Canada's Best Hikes: Top Trails from Every Province and Territory

Welcome to our exploration of Canada's premier hiking destinations, presented by Northbound Gear. As a country renowned for its expansive wilderness, captivating landscapes, and varied ecosystems, Canada provides an array of unparalleled hiking experiences. From the rugged shores of Newfoundland to the towering peaks of British Columbia, join us as we journey through the top three hiking trails in every province and territory. Whether you're an experienced trailblazer or a novice to the trails, this guide has something for everyone.

Alberta:

Plain of Six Glaciers, Banff National Park - Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Banff with this classic trail that offers views of lakes, mountains, and, of course, glaciers.
Skyline Trail, Jasper National Park - One of Canada's premier backpacking trails, the Skyline offers high ridges and stunning vistas.
Crypt Lake Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park - Featuring a boat ride, a tunnel, and a cliff traverse, this hike is an adventure from start to finish.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Alberta here.

British Columbia:

West Coast Trail, Vancouver Island - A challenging, multi-day hike known for its stunning oceanic scenery and rich history.
Garibaldi Lake, Garibaldi Provincial Park - A popular day hike offering spectacular views of turquoise waters and alpine landscapes.
Stawamus Chief, Squamish - Climb this massive granite monolith for breathtaking views of Howe Sound.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in B.C. here.

Manitoba:

Spirit Sands and Devil's Punch Bowl, Spruce Woods Provincial Park - Wander through unique desert-like sands before reaching an oasis-like punch bowl.
Mantario Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park - A challenging wilderness trail perfect for a multi-day backcountry adventure.
Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls Trail - Follow this trail to Manitoba’s highest waterfall through rugged northern wilderness.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Manitoba here.

Saskatchewan:

Grey Owl Trail, Prince Albert National Park - Trek through the boreal forest to the cabin of the legendary conservationist, Grey Owl.
Grasslands National Park East Block - Experience the unique landscape and see some of Canada’s rarest wildlife.
Meadow Lake Provincial Park - Numerous trails offering lakeside views and forested paths.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Saskatchewan here.

Ontario:

Bruce Trail, Niagara Escarpment - Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath provides stunning vistas over Georgian Bay.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park - The Top of the Giant Trail offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
Killarney Provincial Park - The La Cloche Silhouette Trail offers rugged landscapes and stunning lake views.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Ontario here.

Quebec:

Le Sentier International des Appalaches (GR A1) - Quebec’s section of the International Appalachian Trail offers stunning landscapes.
Mont Tremblant National Park - Multiple trails but Le Diable and La Roche provide exceptional mountain views.
Gaspesie National Park - The Mont Albert and Mont Jacques-Cartier trails offer challenging hikes and the chance to see caribou.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Quebec here.

New Brunswick:

Fundy Footpath, Fundy National Park - Experience the world’s highest tides and rugged coastal landscapes.
Mount Carleton Provincial Park - Hike to the highest peak in the Maritimes for panoramic views.
Kouchibouguac National Park - The Osprey Trail is great for bird watching and seaside views.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in New Brunswick here.

Nova Scotia:

Cape Breton Highlands National Park - The Skyline Trail is renowned for its stunning ocean vistas.
Kejimkujik National Park - Offers diverse trails, but the Liberty Lake Trail stands out for its wilderness experience.
Coastal Heritage Trail, Lawrencetown - A scenic coastal hike offering views of the Atlantic.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Nova Scotia here.

Prince Edward Island:

Confederation Trail - Spanning the entire island, this converted railway is now a scenic trail.
Greenwich Dunes Trail, PEI National Park - Experience unique parabolic dunes and boardwalks over wetlands.
Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park - Offers a variety of trails through diverse terrains.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in P.E.I here.

Newfoundland and Labrador:

East Coast Trail - A long-distance coastal trail offering a variety of landscapes and sea views.
Gros Morne Mountain Trail, Gros Morne National Park - A challenging hike with rewarding summit views.
Green Gardens Trail, Gros Morne National Park - Explore unique volcanic landscapes and coastal meadows.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Newfoundland & Labrador here.

Yukon:

Chilkoot Trail - Follow the historic gold rush route with stunning scenery and history.
Tombstone Territorial Park - The Grizzly Lake Trail provides breathtaking mountain views.
Kluane National Park - The King's Throne Trail offers spectacular views of Kluane Lake and surrounding peaks.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Yukon here.

Northwest Territories:

Canol Heritage Trail - A remote and challenging wilderness trail with historical significance.
Virginia Falls, Nahanni National Park Reserve - Not a long hike, but the views of the falls are unforgettable.
The Frame Lake Trail, Yellowknife - A scenic urban trail showcasing the natural beauty surrounding the city.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in the Northwest Territories here.

Nunavut

Auyuittuq National Park - The Akshayuk Pass offers stunning Arctic landscapes and challenging terrain.
Sylvia Grinnell Park, Iqaluit - Easy access trails with beautiful tundra and river views.
Quttinirpaaq National Park - Remote and rugged, this park offers some of the most northerly hikes on Earth.

Explore more trails: Discover the top 10 hikes in Nunavut here.

Canada's vast and varied landscapes make it a premier destination for hikers around the world. From coastal treks to mountainous ascents, these trails offer a glimpse into the natural beauty and diversity of our great country. Remember, preparation is key for any hiking adventure – visit Northbound Gear for all your outdoor gear needs, from reliable hiking boots to essential safety equipment. Get ready to explore the beauty of Canada, one trail at a time.

Share your experiences with us on social media using #WeAreNorthbound and join our community of explorers and nature lovers. Happy hiking!