A Canadian holiday need not be just about seeing the Niagara Falls, visiting Montreal or exploring one of the vibrant cities of the country. On the other hand, Canada is a country with one of the most beautiful locales and landscapes, making it a great place for hiking. Be it lakes, mountains, national parks or forests, there is no dearth of hiking trails in this stunning country. Moreover, it is a pleasure to hike in Canada throughout the year. So, just because it is winter and the temperature drops way below 0oC, it does not mean that you have to hang off your hiking boots for a while. Rather, take this as an opportunity for an adventurous Canadian winter holiday. With this note, let us look at some of the best hikes (both hiking trails and hiking spots) in Canada.
Must-Visit Trails and Spots in Beautiful Canada
Here is a list of the Best Hikes in Canada:
1. The West Coast Trail
Originally, the trail was created to help shipwreck survivors escape the wild. However, today, it is perfect for those who want to escape from their daily routine and want to spend time amidst nature. This trail is 75 km long and passes through a deserted beach as well as verdant forest located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, located in Vancouver Island. The hike takes around 6 days and would be the right way to spend your winter break from work or even college.
2. Rattlesnake Point
If your plan for winter vacation in Canada involves seeing and walking in snow, the Rattlesnake Point in Ontario is something you would enjoy. The place offers 13 kilometres of hiking trails and no matter which trail you pick, it would lead you to the incredible snow-covered view of Rattlesnake Point. The place is covered with snow-covered cliffs, glacial deposits, cedars, caves, and endless picturesque vistas. You would also be able to spot Chickadees and also feed them with your own hands. It is also a great place to spot white owls both during day and night.
3. Cypress Falls
If donning your snowshoes and climbing or walking on a snowy area is not something you want to do, Canada’s British Columbia offers you Cypress Falls where you can go on a snow-free walk. The trail is just 3 kilometres and it is great for a day trip. It takes just 1.5 hours of your time to cover the entire trail and you would pass through an old forest path to reach the lower Cypress Falls. You can enjoy the view and return or continue your journey to reach the Upper Cypress Falls. For this, you would have to go beyond the border of the Cypress Falls Park but the view from the end would definitely be worth it.
4. Johnston Canyon Hike
The oldest national park of Canada, the Banff National Park, offers some of the most picturesque hiking trails. However, the best one, especially during winter, is the Johnston Canyon. You can choose to go on a relatively simpler hike to the Lower Falls (2.4 kilometres) or the bit challenging one to the Upper Falls (4.8 kilometres), the view of the frozen waterfalls is both dramatic and mesmerizing. Visit on a sunny winter day and get ready to be mesmerized.
5. Parc national du Mont Orford
Close to Montreal, Parc national du Mont Orford, is a great place for winter hiking. The place has several loop trails, which extend to around 90 kilometres and range from low to high difficulty level. Depending on the trail you choose, you would be able to access either of the four summits or elevations up to 853 meters as well as check out lake views. This provincial park of Quebec is also a popular place for skiing in winter.
6. Opal Hills Loop
If you are in for a challenging hike, the Opal Hills Loop is something that you would enjoy. The hike starts at Highway 16 and is 8.2 kilometres long and can take anywhere between 4-6 hours. While you may have a fairly easy hike most of the time, you have to face a 460 meters elevation every three kilometres, which needs a bit of effort. However, all the hard work is worthwhile, as you would encounter breathtaking views of the Maligne Lake as well as alpine wildflowers during your journey.
7. The Valley of Five Lakes Trail
This trail, as the name suggests, is a valley where the trail would lead you to five picturesque lakes. The trail is 4.3 kilometres in length. The hike starts at Icefields Parkway and can take anywhere between 3 to 4 hours to complete. Although the hike on this trail is quite easy, you may have to put some effort at the hills and slopes. As the hike is not very challenging, it is great for beginners. Apart from the beautiful lakes and sceneries, get ready to see some wild animals on your way.
8. Kinney Lake Trail
Tucked away amid the soaring mountain tops within Mount Robson Provincial Park lies the dazzling Kinney Lake. Reaching this picturesque alpine sanctuary requires only an easy 2.8-mile trek down a forested trail.
As you walk along, the path incrementally discloses more and more spectacular vistas of the snow-capped peaks. Drawing nearer to the lake, the trail levels out, unveiling an unobstructed sight across the untouched waters to the hazy Stratos Mountain and the imposing Whitehorn Mountain.
9. Skyline Trail, Nova Scotia
Spanning just 5.4 easy miles roundtrip, this trail proffers stunning scenery at every turn, cementing its status as one of the premier hikes within national parks in Canada. The path winds through tranquil forests and meadows before unveiling breathtaking views of the Cabot Trail road, quaint Canadian mountain towns, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Pause at the picnic sites to glimpse whales frolicking in the waters below. Scan the skies above for soaring eagles, and you may even spot moose along the trail! Take in Nova Scotia’s natural splendor at its finest, with majestic ocean panoramas sure to enthrall hikers of all abilities who relish gorgeous vistas.
10. Appin Road, PEI
Stretching 60km (37 miles) adjoining the South Saskatchewan River, this expansive walking and cycling route winds through the city, guiding you past phenomenal parks, trails, landmarks, and panoramic lookouts that encapsulate Saskatoon’s finest. You can traverse as much terrain as desired along this path. Revel in the beautiful vistas of the river, forests, and flora, while informative signs educate on the city’s storied history and culture. Whether a tourist or resident, it makes for a supreme way to experience Saskatoon, bask in nature, and log some activity.
11. Meewasin Valley Trail
Stretching 60km (37 miles) adjoining the South Saskatchewan River, this expansive walking and cycling route winds through the city, guiding you past phenomenal parks, trails, landmarks, and panoramic lookouts that encapsulate Saskatoon’s finest. You can traverse as much terrain as desired along this path. Revel in the beautiful vistas of the river, forests, and flora, while informative signs educate on the city’s storied history and culture. Whether a tourist or resident, it makes for a supreme way to experience Saskatoon, bask in nature, and log some activity.
12. Garibaldi Lake Trail
Spanning a demanding 15.5 miles, the Garibaldi Lake Trail is regarded as one of the best places to visit in Canada. The path ventures from Cheakamus Lake through staggering mountain scenery toward the vibrantly hued waters of Garibaldi Lake. Steel yourself for sheer ascents, cables, and ridges, unveiling awesome vistas of peaks and glaciers sure to astound. Though arduous, glimpsing Garibaldi Park’s untamed wilderness rewards all exertion. Don’t neglect your camera, snacks, or pluck for this pulse-quickening foray into the iconic British Columbian trail!
13. Wild Pacific Trail
Venture along the spectacular Wild Pacific Trail in coastal British Columbia for a windy 6-mile escape. This relaxed route reveals staggering ocean views and peaceful rainforest atmospheres. Blaze the trail adjoining the cliffs, where you can relish the thunderous waves and amble unhurriedly along quiet beaches. Wander through verdant forests and traverse rugged bluffs whilst breathing in the restorative sea air. Pause at the benches to absorb the environs, glimpse whales gliding through the waters below, and stand atop rocky promontories to admire the Pacific Ocean’s formidable power and splendor at closer quarters. Accessible for all abilities, this picturesque course provisions perfect opportunities for leisurely seafront strolls.
14. Fundy Trail, New Brunswick
For those enamored by coastal vistas and remarkable tides, an exploration of New Brunswick’s sublime Fundy Trail is undoubtedly in order! Spanning 10 miles, this path presents breathtaking scenery bordering the Bay of Fundy, celebrated for the world’s loftiest tides. The trail ushers you through lofty forest trots and seaside saunters, furnishing nonstop views of red cliffs, sandy strands, and the astounding surging and ebbing tides. Don’t neglect to stop at the lookouts and interpretive stations to further appreciate this distinctive landscape. With easy to moderate terrain, it makes for a consummate hike to revel in the region’s epic tidal dance and bewitching beauty.
15. Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park/Othello Tunnels Hike
Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Located near Hope, British Columbia, this park is famous for its Othello Tunnels, a series of old railway tunnels and bridges that cut through solid granite cliffs. The 3.5 km round-trip hike takes you through these impressive tunnels, alongside the rushing Coquihalla River, and through lush forest. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure. The park’s fascinating history as part of the Kettle Valley Railway, combined with its stunning canyon views and unique tunnel experience, makes it a must-visit destination for hikers and history enthusiasts alike.
Tips for Safe Hike during winter in Canada
You may be excited about hiking in Canada and watching the snow. But there are some things that you must remember to ensure that you have a safe hiking trip while visiting these Canadian Jewels During the Off-season:
- It is important to wear insulating layers of clothing. This way, you would be able to wear, remove or adjust the clothes as per the climatic conditions.
- Invest in sturdy winter hiking boots. Make sure that they are waterproof and allow you to remain warm. They should be able to protect you from falling in case of slippery areas.
- Remember to drink enough water during your hike. As it is cold, you may not feel thirsty. But this can cause dehydration. You can also have a hot drink to keep yourself hydrated.
- It is important to munch on calorie-rich snacks like nuts, chocolates, etc. while hiking to keep your energy levels up.
So here you go, these are some of the finest hiking trails that promise a memorable experience in Canada. This list of places to hike in Canada does not do any justice to the number of spectacular hiking trails in Canada. To make your adventurous winter vacation in Canada exciting, do your research well and check out the best trails in the area you are visiting so that you can have the most amazing time here.
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