Hikes in Canada

These regions in Canada are particularly suitable for hiking trips:

• Banff National Park: The emerald-colored Lake Louise is the most visited destination in Canada's oldest national park. A total of 1,600 km of marked hiking trails from easy to difficult run through the imposing mountains west of Calgary.
• Jasper National Park: The largest national park in the Rocky Mountains borders on Banff National Park to the north. Its pristine nature can be explored on a multi-day hike on the Skyline Trail.
• Vancouver Island: The wild, furrowed Pacific coast, pristine rainforests and wide sandy beaches are particularly impressive when trekking on the difficult West Coast Trail.
• Ontario and Great Lakes: The landscape in the hinterland of the cities of Toronto and Ottawa is characterized by countless lakes and dense forests. It is ideal for hiking – even away from the world-famous Niagara Falls.
• All around Québec: The huge province between Hudson Bay and the pulsating city of Québec is a dream destination for nature lovers. It is especially beautiful during the "Indian Summer", when the forests shine in bright colors.

If you want to explore the vastness of Canada on foot, there are a few important things to consider. Although thousands of kilometers of trails lead through the country, the network of hiking routes is nowhere near as dense or as well developed as for example in Europe. Those who deviate from the well-tended and marked trails in the national parks often end up on adventurous paths through lonely wilderness. An unforeseen encounter with a wild animal - from moose to grizzly bear - is not uncommon.

Preparation is a must for hiking trips to Canada: all routes should be carefully planned before the trip. Strict nature conservation regulations apply in the national parks, registration is mandatory and a fee is often charged. If you wish to go on a multi-day hike through a protected area, you will usually need a backcountry permit. Those are limited in popular areas, so it is better to put in a reservation a few weeks in advance. With a bit of planning, you can experience the untouched Canadian nature without large crowds.