Canada's captivating and varied landscapes create an ideal haven for hikers. Stretching from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the lush rainforests of British Columbia, this expansive nation presents a wide range of hiking expeditions suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you seek thrilling experiences to fulfil your bucket list or aspire to explore hiking opportunities in Canada's pristine wilderness, here are 5 Hiking Adventures In Canada You Must Experience! Explore our handpicked collection of Walking Holidays in Canada.
photo credit: Robert Sachowski
1. Polar Bear Photo Walking Safari, Manitoba
Churchill, Manitoba, the "Polar Bear Capital of the World," is a hiker's dream with stunning photo opportunities. Journey on a polar bear walking safari – think "Man vs. Wild" on steroids. Kick off with a thrilling one-hour flight for aerial views of elusive polar bears and exotic creatures. The following days are spent on foot, tracking the Great Ice Bear, with bonus chances to capture the mesmerising Northern lights.
Trek across the tundra, exploring iconic sites like the Itsanitaq Museum, Polar Bear Jail, and Parks Canada exhibit. Churchill promises the time of your life. So, get those hiking boots ready; this adventure is a wild hike you won't forget!
photo credit: Dre Erwin
2. Northern Lights, Churchill
No Canadian hiking adventure is complete without the mesmerising Northern Lights expedition. And Churchill, Manitoba, is your front-row ticket to this explosive light show!
Located beneath the auroral oval, Churchill, Manitoba, is a top spot to witness the awe-inspiring aurora borealis, One Of The Seven Natural Wonders of the world. The best part? You can enjoy the northern lights here all year round.
For six glorious days, unearth local culture with activities like snowshoeing and dog sledding through the boreal forest. Visit the museum and enjoy a meal at Dan's Dinner by the Churchill River. At night, board a tundra buggy to witness the aurora borealis. With fresh spots to view this cosmic show each night, this hike under Churchill's night sky is a must!
photo credit: attilio pregnolato
3. The Canadian Rockies
Nestled in western Canada, the Canadian Rockies enchant hikers with options for serene strolls or epic wilderness adventures. This 6-day epic hike Starts in Banff National Park, a gateway to the Rockies' wonders.
Explore Kootenay National Park for surreal nature encounters. Amid rugged terrain, choose from three options: hike to the largest backcountry lake, Sherbrooke Lake, or ascend Paget Lookout. And don't forget the stunning Wenkchemna Peaks and Lake Louise.
For a laid-back experience, visit Yoho Valley with its breathtaking views. Alternatively, enjoy the tranquillity of Helen Lake Trail's alpine meadows. And for the daring souls, the "Plain of Six Glaciers Trail" promises a wild, challenging ride culminating in heart-pounding, awe-inspiring panoramas. The Canadian Rockies is a hiker's paradise with a tapestry of natural beauty and adventure.
photo credit: EB Adventure Photography
4. Newfoundland Atlantic Charm and Undiscovered Wild
Trek from the glittering expanse of Trinity Bay to Fogo Island, and it's another one of the hikes on this list that will make you fall in love with the wild beauty of Canada.
Explore Newfoundland’s Atlantic charm in its quaint fishing communities, scenic islands, and hidden trails. The beautiful sights of the city's diverse homes will astound you at every turn as you explore its historic streets. Hike to the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean at the top of Signal Hill. Trinity, widely considered one of the region's most visually arresting villages, never ceases to captivate visitors. From the awe-inspiring hiking paths to the exotic wildlife you'll encounter on the stunning ferry to Fogo, Newfoundland will intrigue even the most discerning hikers.
5. Canada's Big Five Safari
Why end your search for invigorating Canadian hiking adventures when you've not embarked on Canada's Big Five Safari? Starting from Winnipeg, venture to the breathtaking Riding Mountain National Park in a group of 18. Here, Manitoba's boreal forests, meadows, lakes, towering heights, and deep gorges serve as the backdrop for an extensive array of exotic wildlife. Whether you opt to savour evening drives while capturing incredible wildlife through your lens, take on interpretive hikes, explore the rugged tundra and boreal forest, or immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience—all while keeping an eye out for the majestic polar bear during a tundra buggy excursion—this hiking adventure will leave you absolutely breathless!
The country’s vast lands offer endless opportunities for hiking enthusiasts to explore and connect with nature. Irrespective of what your goals are, be it a quest for rugged wilderness or explosive photo opportunities, these 5 hiking adventures in Canada will offer a wholesome experience for your next Canadian expedition.
