Top 6 Hikes in Canada
From the Pacific’s peaks to the ochre cliffs of the Atlantic, here are six hikes that embody true, wild Canada.
Canada has a lot of ground to cover on foot. In one country, you can hike through coastal rainforest, across prairie badlands and over Canadian Shield granite, some of the oldest exposed rock on Earth. Narrowing that down to six trails meant choosing places our team has been to, and spots that aren't on everyone's list. And if your hiking boots have mostly seen the dog park, start with number 5.
1. Cape Chignecto Trail
Province: Nova Scotia
The coastal path is a lesson in humility in the face of the Bay of Fundy and the world's highest tides. You’ll find steep ascents, pointed headlands, red sandstone cliffs, pebble beaches, and a wind-swept spruce forest.
Level: Hard
Length: 48 kilometres
Elevation gain: 2108 metres
2. West Coast Trail
Province: British Columbia
A challenging classic over several days in the backcountry. You’ll need to climb vertical ladder systems with heavy packs, cross suspension bridges and fast-flowing rivers. But the landscape carved by the Pacific’s rough weather makes this legendary route a must-see.
Level: Very Hard
Length: 75 kilometres
Elevation gain: 1700 metres
3. Sulphur Skyline Trail
Province: Alberta
The perfect trail for high-altitude hiking without technical mountaineering. After a gradual climb through the forest, the path begins to steepen before opening onto one of the most beautiful panoramas in the Jasper region. At the summit, a 360-degree view unfolds over Mount Utopia.
Level: Intermediate
Length: 8 kilometres
Elevation gain: 659 metres
4. La Cloche Silhouette Trail
Province: Ontario
A technical loop through the hills of twisted pines battered by the gusts of Georgian Bay. The highlight of the hike is the famous white quartzite ridges, which alone are worth the detour. A journey of a few days for experienced hikers.
Level: Hard
Length: 77 kilometres
Elevation gain: 2404 metres
5. Lac-aux-Américains Trail
Province: Quebec
Here, the effort-to-beauty ratio of the landscapes is exceptional. This short hike with a 90-metre elevation gain leads to the stunning glacial cirque of Lac-aux-Américains. A tip: stay until the last light of the day, when the warm glow reflects on the crystal-clear water.
Level: Easy
Length: 2,6 kilometres
Elevation gain: 90 metres
6. Tablelands
Province: Newfoundland and Labrador
Here, you walk directly on the Earth's crust. The ochre rock that makes up the Tablelands should not normally be exposed at the surface. It creates a mineral landscape reminiscent of Mars. Follow the boardwalk for an easy hike, or venture off the beaten track into the Winter House Brook canyon (no route markers here; you need to prepare accordingly). After the viewpoint, follow the stream back to the bottom of the canyon. Two kilometres further on, take the southern branch to reach the ridge. At the top: orange ridges and complete silence.
Level: Easy to Hard
Length: 4-9 kilometres
Elevation gain: 300 metres
What you'll need to bring on your next hike
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