Canada, with its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems, offers some of the best hiking experiences in the world. From the rugged coastlines of the East to the towering peaks of the Rockies and the serene beauty of the West Coast, Canada’s trails are a hiker’s paradise. Here are some of the top places to hike in Canada during the summer.
Photo by James Wheeler
1. Banff National Park, Alberta
The Iconic Rocky Mountain Adventure
Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a world-renowned destination for hikers. The park boasts a range of trails that cater to all skill levels, from gentle walks to challenging alpine climbs. Just be warned that it gets hectic there in the summer.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Plain of Six Glaciers: This trail offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding glaciers. The 14-kilometre round-trip hike leads to a historic teahouse where you can rest and enjoy the scenery.
•Sentinel Pass: Starting at Moraine Lake, this challenging 11.6-kilometer trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
2. Jasper National Park, Alberta
Untamed Wilderness and Scenic Trails
Jasper National Park, just north of Banff, provides a more secluded hiking experience. Its vast wilderness areas are home to an array of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Tip: If you are going from Banff to Jasper or vice versa, stop by to see the Athabasca Glacier. It’s the most visited glacier in North America and is quite the site, and there is really no hiking needed to see it.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Sulphur Skyline: A steep 8-kilometer hike that offers spectacular views of the Fiddle River Valley and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is conveniently located near Miette Hot Springs, which is perfect for a post-hike soak.
•Skyline Trail: This multi-day trek spans 44 kilometres and is one of the most popular backcountry hikes in the park. The trail takes hikers through alpine meadows and along ridgelines, offering stunning vistas throughout.
3. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador
Diverse Landscapes and Geological Wonders
Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its unique geological features and diverse landscapes. The park’s trails range from coastal paths to challenging mountain climbs.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Gros Morne Mountain: This 16-kilometer round-trip hike is a challenging ascent to the park’s highest peak. The summit provides sweeping views of the Long Range Mountains and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
•Green Gardens: This moderate 9-kilometer trail showcases the park’s coastal beauty, leading hikers through meadows, forests, and along sea cliffs.
4. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia
Coastal Beauty and Rainforest Trails
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, located on Vancouver Island, offers a unique hiking experience with its lush rainforests and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Must-Do Hikes:
•West Coast Trail: This iconic 75-kilometre trail is a challenging multi-day hike that takes adventurers along the rugged coastline through temperate rainforests and past waterfalls. It’s a demanding trek, but the stunning scenery makes it worthwhile.
•Schooner Cove Trail: This shorter, 2-kilometre trail takes hikers through old-growth forests to a beautiful sandy beach. It is perfect for those looking for a less strenuous yet equally rewarding hike.
5. Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
Majestic Tides and Forested Trails
Fundy National Park is known for having the highest tides in the world, but its hiking trails are equally impressive. The park features a variety of trails that wind through lush forests and along coastal cliffs.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Dickson Falls: This easy 1.5-kilometer loop trail takes hikers through a cool, shaded forest to a beautiful waterfall. It’s a perfect short hike for families.
•Fundy Footpath: For the more adventurous, the Fundy Footpath is a 41-kilometer backcountry trail that offers challenging terrain and stunning views of the Bay of Fundy.
6. Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia
Alpine Lakes and Mountain Vistas
Located just north of Vancouver, Garibaldi Provincial Park is a favourite among hikers for its stunning alpine scenery and crystal-clear lakes.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Garibaldi Lake: This 18-kilometer round-trip hike is a moderate challenge and leads to the turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake. The trail offers beautiful views of wildflower meadows and snow-capped peaks.
•Black Tusk: For those seeking a more strenuous hike, the 29-kilometre round-trip to Black Tusk is a must. The hike takes you through meadows and along ridges to the iconic volcanic pinnacle.
7. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Coastal Cliffs and Highland Views
Cape Breton Highlands National Park combines coastal beauty with highland terrain, offering a unique hiking experience. The park’s trails provide stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged landscape.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Skyline Trail: This 7.5-kilometer loop is one of the park’s most popular trails. It offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is a great spot for wildlife viewing.
•Franey Trail: A challenging 7.4-kilometer loop that takes hikers to the top of Franey Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Clyburn Brook Canyon and the Atlantic coastline.
8. Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
Remote Wilderness and Towering Peaks
Kluane National Park and Reserve is home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, and offers some of the most remote and spectacular hiking opportunities in the country.
Must-Do Hikes:
•King’s Throne: This 15-kilometer round-trip hike offers stunning views of Kathleen Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail climbs steeply to a natural rock amphitheatre, providing a dramatic backdrop.
•Auriol Trail: A 15-kilometer loop that winds through forests and alpine meadows, offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
9. Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
Crystal Clear Waters and Scenic Escarpments
Bruce Peninsula National Park, located along the Niagara Escarpment, is known for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. In the summertime, it’s truly a beautiful area and offers endless hiking.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Bruce Trail: Part of Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, this section of the Bruce Trail offers stunning views of the escarpment down to Georgian Bay and ends down at the Niagara River. The trail can be customized for shorter or longer hikes depending on how much of the trail you want to do since it would probably take days, if not weeks, to do it all.
•Grotto Trail: A 3-kilometer round-trip hike that leads to the famous Grotto, a scenic sea cave with clear turquoise waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and exploring.
10. Yoho National Park, British Columbia
Waterfalls and Glacial Lakes
Yoho National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is known for its stunning waterfalls and pristine glacial lakes. The park offers a range of trails that highlight its natural beauty.
Must-Do Hikes:
•Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit: This network of trails offers some of the best hiking in the Rockies. The circuit can be customized to create various loop hikes, all offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks and lakes.
•Iceline Trail: A 20-kilometer loop that takes hikers past glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. The trail offers stunning views of the Yoho Valley and Takakkaw Falls.
Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes provide an endless array of hiking opportunities for adventurers of all levels. Whether you’re seeking the rugged beauty of the Rockies, the coastal charm of the East, or the remote wilderness of the North, there’s a trail in Canada that’s perfect for your summer hiking adventure. Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and breathtaking views, making Canada a hiker’s dream come true.
markmunroe
Founder, CEO at ADDICTED Media Inc
Mark Munroe is the Creator and EIC of ADDICTED. He's ADDICTED to great travel, amazing food, better grooming & probably a whole lot more!
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