Treks Across Canada: From Coast to Coast to Coast
Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes Last updated on 8th December 2024
From the rugged coastline of Newfoundland to the temperate rainforests of British Columbia, Canada’s long-distance trails showcase the incredible diversity of the world’s second-largest country. These paths trace ancient Indigenous routes, follow historic waterways, and wind through landscapes shaped by glaciers. Whether traversing the Canadian Shield, following the curve of the Pacific coast, or exploring the maritime provinces, these trails offer hikers intimate encounters with Canada’s vast wilderness and rich cultural heritage. They range from community-built coastal paths to ambitious cross-country routes, each telling a unique story of the land and its people.
The Bruce Trail in Canada is a well-maintained footpath that allows visitors to explore the Niagara Escarpment in Canada, a UNESCO World Biosphere. The Bruce Trail Conservancy and the Toronto Bruce Trail Club care for the land within the biosphere, protecting its ecosystems and making it available for exploration.
Cape Scott & the North Coast Trail
Cape Scott Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, BC features two scenic hiking routes: the Cape Scott Trail (CST) and North Coast Trail (NCT). The CST, established in the 1960s, is approximately 15km long with varied terrain, showcasing stunning coastal views, rainforests and wildlife like black bears and seabirds. The NCT extension was completed in 2008, offering a more challenging hiking experience through remote areas, extending the total hike to about 58km. It is recommended for experienced hikers due to difficult terrain and weather conditions, with opportunities to view various wildlife including bears, wolves, deer and marine mammals. Both trails require preparation, including wilderness safety precautions, appropriate gear and consideration of changing coastal weather conditions. Accessible by driving to Cape Scott car park or using a water taxi to Shushartie Bay for the start of NCT.
The Damnable Trail, situated on Newfoundland and Labrador’s Eastport Peninsula, offers hikers over 30 kilometres of diverse terrain, ranging from easy to challenging. With stunning Atlantic Ocean views at lookout points like Net Point, Southern Head and Round Head, this trail boasts rich historical significance through its connection to local pirate lore. Hikers may encounter wildlife such as bald eagles and seals during their journey. Developed with community support after the closure of a fish plant in 2001, The Damnable Trail provides an immersive experience that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Recommended from May to November for optimal weather conditions, this well-maintained trail includes an overnight camping platform at Barrow Harbour.
The Dumoine River Tote Road Trail in Canada allows hikers to experience the history and natural beauty of the Dumoine River, one of the last free-flowing, undammed rivers in the Ottawa River Watershed. The 60-year-old trail passes through remnants of the past, including old river drive stopping places, fire towers and shanty camps.
The East Coast Trail (ECT) is an enchanting long-distance coastal footpath located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, stretching approximately 336 kilometres (209 miles). Established in 1994, it has grown into a popular hiking destination, recognised by National Geographic as one of the best adventure spots. The trail consists of 25 linked paths through diverse landscapes, including cliffs, fjords and historic sites. With various difficulty levels, the ECT caters to both casual hikers and serious adventurers. It passes by several natural attractions like the Spout geyser and offers opportunities for wildlife watching, cultural engagement and accommodations in over 30 communities along the way. Hikers can enjoy scenic vistas and explore historical sites such as Signal Hill or Cape Spear. The trail is open year-round, with well-maintained paths that attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world to experience Newfoundland’s spectacular coastline.
The Ganaraska Hiking Trail (GHT), a 500-kilometre recreational trail maintained by the non-profit Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association, stretches from Port Hope on Lake Ontario to the Bruce Trail near Collingwood, with additional side trails extending to Wasaga Beach and Midland. This extensive trail system, overseen by nine member clubs that organise local hikes and maintain their respective sections, traverses the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek, Wendat-Huron and Haudenosaunee nations, with the Association acknowledging past settlement practices that were not always respectful of the natural environment whilst promoting hiking to foster both environmental connection and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
International Appalachian Trail Newfoundland & Labrador
The International Appalachian Trail Newfoundland & Labrador (IATNL) is a long-distance hiking trail in western Newfoundland, extending from Port aux Basques to Crow Head. Established in 2003, the IATNL aims to expand the IAT by approximately 750 km through diverse terrains such as sections of the Newfoundland T’Railway, gravel logging roads, wilderness mountain trails and secondary highways like Route 430 (Viking Trail). With offerings from 1-day to 4-day hikes including scenic areas like Lewis Hills and Gros Morne National Park, the IATNL promotes environmental stewardship, connects people with nature for conservation purposes and provides recreational opportunities, employment and health benefits. Upon completion, the extension will add approximately 1,200 km to the International Appalachian Trail network.
The Island Walk is a captivating hiking trail on Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, featuring diverse landscapes including coastal views, rolling hills and charming communities. With a total length of approximately 700 kilometres (435 miles) and taking around 15 to 20 days to complete, this moderate-level trail offers opportunities for hikers with varying experience levels. The well-marked route showcases PEI’s natural beauty, including wetlands, forests and farmland, as well as cultural experiences in local towns and access to marine life. Camping and other accommodation options are available along the way, with some sections requiring advance booking during peak tourist seasons. Hikers are encouraged to visit between late spring and early autumn for optimal weather conditions.
The Okanagan High Rim Trail is a 55-60 km (34-37 miles) long-distance hike connecting Vernon and Kelowna in British Columbia, Canada. This challenging trail offers a diverse wilderness experience through the Thompson Plateau for approximately 3 to 4 days. Key features include dense forests, open spaces, viewpoints, numerous forestry roads and intersections, limited water sources, wildlife viewing opportunities such as deer, bobcat, black bear, various bird species and notable sections like The Grand View and Cardiac Hill. Hikers should exercise careful navigation due to varying trail conditions and utilise GPS and detailed maps for guidance. Water management is crucial with limited reliable sources along the trail. Potential wildlife encounters including bears and cougars require consideration.
This is a scenic hiking trail in Ontario, Canada that stretches approximately 387 kilometres (240 miles) from Kingston to Ottawa. Established in 1971, the trail connects diverse landscapes and communities, providing an engaging outdoor experience. Key features include three sections – Kingston, Central and Ottawa – each managed by local clubs. The route follows the Rideau Canal with varying terrains from farmland to rugged Canadian Shield landscapes. Notable highlights are historical sites such as Perth and Smiths Falls and traversing the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve. The trail is marked with orange triangular blazes for northbound hikers and orange triangles with yellow tips for southbound hikers, while blue triangles indicate side trails. It’s recommended to hike the trail during spring through autumn when conditions are best; limited camping options are available along the trail, with nearby Bed-and-Breakfasts or hotels for accommodation. The Rideau Trail Association (RTA) manages trail maintenance and organises group hikes, encouraging membership for frequent users. Overall, the Rideau Trail offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The Skerwink Trail, located on Newfoundland’s Bonavista Peninsula in Canada, is a popular hike renowned for its beautiful landscapes and coastal views. Spanning approximately 5.3 kilometres (3.3 miles) in length, this moderately difficult loop trail features diverse terrain including flat areas, steep climbs with stairs and boardwalks and rugged coastal paths. Hikers can expect to encounter stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, sea stacks, cliffs, icebergs, whales and various wildlife such as puffins, foxes, eagles and flora. Accessible from Port Rexton with parking nearby, this trail is best visited during spring, summer and early fall for optimal hiking conditions. Amenities include an outhouse at the trailhead, with dogs allowed on a leash. The Skerwink Trail’s natural beauty and well-maintained paths make it a must-visit destination for avid hikers seeking to experience Newfoundland’s landscapes.
The Skyline Trail is an acclaimed hiking route situated within Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. Renowned for its breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain, it is one of the most popular backcountry trails in the Canadian Rockies. With a length of approximately 44 kilometres (27 miles) and a duration of 2 to 4 days, this moderate-to-difficult trail offers diverse flora and fauna against a backdrop of panoramic views. The route takes hikers through three mountain passes – Little Shovel Pass, Big Shovel Pass and The Notch – with elevation gains of about 1,410 metres (4,625 feet) and having its highest point at The Notch, 2,511 metres (8,238 feet). With numerous backcountry campsites like Curator Camp and Tekarra Camp along the trail, securing reservations is advisable due to high demand. Ideally hiked between late July and mid-September when conditions are most stable, the Skyline Trail provides an unforgettable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Sunshine Coast Trail is a world-class hiking experience in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. Spanning approximately 180 kilometres (112 miles) from Sarah Point to Langdale, this diverse terrain attracts outdoor enthusiasts with coastal views, forests and mountains. The moderate to difficult trail can be completed over 10 to 12 days and includes well-maintained paths, forest trails and coastal routes that offer breathtaking views of the Strait of Georgia and surrounding wildlife. Camping sites are available along the trail with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits for overnight stays. Hikers can enjoy the rich biodiversity, including various bird species, marine life and possibly black bears. The best time to hike is late spring through early autumn (May to October) when weather conditions are optimal. The well-marked trail makes navigation easy for hikers, making it an unforgettable journey into the natural beauty of British Columbia’s coastline.
The Trans Canada Trail, also known as The Great Trail, spans over 28,000 kilometres across Canada, connecting all provinces and territories from the Atlantic to Arctic oceans. This extensive trail network offers various activities, including hiking, cycling, paddling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The route includes urban connections to major cities, as well as extensions into pristine wilderness. The idea for the trail originated in 1992 and, owned and operated at a local level, the non-profit Trans Canada Trail organisation continues to improve accessibility and replace roadways with greenways. With eight out of ten Canadians living within 30 minutes of the trail, it provides opportunities for both locals and visitors to explore diverse landscapes.
The Voyageur Trail is a 500-600 km long-distance hiking trail system in Northern Ontario, offering a wilderness experience along Lake Huron and Superior shores. Established by volunteer clubs, it showcases rugged terrain with hills, streams, rivers and lakes. Key landscapes include King Mountain, Robertson Cliffs and Lake Superior vistas. Sections include Desbarats-Huron Shores (93 km, moderate to difficult), Penewobiking (48.5 km, moderate to difficult), Harmony-Stokely (38.2 km, difficult with steep climbs), Michipicoten (18 km, mostly difficult) and sections named after the Nor’Wester, Echo Ridges, Casque Isles, Saulteaux-Goulais. Known for its bushwhacking nature, hikers should download maps in advance and navigate using white blazes (main trail) and yellow blazes (loop trails).
The Wild Pacific Trail is a 9 km, easy and family-friendly hiking trail located in Ucluelet, British Columbia, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean’s rugged coastline. The trail comprises three main sections: Lighthouse Loop (2.6 km), Big Beach Section (5 km) and Ancient Cedars Section (1 km). Created by Oyster Jim Martin as a community-led project, it passes through various lands, providing wheelchair access at the lighthouse area and interpretive signs to enhance visitors’ understanding of the ecosystem. Highlights include spectacular ocean views, whale watching opportunities, storm watching in fall/winter, multiple viewpoints and benches. The trail does not permit bikes, horses, or motorised vehicles to preserve the fragile coastal environment. Visit anytime between April and October for an unforgettable experience.
The Wild Side Trail is an engaging 11 km hike situated on Flores Island in Clayoquot Sound, BC, near Tofino. This easy-to-moderate route offers a captivating journey through pristine wilderness and culturally significant landscapes for spiritual purposes, medicinal plant gathering, food collection and harvesting wood and bark. The terrain consists of sandy beaches, rocky shorelines and dense rainforest along the way. Hikers can camp at three designated sites: Sand Dunes Campsite (2 km), Kutcous River Campsite (5 km) and Cow Bay Campsite (end of trail). A trail permit is required and hiking without a dog is mandatory. Self-sufficiency gear should be brought, as water sources are available only at Katkwuuwis River and near Cow Bay. The trail is best hiked between May and September. This route offers a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Ahousaht traditional territories.
