Hike Canada: A Guide To Hikes All Across Canada
For those of you who don’t know, I am Canadian. Canada is truly an awesome country. One of my favourite things about Canada is that it is so beautiful. The east coast, the west coast and everywhere in between has its own unique nature and wildlife and when put together it makes up one stunning country. There is so much nature to explore in Canada, it truly is a hiker’s paradise. Let’s take a look at one must do hike from every province.
Hikes Across Canada:
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL): Enjoy the stunning views as you explore Canada’s eastern coastline while hiking the East Coast Trail. With over 300 kms and 26 paths to hike, your adventure on the East Coast Trail could last you days. The trails are filled with amazing views of cliffs, sea stacks, and a natural wave-driven geyser named the Spout. You will be able to explore the gorgeous nature of NL, and see wildlife such as whales, caribou, and seabirds. Explore abandoned settlements, lighthouses, and reserves, as well as experience two archaeological digs, a suspension bridge and more.
Prince Edward Island (PEI): Take a break from all the potatoes and red sand beaches and hike one of PEI’s best trails, Greenwich Dunes Trailhead. Located at the Greenwich Interpretation Centre, the Dunes Trailhead takes you through old farmland right to the tip of the Atlantic, on a floating boardwalk! Once you reach the Atlantic spend some time relaxing and enjoy the view of dunes.
Nova Scotia: Enjoy a birds eye view of one of the most gorgeous national parks, Cape Breton Highland National Park, while hiking the Skyline Trail. This hike will take you to some of the best scenic points in the whole province, including stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Keep your eyes open for whales, moose, bald eagles, bears, and other seabirds.
New Brunswick: Get submerged in the nature of the province on the Fundy Footpath. This rugged, wilderness trail will lead you to some great views of the Bay of Fundy, and Big Salmon River. This trail makes for a great 3-4 hiking trip, and has been rated one of the best hikes in the world. This hike is more suited for experienced hikers and tide charts are required.
Quebec: Say bonjour to Canada’s french speaking province as you explore the trails of Jacques Cartier National Park. Located 30 mins from Quebec City, the park has more than 100 kms of trails to explore. You will see stunning views and be surrounded by rivers, birch trees and more.
Ontario: Spend time exploring Algonquin Park, there are many hiking trails, and canoeing journeys that you can enjoy. The 12 km long Mizzy Lake Trail is one of the best spots in the park to spot wildlife. The rocky, root filled path, passes through 9 bodies of water all home to busy beavers.
Manitoba: Explore Manitoba’s “desert” while trekking through Spirit Sands and The Devil’s Punchbowl. This unique experience will lead you through the hot sand dunes, and cacti, as well as meadows, lush forests and blue-green bodies of water.
Saskatchewan: Experience the beauty of the prairies while hiking the 70 Mile Butte, located in the Grasslands National Park. Keep your eyes open for wildlife including rattlesnakes, bison, antelope and birds. Fun fact to tell your friends while you hike, Canada’s first fossil was found in the Grasslands.
Alberta: Take in the best of the Canadian Rockies as you explore the Valley Of The Ten Peaks and Moraine Lake. You will be in awe and wonder the entire time you hike. Only 15 kms west of Banff National Park, these trails will give you views of the brilliant turquoise-ish coloured lake, Wenkchemna Peaks, Mount Fay, Mount Bowlen, Mount Allen, Mount Babel and a few hanging glaciers.
British Columbia (BC): Dive into the wonder of the Pacific Rim National Park as you hike along the West Coast Trail. Be awestrucked by the beauty of both the Pacific Ocean and the rainforest. Along the trail you may see black bears, whales, otters, ravens, seabirds and eagles. This is a well known hike and has been labeled the hike of a lifetime.
There you have it, a hike to experience in every province of Canada. If you hike any/all of these, be sure to share your photos and stories with me because I would love to hear them. What are some of your favourite Canadian hikes? PS. If you are new to hiking be sure to check out my tips for new hikers here.
Sending you love and joy on all your voyages,
