old-growth hemlock. Ditch the shoes for cycle or skis and glide through lush Nova Scotia.
Killarney Park
Killarney Park, Ontario
Killarney Park is one of the best places to stargaze. Hike the 80 km looped La Cloche-Silhouette Trail and study the sky at the observatory. If you’re more of an adventurer, Killarney Park is a popular stopover for canoe campers.
Kinney Lake Trail
Kinney Lake Trail, British Columbia
Revel in the majesty of the snow-capped Rockies! Check out crystal clear Kinney Lake against the towering grey and white peaks of The Rockies –this makes the perfect backdrop for navigating Mount Robson Provincial Park.
Twillingate
Twillingate, Newfoundland & Labrador
The best hiking trails need not be in the woods! Check out Iceberg Alley in Twillingate. Each cove or bay offers new scenery and the ocean air and rolling coastlines are begging you to come hither. Twillingate is a fishing village, so if you’re looking for something quaint – this is for you. Visitors come from afar to watch the icebergs drift down iceberg alley – catch a glimpse of this cool phenomenon.