Top Bucket List Hikes in Canada You Can’t Miss

Best Hikes in Canada

Canada is filled with epic hikes and multi-day treks. With 48 national parks and countless provincial parks, the possibilities of finding stunning hiking trails in Canada are limitless. Whether you are searching for trails with incredible views or challenges, there is a hike that will suit your needs!

Where to go Hiking in Canada

1. Jasper National Park – Alberta

Jasper National Park in Alberta is a hiker’s haven. As the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, it boasts numerous hiking trails making choices overwhelming. One recommended trail is the Sulphur Skyline Trail, where you can dip in a hot spring upon completion!

The Sulphur Skyline Trail is located 61 km (37 miles) from Jasper town, starting at the Miette Hot Springs parking lot. The 8-kilometer roundtrip offers significant elevation gain of 685 meters, making it a rewarding challenge.

2. Skyline Trail – Nova Scotia

The Skyline Trail is a popular short hike located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia. This 7.5 km loop (4.6 miles) leads you to scenic lookouts over the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, making it a must-experience day hike on the east coast.

3. Banff National Park – Alberta

Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, features diverse day hikes such as the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail. This picturesque hike offers stunning views of turquoise glacier lakes and has an 8.5-mile round trip (13.6 km) with a gradual yet challenging ascent.

4. Grizzly Lake Trail – Yukon

The Grizzly Lake Trail in Tombstone Territorial Park provides rugged and remote hiking through the beautiful scenery of the Tombstone Mountains. This one-way trail spans 11 km (6.8 miles) and requires overnight camping due to its length.

Awareness of wildlife, particularly grizzly bears, is essential while hiking in this area. It’s advised to hike in groups, make noise, and conduct hikes during daylight.

5. Gatineau Park – Quebec

Gatineau Park offers several lovely hiking trails leading to scenic lookouts and historic sites. The Mackenzie King Estate, along with various short hikes such as Pink Lake Hike, are highlights of the park’s 165 km (102 miles) of trails.

This park can be busy, so arriving early is advisable to secure parking.

6. Fundy Footpath – New Brunswick

The Fundy Footpath is one of Canada’s premier multi-day hikes, stretching 40 km (24 miles) along the stunning coastal routes of the Bay of Fundy. Registering at the Bay of Fundy Interpretive Center is necessary before embarking on this challenging trek.

7. Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail – Nova Scotia

The Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail offers a remarkable 53 km (33 miles) journey featuring majestic sea cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush coastal wilderness. This stunning hike takes approximately 3-4 days to complete.

8. West Coast Trail – British Columbia

Located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island, the West Coast Trail is an iconic multi-day hiking route. Spanning 75 km (46 miles), this trail is notorious for its challenging terrain and requires significant hiking experience.

9. Pukaskwa National Park – Ontario

Pukaskwa National Park features the Coastal Hiking Trail, which follows the stunning shores of Lake Superior for 60 km. Shuttles to the park are available, and it’s crucial to pack all necessary gear for this picturesque adventure.

10. Bruce Trail – Ontario

The Bruce Trail spans 900 km (559 miles) from Niagara to Tobermory, making it Canada’s oldest and longest footpath. It’s perfect for those who wish to explore Ontario’s stunning natural beauty, although camping is limited in certain sections.

11. Ivvavik National Park – Yukon

Ivvavik National Park offers an off-the-grid hiking experience, accessible only by plane. This remote destination is known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, particularly grizzly bears. Guided hikes are recommended for safety.

12. Cup and Saucer Trail – Ontario

Located on Manitoulin Island, the Cup and Saucer Trail boasts breathtaking views over Georgian Bay. Ascend to a lookout perched 70 meters (210 feet) above the forest for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

13. Garibaldi Provincial Park – British Columbia

The Sea to Sky Highway leads to Garibaldi Provincial Park, where the trail to Garibaldi Lake offers a stunning round trip of 18 km (11 miles). Although it features a steady climb, it can be completed in a day or enjoyed with an overnight campsite.

14. Forillon National Park – Quebec

Forillon National Park on the Gaspé Peninsula offers diverse hikes from short jaunts to more extended excursions. The Mont-Saint-Alban loop offers magnificent views from a towering sea cliff, while Les Graves allows you to gaze upon a lighthouse from a 95-meter cliff.

15. Killarney Provincial Park – Ontario

Killarney Provincial Park features historical significance tied to Canada’s Group of Seven Painters. The La Cloche Silhouette Trail is an 80 km loop that can take 8-10 days, with easier day hikes available for exploration.

16. Grey Owl Trail – Manitoba

Riding Mountain National Park hosts the Grey Owl Trail leading to the cabin of Canada’s first naturalist, Archibald Stansfeld Belaney. This 20 km (12.4 miles) trek is noted for its historical and scenic value.

17. Bucket List Canada Hike

The East Coast Trail in Newfoundland is a 336 km (208 miles) hiking challenge that awaits those seeking remarkable adventure. Although daunting, the trail can be tackled in segments, allowing for exploration of its stunning coastal scenery.

18. Best Gear for Hiking in Canada

Consider these essential hiking gear recommendations for optimal safety and enjoyment during your Canadian hikes:

• SteriPen – For purifying water from natural sources
• Camelback Hydration backpack – Ideal for hands-free hydration
• Garmin inReach Mini – For satellite communication in the backcountry
• Convertible Pants – Adaptable for changing temperatures
• Waterproof Gore-Tex Shell Jacket – Essential for unpredictable weather
• Buffs – Multi-functional headwear for warmth and protection
• Smart Wool socks – To ensure comfort and moisture-wicking capabilities
• Trekking Poles – For stability on challenging terrain
• Peak Hat with Flashlight – Offers sun protection and light
• Moleskin – A preventative measure against blisters

We hope you enjoyed this exploration of iconic Canadian hiking trails. Share your experiences below; where should we trek next?