The Best Hiking Trails in Canada (and What to Wear)
From neighbourhood strolls to secluded mountain excursions, here are six great reasons to take up hiking — plus, what to wear for each adventure.
There's a reason these hiking trails are never empty on a long weekend. Whether it's the stillness of an old-growth forest, the payoff of a summit view, or simply the relief of venturing out into nature to disconnect for a few hours, hiking has a way of resetting things that very little else can.
Of all the ways to explore Canada's wild places, it's also one of the most accessible — but that said, dressing properly can make the difference between a great day on the trail and an uncomfortable one. The good news? Performance dressing doesn't mean sacrificing style.
Here are six of our favourite trails from coast to coast to get you started, plus what to wear for each.
Macmillan Provincial Park
Visitors flock to Vancouver Island's Macmillan Provincial Park — formerly known as Cathedral Grove — for one reason: the trees. Short loops to either side of Highway 4 meander through ancient groves of majestic Douglas firs, some over 1,000 years old and reaching heights of 100 metres — the equivalent of a 30-storey building.
While a windstorm in the 1990s felled many of the park's largest trees, one of the great survivors measures an astonishing nine metres in circumference.
The short, well-maintained loops at Macmillan Provincial Park make this one of the more accessible hikes on the list — but the variable Pacific Northwest weather is another story. Layers are essential: start with a moisture-wicking base layer, like a T-shirt or undershirt, add a lightweight mid-layer for warmth — like a form-fitting Merino wool or technical fabric sweater — and top with a waterproof shell to guard against the region's famously unpredictable rainfall.
On feet, a pair of sturdy trail shoes or light hiking boots with good grip will ensure safe footing on the uneven forest floor, while a pair of quick-dry pants — joggers preferred — will provide all-day comfort on the trail (no matter the weather).
Stawamus Chief
It's no wonder Vancouverites have a reputation for exploring the outdoors — the hiking trails in their backyard are exceptional. About an hour's drive from downtown in the Sea to Sky Corridor, this intermediate-rated trail takes three to six hours depending on your pace and chosen route.
Locally known as "The Chief," it winds up one of North America's largest granite monoliths, rewarding hikers with spectacular views of Howe Sound.
The Chief not only demands respect, but the right gear, too. This is a sustained, physically demanding climb on exposed granite, so sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and reliable grip are non-negotiable — look for something with a heavy lug or commando sole.
Breathable, moisture-wicking layers like T-shirts and light sweaters are essential for the ascent, but temperatures can drop significantly at the summit, so don't forget to pack an insulating mid-layer and/or a windproof shell.
Depending on the season you set out on your hike, opt for either pants or trail shorts, but either way, ensure they're made of quick-dry material in case of an unexpected shower.
Heading out on a long hike, or one where you expect to encounter showers? Packing an extra pair of socks to change into when yours get wet or sweaty might just be the best hiking hack you'll ever hear.
Lake Agnes Tea House
One of Banff National Park's most beloved hikes, this moderately difficult 3.5-kilometre out-and-back begins at the shores of Lake Louise and winds through forested trails to the Lake Agnes Tea House — serving homemade cakes and stunning mountain views since 1905. Set out early to beat the crowds, and come prepared with cash — the tea house is card-free.
Mountain weather in Banff is famously fickle, so layers are your best friend on this trail. While you don't have to wear them all at once, bringing a moisture-wicking base layer, a lightweight fleece or insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell will ensure you're prepared for whatever greets you at the tea house.
Sturdy trail shoes or light hiking boots are recommended for the rocky terrain along the forested trail, though a sturdy pair of trail-ready sneakers from Salomon, Hoka, or New Balance would serve you just as well. And given the elevation, sun protection — a hat, sunglasses, and SPF — is always worth packing, even on overcast days.
Valley of the Five Lakes
This classic Jasper hike is a series of loops ranging from three to nine kilometres and rising just 100m in elevation, making it suitable for all ages and experience levels. You’ll walk through a forest and cross a footbridge over the Wabasso River before reaching a series of five lakes (hence the name).
Their typical blue-green water (the product of glacial rock dust and algae) makes for perfect reflecting pools for the towering mountains above.
The relatively gentle elevation gain makes this one of the more relaxed hikes on the list, but Jasper's mountain climate means you should still layer up. A breathable Merino wool or synthetic-blended base layer and lightweight mid-layer will cover most conditions, though a rain jacket on standby is always a good idea for surprise afternoon showers.
Trail shoes or sturdy sneakers are sufficient for the well-maintained paths, though waterproof soles are a welcome feature earlier in the season when the trails can be soft. A pair of comfortable hiking pants or trail shorts rounds things out — with trail shorts the natural choice if you're hiking during the summer months.
Rouge Valley Loop
Much of the appeal of this 9-kilometre loop lies in its proximity to the GTA. Located in Rouge National Urban Park — the first national park designated within a Canadian city — the trailhead is less than 45 minutes from downtown and accessible by public transit.
The trail winds through classic southern Ontario scenery, with meadows and forests home to birds and deer, and salmon migrating up the Rouge River to spawn in late fall. One practical note: the trail gets muddy in places, so waterproof footwear is a must after wet weather.
Rouge Valley's proximity to Toronto doesn't mean preparation should be taken lightly. This hike's varied terrain — including forest paths, meadows, and river crossings — calls for waterproof trail shoes or light hiking boots, especially after wet weather when the trail is known to get muddy.
A breathable, moisture-wicking base layer and a packable rain jacket (hint: Canada Goose makes a few great ones) are the essentials here, along with comfortable hiking pants that can handle the occasional muddy patch. Oh, and insect repellent is a must during the warmer months.
Gros Morne National Park
There's nowhere else in Canada quite like Gros Morne National Park. Dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and the Tablelands — one of the few places on earth where you can walk directly on the planet's mantle — make it a destination unlike any other.
Less demanding than the popular Gros Morne Mountain day hike, this five-kilometre loop begins with a steep climb up Partridgeberry Hill before opening onto a scenic highland plateau. A pair of red Muskoka chairs positioned to face the view of Bonne Bay makes for a perfect place to catch your breath.
Newfoundland's maritime climate is among the most unpredictable in the country, and Gros Morne is no exception. Waterproof, breathable layers are essential — don't set out without a moisture-wicking base, an insulating mid-layer, and a hardshell jacket that can stand up to wind, rain, and rapid temperature changes.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are a must for the steep initial climb up Partridgeberry Hill and the uneven highland plateau beyond. Regardless of the forecast (or season, for that matter), a hat and gloves are always worth tucking into your pack.
Just like setting out on a hiking trail, starting your style journey should feel suited to you and your unique preferences.
The best way to get started? with one of our expert Style Advisors. Whether it’s advice for a specific occasion — from hikes to job interviews to your wedding day — or a holistic wardrobe refresh, one-to-one style advice is just a call, click, or visit away.
- Moisture-wicking T-shirt
- Lightweight fleece or Merino wool sweater
- Waterproof shell
- Trail shoes or boots
- Technical pants or shorts
- Protective hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
- First aid kit
- SPF
- Water bottle
- Cell phone
- A friend
