6 Stunning Hiking Trails in Canada That You Probably Never Heard Of
There are 10 provinces in Canada, and each offers a number of beautiful views. From the grasslands of Saskatchewan to the mountains of Alberta, you can find hikes of varying difficulties. However, each provides their own challenges and chances to make great memories.
Hike the Boreal Trail
On the western edge of Saskatchewan is the 151 mile Boreal Trail. You'll find plenty of spots for rustic camping. There are also many spots to stop and watch the birds on any one of the lakes on this trail. The trailhead starts at Cold Lake and follows the Waterhen River to loop around Second Mustus Lake.
This is bear country, but bear boxes and pit toilets are provided at several points. Make sure that your hiking backpack includes plenty of trash bags and that you carry water and snacks for a quick break before getting back on the trail. Be prepared for mosquitoes as well. However, the water views, autumn leaves and wildlife will more than make up for the bugs.
Check Out Fundy Bay in New Brunswick
Not all hikes have to include a mountain to be remarkable. Strap down your hikers and take the 12 km Bouctouche Dune out into the Northumberland Strait. If you have the choice between leather hiking boots and mesh, wear the leathers to avoid filling your shoes up with sand. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for seals as well.
You will need to make sure your pack is fully loaded, including
- drinking water
- food
- trash bags
- urinary funnel for women
There are no facilities on this hike. There are, however, plenty of chances to enjoy peace, calm and a little trail therapy.
Hike the Falls of Manitoba
For experienced hikers ready to get their heart rate up, a hike from Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls. You'll spend quite a bit of time on manmade features as well as natural trails. There's a suspension bridge to start your hike, after which you'll enjoy a long grassy stretch.
Just when you start to wonder where the difficult rating comes from on this 17 mile trail, you'll hike the Phillips Lake side. Doing this in one day will be a hard haul, but there are many rustic camping sites and chances to sit and air your feet. Keep an eye out for bears and moose.
Finally, try to do the lake loop on a cool day or in the morning. There is shade but not much of a breeze.
Check Out the Inglis Falls in Ontario
You don't have to go to Niagara falls to enjoy a remarkable water feature in Ontario. The Inglis Falls hike is not hard, but the views of the falls and the other features of this conservation area are well worth taking the trek more than once.
This waterfall is nestled between the Nottawasaga Bay and Lake Huron, just north of Toronto. If your vacation plans include time in the city and you need a bit of wilderness, Inglis Falls is a great spot to get in a 7 km hike.
North of here you'll find the Bruce's Cave Conservation Area and Sauble Falls Park. There's also great camping in this area. Take this hike early if you're here in the summertime. There is no swimming allowed in these waters, but you can hike down to the base of the waterfall and take a break, letting the spray cool you off.
Take a Private Hike in the Skoki Backcountry
While the beauty and grandeur of the Rockies are well known, the Skoki Backcountry is a hike within a hike that you can enjoy in privacy. Getting to the trail generally requires a 9 km hike up a fire access road, but with an Alpine Guide, your White Mountain Hike can take you to
- Hidden Lake
- Ptarmigan Lake
- Redoubt Lake
You'll enjoy hikes up to 14 km with only 300 to 400 meters in elevation gain. Be aware that this hike starts at high elevation; be ready to layer up and strip down as needed and bring sunscreen, water and a hat.
Learn to Snowshoe!
If you're a skilled hiker but have never put on a pair of snowshoes, it's time to face the powder. Your trip to the Banff National Park will start with a gondola ride, so the majority of your elevation gain will be taken care of mechanically. Once you're at the top of Standish Mountain, you will be able to
- cross the continental divide between British Columbia and Alberta
- get a 360 view of the pass, including Mt. Assiniboine
- study the Sunshine Meadows and Simpson Valley from the top of a mountain
This guided hike is quite family friendly and offers many chances to learn new skills. However, your guide will need to approve your gear. Winter weather can be tricky. If you're not properly prepared, including boots, weather appropriate coat and pants, goggles, hat and gloves, you may be turned back for your safety.
Hiking is good for your body and your spirit. You don't have to go far to find a great hike near your city, though you will need great gear and a quality pair of shoes. Find easy hikes near you to test out all your gear before you put in serious trail time to make sure that your first long distance hike is a blast.