The Greatest Hiking Trails In Canada

Hey Tourist! Canada is known across the world as one of the leaders in hiking trails. With more national, provincial, and public parks than most countries around the globe, many tourists make it their mission to experience the beautiful outdoor terrain that Canada has to offer. There is much to see at each location from the east coast to the west, including the vibrant flora and fauna that varies across the land. Following, are the top hiking destinations for anyone to consider when planning a trip to the Great White North, each with a view more stunning than the last.

Banff

Alberta is known for its incredible landscapes and scenic nature. Hikers have been flocking to this region of Canada for years and for those who have been or seen pictures, it is clear why. Pride thrives within wanderers who take on this Canadian alpine pass. Climbing to the top for hours is grueling work here in Alberta, and the landscape stretches over sixteen-hundred kilometers. Once near the upper portion of the mountains, tourists can see spectacular surroundings, consisting of Lake Louise and countless trees which range from lodgepole pines, Engelmann spruce, and subalpine firs. An abundance of wildlife inhabits this region as well, including Grizzly and Black bears, Lynx, Wolverine's, Cougars and the majestic Elk. Becoming one with nature is a way of life at this hiking hub, not to mention fleeting opportunities to hike across frozen lakes and ride stunning gondolas, a chance rarely found elsewhere.

Now that you know about all of the great opportunities that Banff has to offer visitors, the next slide will bring a breathtaking destination to Central Canada.

Algonquin

Algonquin Park is a popular attraction for travelers headed north. Located in Ontario, the rolling hills and jagged rocks make for a natural and challenging terrain, not for beginners. The only means for travelers to explore the interior of Algonquin Park is by foot which makes for a quiet and personal experience cherished by locals and tourists alike that enjoy the peaceful getaway. Approximately fourteen trails line the park’s forests making for a wide selection of routes privy to exploration and curiosity. Wildlife here is stunning as well; there is an abundance of birds to be seen such as the Gray Jay (recently deemed the Canada Jay) and the Chickadee. Moose is also a popular attraction in Algonquin, as they are commonly seen roadside due to leftover salt deposits, and warmth. Trout fishing is a common activity here as well, where locals and globetrotters from around the world journey to take advantage of the flourishing fishing conditions during peak seasons.

Now that you understand the great wilderness in Algonquin, the following page offers another cool opportunity to get outdoors in Canada, this time in the awe-strikingly beautiful terrain out East.

Fundy National

Fundy National Park is next on the docket, a prime location in New Brunswick which is known for its beautiful scenery and family-friendly space. Hikers here will found an abundance of trails made up of valleys, mountains, and waterfalls. Naturally occurring pathways are amazing for getting close to nature and the water coming from streams and waterfalls is some of the clearest water one can see in Canadian nature. A diversity of plant life is fantastic, including hundreds of species, most notably is the Bird’s-Eye Primrose, a native plant which only grows in this New Brunswick park.

Fundy National is a great site full of lush flora and bustling fauna. Following, however, is an even more amazing site for those eager to visit the east coast.

Alexander Murray

Alexander Murray trail must be placed on the list for the uniqueness of the trail and the amazing view. Due to the coastal view of the trail, hikers can see passing icebergs during the proper season April-May. Often referred to as one of Newfoundlands best-kept secrets, Murray is one of the more quiet trails listed which may be beneficial to those hoping for a clear route and lots of room to explore. However, be prepared for stairs at this location; twenty-two hundred stairs litter the trail and raise elevation for travelers by eleven-hundred feet.

Now that you know about Alexander Murray, the upcoming spot will bring just as much excitement to anyone out in the wilderness.

Garibaldi Lake

Vancouver is stunning, a real treat for any serious hikers looking to make the most of a trip. Located in Whistler, Vancouver is Garibaldi Lake which is as scenic as hiking trails can get. The water here is a gorgeous turquoise color, and terrain promises a challenge. Garibaldi's route seems like it will go on forever at times but those who persist will be rewarded a junction with multiple options to take, left or right will bring you to a calm and peaceful sight whether that be an encapsulating view of Garibaldi Lake or a meadow full of beauty and fragile flowers. Regardless, Whistlers star trail should be considered by any hiking tourists.

Garibaldi Lake has some pretty incredible terrain to explore, but the next slide offers a true favorite for Canadians and visitors to strap on their hiking boots and get lost in the peaceful woods.

Mount Robson

Mount Robson Provincial Park is known for its world-renowned hiking trail and is a great opportunity for hikers to add another trail to their list. Berg Lake Trail, the popular route, is twenty-three kilometers and is accompanied with seven campgrounds for pads to crash overnight. Three biogeoclimatic zones are located sporadically along the hiking path and make for a great opportunity to stop and take in some of the spectacular wildlife and nature Canada has to offer. A most common attraction for visitors is a collection of glaciers which pass through the waters of Berg Lake.

Now that you know about the great wonders that Mount Robson has to offer, the following is a great destination for following up.

Kananaskis

Kananaskis, located west of Calgary, Alberta is a phenomenal system of trails which is comprised of everything from the beginning trail which is easy for newcomers, to expert trails designed to test travelers. Some of the trails will only last about a half hour while other will test hiking boundaries for over twelve hours. Depending on which trail is chosen there are a variety of sights to see including hidden waterfalls, tall trees, and wildlife. Native to these parts are grizzly and black bears, lynx, coyotes and around one-hundred and thirty bird species. Hikers are to restrain from feeding wildlife, but there are interpretive programs, and amphitheaters provided by the park to educate guests on wildlife do’s and do-not's.

Last but not least, the upcoming slide features a destination that is perfect for finishing the list of top hiking destinations to visit in Canada.

Whiteshell

Whiteshell Provincial Park located in Manitoba is the last highlight to make this list, but should not be underestimated. The park is littered with rushing lakes and trees everywhere providing a proper environment for those hikers looking to get away from it all. There is a meteorite lake among the trails which makes for a great spot to rest and catch one’s breath. Whiteshell also has a selection of trails which are accessible year round, perfect for those wishing to go for a hike during the Winter season or to even catch a glimpse of the trees mid-Autumn.