Hikes in Canada
Canada is perhaps the ultimate adventure holiday destination, with huge national parks, towering mountain ranges, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and lush forests. If you’re looking for a real experience in the Great Outdoors, Canada certainly won’t disappoint. The world’s second-largest country, Canada has enough awe-inspiring sights to satisfy even the most enthusiastic nature lovers!
Spreading across the top of North America, and extending all the way into the Arctic, Canada is home to an abundance of rare and wonderful wildlife. Travelers here must share the land with a whole host of creatures, including moose, bears, mountain lions, and wild Canadian geese, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of some of these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat. Indeed, it’s Canada’s wildness that attracts many visitors – it’s one of the only places in the world where you can really escape from it all and immerse yourself in nature.
Canada’s most popular regions for adventure travel are Alberta and British Columbia, home to the Canadian Rockies and some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Come here for hiking, backpacking, climbing, scrambling, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and much more! Whether you want to dip your toes in a crisp alpine lake or trek along some of the most exhilarating ridge walks in the Rockies, there’s something for everyone here.
Canada is so huge, and the possibilities for adventure travel so vast, it can be difficult to know where to start! To help you plan your journey, we’ve put together guides to all the best regions for adventure travel in Alberta and British Columbia. You’ll find activity guides, tour recommendations, and top tips for planning a trip – all you need to do is decide where to go first!
25 Greatest Hikes in Canada
Why not explore the diverse scenery of Nevada on a hiking adventure? With plenty of options to choose from, you can hike through the desert for some peace and tranquility on the Calico Loop Trail, or you can wander the snow capped mountains of Red Rock Canyon National Park.
- Plain of Six Glaciers: This hike remains a classic in Banff National Park, traversing around stunning Lake Louise, past the famed tea house and breathtaking glacier views.
- Golden Ears: Find this popular trail within Golden Ears Provincial Park, as you attempt this two-day long hike through some of the toughest terrain for rewarding views.
- Emerald Basin: This serene trail weaves around an iconic green lake, taking in glaciers, waterfalls and mountainous peaks.
- Opal Hills Hike: This underrated trail is a moderately challenging, but immensely rewarding climb. Follow the path as it undulates up and down through blooming meadows and craggy peaks. This remains one of the best hikes in all of Jasper.
- Peyto Lake: This azure blue lake often makes it to the top of every Rocky Mountain hiking trip itinerary. With stunning views over the entire lake, this family-friendly hike is one you won’t forget anytime soon.
- Crystal Falls: This gentle trail snakes around glistening Upper Coquitlam River for a picturesque hike. Continue through scenic and shaded woodlands before spotting stunning Crystal Falls waterfall off in the distance and canyon pools to cool-off in during the summer months.
- Moraine Lake Hike: Perfect for inexperienced hikers, this quick out and back trail offers lookout points over crystal clear Moraine Lake. Be forewarned though, this trail is incredibly popular so get here early to snag a parking spot!
- Burstall Pass: If you’re looking to hike in Alberta during the fall season, Burstall Pass is the perfect place to spot larches. Those experienced enough to scramble will enjoy the thrill of conquering Snow Peak!
- Paradise Valley Circuit: This is a local favourite hike in the Lake Louise area, where hikers venture past pristine lakes, flowing waterfalls and a challenging scree ascent.
- Kokanee Glacier Cabin: This epic hike makes for a great overnight trip with older children to experience the magic of the Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Snuggle up in a cabin overnight, then spend the next day exploring the surrounding wildflower fields and wilderness.
- Toe of the Athabasca Glacier: If you’re looking to skip the expensive tours, traverse the Toe of Athabasca Glacier trail to get up close to the icy mammoth for free. The views are amazing and the trail is well-graded and family-friendly, offering fun for all!
- Panorama Ridge Hike: Making for an ideal long day or multi-day hike, this trail will provide ridge views you’ll never forget. Prepare for lots of switchbacks, wildflower fields and alpine meadows on this unforgettable adventure.
- Sarrail Ridge via Rawson Lake: We won’t lie, this hike is quite the challenge, but once you reach Sarrail Ridge, it will all be worth it to look out over the entirety of the Rocky Mountains. This summit should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
- Lake O'Hara All Souls Route: This is one of the standout hikes located directly in the Canadian Rocky Mountains! This circuit trail passes beautiful lakes and amazing views from the ridgeline, all kept pristine by the limited access to the trail.
- Stanley Glacier: Located in Kootenay National Park, there are plenty of pretty spectacular trails to be found, but Stanley Glacier is our favourite for its spectacular views, alpine picnic meadows, cascading waterfalls and of course, the glacier!
- Tent Ridge Horseshoe: One of the most popular hikes in the Kananaskis Country area, this is a can’t miss hike! With multiple peaks, this trail is perfect for hikers who love to scramble, offering rewarding views and even better pictures.
- Tunnel Bluffs: This scenic hike is relatively easy, but rewards with amazing views over Howe Sound and the surrounding islands. It also makes for an ideal spot for a sundowner picnic.
- Mount Loki: Prepare for an incredible challenging feat at Mount Loki, the highest peak seen from the highway between Nelson and Kaslo. This mountain is only to be hiked during the summer season and offers 360 degree views as far as the eye can see.
- Heart Mountain Horseshoe: Get your heart pumping on the aptly named Heart Mountain Horseshoe hike in Canmore. This circuit is not overly difficult, but it does require some technical skill and a bit of scrambling if that’s your thing!
- Upper Myra Falls: For an easy, but beautiful hike in Strathcona Park, check out Upper Myra Falls. With well-paved trails spanning through old growth forest, this stroller-friendly trail makes for a quick, but adventurous day spent in nature.
- Lineham Ridge: This out and back trail should be at the top of your bucket list, snaking through creeks, forests and meadows to bring you to a jaw dropping ridgeline with panoramic views of Rowe Valley, Rowe Lakes, and Lineham Lakes.
- Joffre Lakes: Tucked away just past Pemberton, you’ll find a hike winding past multiple stunning alpine lakes--Joffre Lakes. Find picturesque picnic spots and stunning views of the magnificent Matier Glacier in Whistler.
- Brandywine Falls: For an ideal day hike from Whistler Village, this easy, gentle hike is popular among trail runners and families alike all looking to spot the cascading waterfall.
- Garibaldi Lake: This is a favourite hike in Whistler for its colourful, kool-aid blue lake. With steady switchbacks for most of the trail, this will get your legs burning and heart pumping!
- Citadel Pass: While on a hiking holiday in Banff, the Sunshine Meadows to Citadel Pass trail is not to be missed. Pass by wildflower fields, scenic lakes and eventually panoramic views while enjoying some steep elevation gains.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Canada
Canada is a truly outstanding all-year-round destination with amazing hikes to enjoy regardless of season (yes, even in the winter!). While temperatures are more pleasant in the shoulder seasons, spring and fall, the winter season brings a whole new scenery with snow blanketing the trails. In the summer, hikers can enjoy plenty of lake dips to cool down on hot days and bursting wildflower fields, but trails can be busy and overrun with tourists.
Best Regions to Hike in Canada
There are countless stunning regions to hike in Canada, but we did our best to narrow it down to just a few of our favourites (though it’s always changing!). In Alberta, Banff National Park is a local favourite and for good reason, we never tire of the rockies. Jasper is a bucket list location, with its stunning landscape of lakes, mountains and glaciers. The Kananaskis Trail falls at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies and is a lesser-known region, making it quieter and more serene. Castle Provincial Park is new, but growing in popularity for its fascinating archaeological and historically significant sites. And Waterton Lakes is tucked away where the prairies meet the Rocky Mountains and home to a bit of everything.
Over in British Columbia, Kootenay National Park forms one of seven parks that connects the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Yoho National Park is often overlooked, but is an adventure enthusiasts dream with options for hiking, biking, or skiing. In Whistler, this iconic ski destination offers fantastic training trails and is just a quick drive from Vancouver. Strathcona Provincial Park is tucked away on Vancouver Island remains a bit of a hidden gem, we won’t tell if you won’t! Finally, Vancouver’s North Shore isn’t to be missed, with stunning beach fronts and challenging trails.
Other Activities in Canada
Canada is an adventure paradise, with plenty of activities to choose from, regardless of season or skill level! From XC skiing in Banff National Park, to testing your scrambling skills in Castle Provincial Park, to backpacking through Kootenay National Park, to snowshoeing in the hills of Kananaskis Country, there are plenty of chances to get outdoors and enjoy that crisp Canadian alpine air.
Canada's Adventure Tours
If you’d rather skip the headache of planning your own trip, why not let 10Adventures help? With our wide-range of tours in Canada, all you have to do is pack your bag—the rest is taken care of! From immersing yourself in the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains to paddling the waters of the Yukon, our 10Adventure tour options are guaranteed to be epic and worry-free.
How to Plan a Trip to Canada
Convinced you need to explore the natural beauty of Canada while hiking? We’ve got you covered with our complete guides on planning a trip to plenty of areas across Canada, outlining the best spots for food and a pint (or two), cozy hotels, and fun activities to fill your day. From Squamish, to The West Kootenays, to Kananaskis Country, to Strathcona Provincial Park, to Whistler, to Victoria, to Castle Provincial Park, to Waterton Lakes National Park, to Banff, to Jasper, to Kananaskis Country—we took out all the guesswork, leaving more time for daydreaming.
Hiking regions in Canada
Best Hikes in Canada
Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy is an 8.4 km hiking route near Fernie, BC, that will provide hikers with some fantastic views overlooking the valley. You will have a sightline over Island Lake below and the surrounding mountain peaks from your hilltop perch. This is an excellent trail for both experienced and casual hikers due to the combination of moderate elevation gain and easy-to-navigate terrain.
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Horsethief Canyon Trail
The short and easy Horsethief Canyon is just outside of Drumheller and is only 800 m long. It is the perfect fresh air stop for all abilities. The canyon itself is a stunning landmark that can’t be missed when passing through.
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Chickakoo Lake Outer Loop
The Chickakoo Lake Trail is located outside of Edmonton at the namesake recreation area. The 6.8 km trail loops around the lake, passing by other water features and marshlands. There are many small intersecting trails here as well as plenty of picnic areas. The outer loop trail is the longest in the area, making it the best way to explore the area.
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Bee Line Trail
The Bee Line Trail is a 4.5 km lollipop hiking route in Cranbrook, BC, that will lead you uphill through a scenic stretch of forest to an amazingly scenic lookout. From the viewpoint atop the hill, you will have panoramic views of the landscape surrounding Cranbrook, including the Rocky Mountains to the east and the Purcell Mountains to the West. This is a very well-marked trail that is perfect for a fun family outing.
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Frosty Mountain Trail
The Frosty Mountain Trail is a scenic 21.2 km out-and-back hiking route in E.C. Manning Provincial Park that will take you through picturesque forests and alpine meadows on a course leading to the summit of Frosty Mountain. Along the trail, you will be able to see the natural beauty of the landscape, including wildflowers, golden larches, and awesome mountain views overlooking the Canada-United States border. This hike is definitely a contender for the best route in the area.
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Deja View/Old Coach Trail Loop
The Deja View/Old Coach Trail Loop is a 15.4 km hiking route near Invermere, BC, made up of several trails to form a multi-use circuit along the Columbia River Escarpment. Along this meandering route, you will have some phenomenal views overlooking the river and out to the majestic Purcell Mountains. As there are some steep drop-offs along the trail, hikers should be cautious when hiking near the edge of the escarpment to prevent any serious injury.
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Boucherie Rush Trail
The Boucherie Rush Trail is a popular hike situated in West Kelowna! This hike is a total bang-for-your-buck: it’s short, gets your heart rate up, and nothing beats the shimmering Okanagan Lake views flanked by the sprawling metropolis and rolling hills at the top.
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Chinese Mountains Loop
The Chinese Mountains Loop is a 4.2 km lollipop hiking route on Quadra Island that will take you uphill to the summit of the north and south Chinese mountains for a sightline across the coastal landscape. Along the trail, hikers can expect a variety of terrain types including gravel roads, dirt, rock, and creek beds that climb up the mountainside to lookouts with views of both mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island. This hike has some of the best views on Quadra Island, so make sure to add it to your list for the next time you find yourself exploring coastal BC.
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Takakkaw Falls Hike
The Takakkaw Falls Hike is really more of a short walk than a true hike; however, the views that can be found on this quick adventure in Yoho National Park will produce some amazing photo opportunities and memories to last a lifetime. The 1.3 km out-and-back route initially crosses over a bridge that spans the rushing waters of the Yoho River before climbing slightly uphill along a pathway that leads to a viewpoint over Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s second tallest waterfall. You likely won’t drive all the way to Yoho just to complete this brief journey, but if you find yourself hiking other trails in the area - especially if you have kids - then you might as well come take in the jaw-dropping views!
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Moul Falls Trail
Hiking the Moul Falls Trail is a great family-friendly adventure in Wells Gray Provincial Park that takes you to a viewpoint overlooking a beautiful waterfall. This 5.5 km out-and-back trail is made up of fairly easy terrain and can be completed by hikers of most skill levels; however, the descent to the falls is a bit steep and slippery so make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and watch your footing. For an added bit of adventure on this hike, make sure to head into the cave behind the falls to get the full misty experience of the water crashing down onto the rocks.
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Neck Point Park Loop Trail
The Neck Point Park Loop Trail follows a 1.8 km hiking circuit along the coast that offers amazing views across the Strait of Georgia toward mainland British Columbia. Along the trail, hikers will enjoy a nice mix of coastal and forested landscapes with the opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as eagles perched high up in the trees and seals lounging on sun-warmed rocks. This is a fun, easy-to-navigate trail with amazing views that is suitable for both casual and experienced hikers alike.
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Mount Arrowsmith via Judges Route Hike
The trek up Mount Arrowsmith via the Judges Route follows a 6.0 km out-and-back trail that leads through the forest and up some rugged, exposed terrain to the summit of Mount Arrowsmith. The trail is a steep and gruelling uphill climb; however, the views from the summit are absolutely breathtaking and provide a panoramic sightline of the surrounding Vancouver Island terrain. If you are looking for a relatively short but physically intense hike with epic views, then a day atop Mount Arrowsmith should certainly make it into your schedule.
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Assiniboine Lodge to Nub Peak Loop Hike
The Assiniboine Lodge to Nub Peak Loop is a great hiking route in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park that offers some challenging terrain and stunning views of the alpine landscape. While on the hike, you will pass by a number of gorgeous lakes and climb up to the summit of a rugged peak for views of Mount Assiniboine. This route is a great day-hike option, as the return along a different trail will allow you to take in as much scenery as possible.
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Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail
The Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail is a 12.2 km out-and-back hiking route near Gibsons, BC, that will take you up to a viewpoint overlooking Bowen Island and Howe Sound. This challenging route is a bit of a leg-burner, as it climbs sharply uphill with an elevation gain of 1,065 m. Although steep, the trail is very well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it suitable for casual and experienced hikers that are looking for a tough hike.
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Booth’s Rock Trail
Hiking the Booth’s Rock Trail is a fantastic experience in Algonquin Provincial Park that will take you up to an amazing lookout with arguably some of the best views in the park. While out on the trail, you will make your way through a scenic stretch of woodland terrain featuring beautiful pine trees before climbing up to a stunning lookout with views over Rock Lake. Well-marked, maintained, and easily accessible, this is a fantastic day-hike that is suitable for almost all skill levels.
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Lion’s Head Loop Hike
The Lion’s Head Loop is arguably one of the most popular hiking routes in the entire province of Ontario, and it is for good reason. This amazing trail will take you across a rocky and rugged bluff for breathtaking views overlooking the shimmering waters of Georgian Bay before ending the hike with a relaxing stroll through a lovely stretch of woodland terrain. This trail is usually very busy and runs over capacity, so be sure to arrive early to enjoy at least a few of the beautiful views in solitude.
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Glen Stewart Park Trail
Hiking the Glen Stewart Park Trail is a quick and easy outdoor experience in the east end of Toronto that can be enjoyed by hikers of all ages and skill levels. Along the trail, you will experience a tranquil woodland atmosphere, as you make your way past mature trees that line a scenic ravine that is dissected by a quaint stream. While this route is accessible year round, portions of the trail can become icy in the winter and muddy in the spring, making it less than ideal to hike during these periods.
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Ball’s Falls Loop
The Ball’s Falls Loop is one of the most popular day-hikes in the Niagara Region due to its compatibility for hikers of all skill levels and fascinating historical buildings. The trail unfolds on the scenic Niagara Escarpment and takes hikers through a rich natural landscape, including waterfalls and the Twenty Mile Creek. Hikers can explore relics of the old milling operations that once thrived here, orchestrated by the prominent “Balls” family that settled the area. A fascinating 19thcentury village is available for hikers to explore, home to the Ball family home, a small church, various mills, a blacksmith shop and more!
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McConnell Lake Trail
The McConnell Lake Trail is a 3.7 km hiking circuit south of Kamloops, BC, that will allow you to explore the natural beauty of the woodland landscape within McConnell Lake Provincial Park. Along the trail, you will experience a tranquil forest setting that offers some picturesque views across the calm waters of the lake. Featuring flat terrain and amazingly scenic views, this trail is a fun, family-friendly experience that will get you out enjoying the wonderful trails in the Kamloops area.
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Capilano River Regional Park
Wander in one of Metro Vancouver’s oldest parks, the Capilano River Regional Park. Choose from trails spanning over 26.0 km, featuring highlights like the incredible Capilano Canyon, the Cleveland Dam, the Capilano River, and a salmon hatchery. Feel small among the impressive canyon walls of jutting cliffs then observe the rushing white-water of the river for a quick outdoor adventure.
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