Next-Level Hiking: Canada’s Top 3 Trails for Serious Adventure Seekers

If you’ve already ticked off the Alps, the Highlands, and the Dolomites, it might be time to take your hiking to the next level and leave the relatively familiar confines of Europe. Canada offers some of the most spectacular and varied trekking experiences on the planet and has never been easier and cheaper to access. Whether you’re drawn to wild coastlines, glacier-fed lakes, or rugged mountain peaks, these three trails deliver unforgettable adventures and should give you a solid idea of the kind of adventures that potentially await you north of the US border.

West Coast Trail – British Columbia

Stretching 75 kilometres through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island, the West Coast Trail is the stuff of real hiking legend. This multi-day trek isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s famous for its mud, ladders, log crossings, and dramatic suspension bridges, so if you have a fear of heights you might want to sit this one out. But it’s also unmatched in coastal beauty. Expect waterfalls, dense rainforest, beach hiking, and the chance to spot whales just offshore.

The trail’s remoteness only adds to its appeal, offering a sense of wilderness that’s increasingly rare. Many travellers pair this rugged trek with more relaxed days in nearby cities. After tackling the trail, you can also unwind with many of the region’s famous downtown cafés or even fit in some scenic cycling.

Plain of Six Glaciers – Alberta

Located in the heart of Banff National Park, this 14 km round-trip trail is a highlight for those visiting the Canadian Rockies. Beginning at the iconic Lake Louise—easily one of the best lakes in Banff—the hike winds through forests and across rocky terrain before opening up to sweeping views of hanging glaciers and towering cliffs.

The moderate climb includes a charming teahouse about halfway up, offering fresh baked goods and hot drinks in one of the world’s most scenic spots. It’s a rewarding day hike that combines accessibility with high-impact visuals. While less gruelling than the West Coast Trail, it still delivers serious mountain vibes and a chance to experience Alberta’s pristine alpine landscapes up close.

Gros Morne Mountain Trail – Newfoundland and Labrador

Looking for a hike that feels like you’ve left the planet? Gros Morne Mountain delivers. This 16 km trek takes you into Arctic-alpine terrain, with steep ascents, rocky ridges, and views of ancient fjords carved by glaciers. Located in Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the trail leads to a summit offering jaw-dropping 360° vistas.

It’s wild, remote, and far less trafficked than the more famous trails out west—ideal for hikers craving solitude and raw nature. With its dramatic topography and challenging elevation gain, it’s one of the most rewarding hikes in Eastern Canada.

For UK adventurers ready to venture beyond the usual hiking routes, Canada offers epic trails with a side of untamed beauty. Whether you’re flying in for one hike or stringing together multiple adventures via canada cruises, this vast country is pure hiking heaven.