Canada's best short and easy hikes

Canada offers some of the world’s best hiking and deciding where to hike in the country can be overwhelming. However, for visitors who prefer more gentle trekking experiences, this is our selection of Canada’s best short and easy hikes. 

Canada is the planet’s second-largest country and a hiking paradise. It features some of the world’s most spectacular natural landscapes, from the towering Rocky Mountains to British Columbia’s ancient forests. Its 38 national parks, 202,080-kilometre long coastline (the world’s longest), and pristine peaks offer myriad magically scenic trails. With such diverse terrain to explore, visitors are spoilt for choice. Glaciers, rivers, lakes, woodlands, massifs, canyons and beaches – take your pick. The solitude and serenity of its pristine wilderness, rich wildlife, and awe-inspiring views make Canada a compelling hiking destination.

However, not all visitors are able or eager to take a long or arduous trek. Nevertheless there are plenty of excellent hiking options for those with limited time, young children, or other restrictions. Here are some of the most scenic and rewarding of Canada’s short and easy hikes.

1. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, Nassagaweya Canyon Trail

Distance: 9.4km
Round trip Time: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Picturesque lookout points, exposed limestone cliffs and ancient cedar trees.

If you’re visiting Toronto and want to escape the city by immersing yourself in the forest, then head south to Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area.  This woodland hike takes in centuries-old cedar trees and the Niagara Escarpment’s formidable cliffs, where large turkey vultures roost. Another highlight is Crawford Lake, which was formed more than 10 000 years ago. It is one of the world’s rare meromictic lakes - a deep body of water composed of two separate layers that never intermix.  Contrary to what the trail’s name suggests, there are no rattlesnakes here. The park was named Rattlesnake Point because, from above, the stretch of escarpment within the park looks like a snake. The reserve is just an hour outside of Toronto, making it a quick and easy day trip from the city. However, you can camp at the park if you wish to stay overnight, although advance booking is essential. 

2. Cup and saucer trail, Ontario

Distance: 5km in-and-out
Trail time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Family friendly, four excellent lookout points and ladders and stairs to add variety.

The Cup and Saucer Trail is listed as one of the top five most beautiful trails in Ontario. It is ideal for families with children from about 10 plus and takes in several breathtaking viewpoints in a relatively short distance. The Main Trail leads through forests and ends at the iconic East Lookout. Here you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of  Lake Huron and Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. The trail's name comes from its unique geological formations, which resemble a cup and saucer. 

3. Kinney Lake Trail, British Columbia

Distance: 14km
Time: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Views of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies

The Kinney Lake Trail is a beautiful hiking trail in the Canadian Rockies. The trail is known for the serene Kinney Lake and its stunning mountain scenery, with Mount Robson stealing the spotlight. Its relatively easy accessibility and breathtaking vistas make it a popular choice for hikers of all ability levels. The Kinney Lake area is a photographer's paradise. The reflective waters of Kinney Lake often create mirror-like images of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photos. The park is also home to exceptional wildlife - keep an eye out for bears, elk and moose, among other species. Should you wish to linger longer in this idyllic environment, the park offers limited camping options. However, it is best to book onsite stays well ahead of time to secure your spot. 

4. Cathedral Grove, Vancouver Island British Columbia

Distance: 2.5km
Time: 1 hour (or as long as you like)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Some of Canada’s oldest and tallest trees 

Cathedral Grove’s forests are home to some of Canada’s most massive and ancient woodlands. The magnificent old-growth forest is home to enormous 800-year-old trees. There are three circular routes composed of dirt tracks and wooden boardwalks. The area’s highlight is the giant Douglas Fir, standing at 76 metres tall and with an 8.8-metre circumference. We recommend spending an hour or two forest bathing and afterward you can picnic and swim at Cameron Lake.

5. King Mountain, Gatineau Park, Quebec

Distance: 5.5km
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Fall foliage, sunset hikes, Ottawa city views 

Quebec offers a variety of beautiful hiking options in the autumn, where you can experience the stunning fall foliage and enjoy crisp, cool weather. Gatineau Park is known for its vibrant fall colours and it is just a 10-minute drive from Ottawa. The ascent is steep. However, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Gatineau Hills, and Ottawa city on a clear day. If you can, plan to hike for the sunset and bring a headlamp for your adventure back down. The trail’s close proximity to the city makes it one of Canada’s best short and easy hikes. 

Before you go

If you are hiking trails for the first time, take a conservative approach. Pick an adequate hike for your fitness level, pack water, food, and sunscreen, and take warm and wind-proof gear. In the height of summer, start hikes as early as possible to avoid heat exhaustion or sunstroke. And always check the weather before you go.

When to go hiking in Canada

Winter in Canada can be brutally cold; therefore, most of the country’s trails are best explored in the warmer months. However, popular routes can be extremely busy in season. If you want to avoid the crowds, shoulder season hiking is recommended.