From the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and the majestic Rockies to the ancient forests of Ontario and the sparkling waters of the East, Canada offers some of the world’s most breathtaking hiking experiences.
Here, we’ve rounded up some of the finest trails across the country, split by region, with options for every skill level and interest.
British Columbia
West Coast Trail (Vancouver Island, British Columbia)
Length: 75km (one-way)
Duration: 5–7 days
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Thru-hike
This legendary trail traverses the southwestern edge of Vancouver Island through lush rainforest, pristine beaches, and a dramatic, rugged coastline. Originally a lifesaving route for shipwreck survivors, the trail now offers a deeply immersive wilderness experience that tests endurance and rewards with unforgettable ocean views.
Tips: Book months in advance as permits are limited. The northern section (from Bamfield) is generally easier.
Best time to go: Mid-May to mid-September.
Juan de Fuca Marine Trail (Vancouver Island, British Columbia)
Length: 47km (one-way)
Duration: 3–5 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Thru-hike
This more accessible alternative to the West Coast Trail still packs a coastal punch with sweeping ocean vistas, secluded beaches, and the chance to spot whales and sea lions. The trail winds through lush forest and along rocky headlands, often close enough to hear the pounding surf.
Tips: China Beach to Sombrio Beach (8.5km) makes a great day hike. Be prepared for muddy conditions year-round.
Best time to go: May to September.
Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit (Yoho National Park, British Columbia)
Length: 11km (loop)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Loop
This alpine wonderland links a series of turquoise lakes and stunning viewpoints nestled among towering peaks. Limited daily access helps preserve its fragile ecosystem, making this hike feel especially serene and unspoiled.
Tips: Reserve the bus three months in advance or call daily for cancellations. Be prepared for variable weather even in summer.
Best time to go: Mid-July to mid-September.
Berg Lake Trail (Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia)
Length: 42km (round trip)
Duration: 1–3 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Out-and-back
The trail to Berg Lake offers dramatic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and towering Mount Robson—the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Glacial-fed Berg Lake dazzles with its surreal blue colour and iceberg-strewn waters.
Tips: Make time to visit Emperor Falls on the way, and secure permits early as the trail is very popular.
Best time to go: Late June to early September.
Alberta
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse Trail (Banff National Park, Alberta)
Length: 14km (round trip)
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Out-and-back
Starting at the world-famous Lake Louise, this trail climbs steadily past alpine scenery to a historic teahouse with views of multiple glaciers. The continuation past the teahouse offers even more solitude and stunning glacier-carved landscapes.
Tips: Bring cash for the teahouse; dress in layers as temperatures can drop at higher elevations.
Best time to go: Late June to early October.
Skyline Trail (Jasper National Park, Alberta)
Length: 44km (one-way)
Duration: 2–3 days
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Thru-hike
This iconic backcountry trail delivers high-alpine hiking with sweeping views, as over half the trail lies above the treeline. The path crosses several mountain passes and offers good chances to see wildlife like caribou and marmots.
Tips: Hike from Maligne Lake to the Signal trailhead for better scenery and easier climbing. Carry bear spray and check trail conditions.
Best time to go: Late July to early September.
Crypt Lake Trail (Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta)
Length: 17km (round trip)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Out-and-back
Accessible via a boat shuttle, this trail offers thrills including cliffside sections, a tunnel crawl, and a cable-assisted traverse. The alpine lake at the end of the trail is a stunning turquoise gem surrounded by steep cliffs.
Tips: Book the shuttle boat early, and bring gloves for the cable section.
Best time to go: July to mid-September.
Ontario
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park (Ontario)
Length: 22km (Top of the Giant Trail)
Duration: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Out-and-back
This challenging trail climbs to dizzying heights above Lake Superior, offering some of the most dramatic views in Ontario. You’ll pass serene inland lakes, steep cliffs, and rare plant life along the way.
Tips: Start early and bring plenty of water; use the South Kabeyun Trailhead for best access.
Best time to go: June to October.
La Cloche Silhouette Trail (Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario)
Length: 78km (loop)
Duration: 7–10 days
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Loop
Named after Group of Seven artist Franklin Carmichael’s painting, this loop winds through rugged quartzite mountains and around pristine sapphire lakes. The white granite ridges provide dramatic contrast against the blue sky and green forest.
Tips: Book campsites early and plan food drops if needed. Don’t miss the Silver Peak side trail for panoramic views.
Best time to go: August to early October.’
Pukaskwa Coastal Trail (Ontario)
Length: 60km (one-way)
Duration: 5–7 days
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Thru-hike
This wild trail follows the remote northeastern shoreline of Lake Superior through boreal forest and over slick, exposed rock. Solitude is almost guaranteed here, with moody weather and crashing waves adding to the atmosphere.
Tips: Go in late summer for easier stream crossings and ripe blueberries. Prepare for blackflies earlier in the season.
Best time to go: August to mid-September.
Devil’s Rock via Caribou Mountain (Temiskaming Shores, Ontario)
Length: 7km (round trip)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Type: Out-and-back
This short but stunning hike near Haileybury leads to panoramic cliff-top views over Lake Temiskaming. The cliffs rise dramatically from the lake and offer great photo opportunities.
Tips: Ideal for families or beginner hikers; go at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.
Best time to go: May to October.
Quebec
Mingan Archipelago Trails (Quebec)
Length: Variable
Duration: 1–3 days
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Type: Network of trails
Located along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, these island trails feature surreal limestone monoliths, seabird colonies, and peaceful coastal scenery. Some trails pass by puffin nesting areas and historic lighthouses.
Tips: Access by boat from Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan; dress in layers for wind and weather.
Best time to go: July to early September.
Mont-Mégantic Summit Loop (Quebec)
Length: 10.5km (round trip)
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Loop
This loop offers expansive views of the Appalachian Mountains and ends at an astronomical observatory atop Mont-Mégantic. The trail winds through mature mixed forest with bursts of colour in autumn.
Tips: Stay after sunset for stargazing; bring headlamps if you descend in darkness.
Best time to go: Mid-June to early October.
East
Long Range Traverse (Newfoundland and Labrador)
Length: 35km (one-way)
Duration: 3–5 days
Difficulty: Very difficult
Type: Thru-hike
This unmarked route in Gros Morne National Park crosses rugged backcountry with stunning fjords and expansive tundra. Navigation skills are essential as there’s no formal trail, only cairns and GPS checkpoints.
Tips: Pass a navigation test to get a permit; carry a detailed map and compass.
Best time to go: July to early September.
East Coast Trail (Newfoundland and Labrador)
Length: 336km (full trail)
Duration: 10–14 days
Difficulty: Easy to difficult
Type: Thru-hike (sections)
Stretching along the Avalon Peninsula, this trail links villages and wild coastal terrain, from sea stacks and arches to iceberg viewpoints and lighthouses. Highlights include the dramatic Spout Path and historic Signal Hill.
Tips: The Spout Path has a natural geyser; visit during high tide for the best display.
Best time to go: June to September.
North
Akshayuk Pass (Baffin Island, Nunavut)
Length: 97km (one-way)
Duration: 8–12 days
Difficulty: Very difficult
Type: Thru-hike
This Arctic trek through Auyuittuq National Park is framed by granite peaks and ancient glaciers under the midnight sun. The terrain is challenging and often includes river crossings, moraines, and deep valleys.
Tips: Cross rivers early in the day when glacial melt is lowest; carry insect repellent.
Best time to go: Late June to early August.
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