The 5 Best Hikes in Canada

For lovers of the great outdoors and hiking fanatics, some say that there is no better country in the world to visit than Canada. Not only does it have vast stretches of nearly untouched wilderness to explore, but it also boasts great diversity. A trip to Canada can entail trekking through mountains, lush forests, stunning coastal regions, glaciers and even rainforests. If you like the sound of that, you’ll love reading about the following 5 hiking trails as these are considered to be among the best in the country:

  1. Sunshine Meadows to Mount Assiniboine, Alberta

Starting with the pleasantly named Sunshine Meadows trail, this is a hike that is suitable for hikers of all abilities, including families with children. This multi-day hike passes through stunning parts of the Canadian Rockies where hikers can enjoy views of mountains, lakes and meadows. The trek requires some advance planning, and you may encounter wildlife like bighorn sheep, mountain goats and even elk along the way, making it worth the effort.

Mount Assiniboine Sunburst Lake
Mount Assiniboine Sunburst Lake

Mount Assiniboine Sunburst Lake, photo by Kurt Stegmüller on Wikipedia

 

  1. The West Coast Trail, British Columbia

Located in the Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island, this hike is one of the most famous and strenuous hikes in Canada. Despite being just 46 miles long, this trail will take between 5-7 days to complete. This hike is not recommended for beginners or small children as it contains very steep and often slippery paths. Stunning views of cliffs, gorges and the sea make the whole trek worthwhile, and lucky hikers have even spotted whales, so be sure to keep an eye out.

  1. Twillingate, Newfoundland

If you’re in search of breathtaking views of untouched natural beauty, Twillingate is the perfect place for you. A whole network of hiking trails offers spectacular views of icebergs, whales, lighthouses and cliffs. Hikers can choose to do a day hike or spend multiple days exploring this unique area in Newfoundland and Labrador. Whatever length of time you wish to spend there, just make sure to wrap up warm.

  1. The Bruce Trail, Ontario
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Despite being located in one of the most populous areas of Canada, the Bruce Trail is one of the most beautiful and diverse in the country. The whole trail is over 550 miles long and can be completed in 30-60 days. The Bruce Trail is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve and features a whole array of impressive rivers, streams and waterfalls, the most famous of all being Niagara Falls, which can be reached by a side trail. When searching for a fallsview hotel at the end of the hike, many visitors decide to treat themselves after the strenuous hike.

Bruce Trail - waterfall
Bruce Trail – waterfall

Bruce Trail – waterfal, photo by Robertbody on Wikipedia

  1. The Plane of Six Glaciers Trail, Alberta

Located in the Canadian Rockies, this trail can be hiked in one day and makes for a very popular day trip for many visitors. As the name suggests, hikers will enjoy panoramic views of glaciers, turquoise mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks. After an exhilarating day of beautiful views and a great workout, why not enjoy an afternoon tea at one of the many tearooms at the lookout point? It’s as relaxing as it sounds.

As you can see, Canada offers hikes for all abilities and tastes. The list above is by no means comprehensive but it does give a good mix of what’s on offer so be sure to include at least one of these in your next trip.

17 thoughts on “The 5 Best Hikes in Canada

  1. I have only been to Vancouver in Canada and nowhere else. I wish I do get a chance to go back and see these natural wonders. I got a preview in Whistler and I know I want to see more.

  2. Canada seems to be such a beautiful country. It has a lot of nature and a lot of greens. I can’t wait to visit

  3. Canada is so underrated! I remember for the longest time, I had no interest in visiting. But lately, I’ve been really into hikes and kept coming across wonderful photos from there. Definitely changes my mentality!

  4. I have heard so much about Canada from my friends but never got the chance to see and explore this place. I believe they have got such a natural beauty.

  5. Canada is such a lovely place and most of it is untouched! It would be nice to tour around Canada and experience some of these trails.

  6. I love to hike and trek trails and mountains. I would definitely check on this spots when I am in Canada. They look so scenic.

  7. I haven’t done hikes here in the Philippines because I’m still preparing myself. I think it’s much harder to hike here because of the humid weather compared to your area which is much cooler? It would be so awesome to hike in overseas especially in the western side (my point of view as asian) because of the different scenery and temperature.

  8. Truly a wonderful place to explore personally within your dreams. Moreover, your article give much info for the readers. Canada is great!

  9. I’m not into hiking or nature haha. I’m a certified homebody but my husband and kids love the outdoor, I’m sure they’ll get a kick out of the best hiking places in Canada. Thanks!

  10. Aw, why didn’t you share photos of all the 5 hike trails? it’ll be nice to have some comparison. Before reading in detail, I thought you were sharing waterfall/ rapid spots!

  11. Just wow! That view of Mount Assiniboine Sunburst Lake is really breathtaking. I really want to go to Canada and live there!

  12. Great places in Canada! I wanna go there one day! 😀 how much do you think it would cost me to go these places? I’m from the Philippines! 😀

  13. When you hike with this view, it’s all worth it. Never been to Canada but would really love to explore the country someday (during winter).

  14. Hiking would be fine in good scenery like these. My daughter is based in Canada, and who knows I might visit her one day. Sure I’ll visit these places too.

  15. I searched more photos of the Bruce Trail online, and that one really is breathtaking. It must be very refreshing to take a dip in the various bodies of water while in between trekking.

  16. I’m not a fan of hiking but these sites are truly wonderful! Canada is truly a beautiful country 😀

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