By Robin Esrock

As the snow finally retreats into the shadows and green shoots appear among the blossoms, Canada's vast and varied landscape gears up for a season of outdoor adventure. While summer is undoubtedly our busiest season, and our winters are famed for world-class skiing and winter sports, late May and early June offer plenty of advantages for those looking to get outside early. As in life, timing is everything when it comes to a successful adventure, and Canada’s seasonal shifts have a big impact on where you go, and what and who you’ll discover when you get there.

In Canada, late spring and early summer represent a sweet spot for value and unmatched natural beauty. From late March through mid-June, our tourism experiences a shoulder season which means avoiding the crowds, more accessibility, and more availability. Even iconic destinations like Lake Louise in Banff National Park or Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia have fewer visitors in early summer, which changes the experience you’ll have in the Rockies, or on the rocks that greet the smashing waves of the Atlantic. Fewer people give the feeling of more space, allowing you to lose yourself in nature, and a chance to stop and smell the wildflowers without worrying about a forest of selfie sticks.

Late spring and early summer may bring unpredictable weather, but it more than makes up for it with a natural spectacle. Wildlife emerges hungry and active after hibernation or the long scarcity of winter, resulting in exceptional wildlife viewing. Migratory birds return in their thousands to wetlands across the country, creating a paradise for birders. Bears forage in the mountains, deer and moose calve in mountain meadows, and the annual cycle of rebirth kicks into full gear. Meanwhile, melting alpine snow can transform even the most modest waterfalls into a thundering cascade. For those in search of wildflowers, late spring and early summer see alpine or coastal meadows bloom into exploding carpets of colour.

Canada's reputation for extreme weather isn't entirely undeserved. It is generally freezing in winter, while heat and humidity can rocket in summer. When it comes to outdoor adventure, there’s a distinct Goldilocks zone that is ideal for hiking or biking. Sunny but not too hot, cool but not too cold. Peak summer adventure often has to deal with the heat, but June offers comfortable daytime temperatures. In Canada’s southern regions, the national average temperature hovers around 16–20°C (61–68°F), making it ideal for outdoor exercise. Moderate temperatures also mean you can tackle challenging trails without the need for constant breaks, or to carry litres of water. If you’re camping, expect to sleep soundly without suffocating summer heat or winter's bitter chill.

After the thaw, Canadian communities also spring back to life with exuberance and excitement. Farmers' markets sprout across the country with their first harvests, fishing villages along the east and west coast buzz with pre-season preparation, and Indigenous cultural experiences start-up their gears before the crowds of high-season arrive. As a result, shoulder season tends to be more relaxed, which gives you more time to engage with locals before the hectic rush of summer. This allows more time for more questions, more stories, and more authentic cultural encounters.

I’ve previously written about photography tips, especially in the fall when the colour of foliage begins to pop. Late spring and early summer also deliver a visual feast for photographers that is impossible to capture at any other time of year. The unique quality of light as winter transitions to summer can create dramatic conditions, such as low-angled sunshine illuminating landscapes with ‘golden hour’ conditions that last for hours. Changing weather systems also create atmospheric drama ideal for landscape photography. Lingering snow and emerging natural life create standout compositions for both amateur and pro photographers alike.

In my experience, the stories you remember always gravitate toward the moments you least expect. Perhaps spring's greatest charm lies in its unpredictability – a sense that anything might happen, and often does. With our East Coast Trail tours kicking off as early as the last week of May, you’re ideally positioned to view migrating icebergs before they melt into the sea, along with seasonal migrating whales. Unpredictability also requires a certain amount of flexibility. Yes, you might well encounter a surprise, unseasonal cold snap, on a hot or rainy day. But the rewards for rolling with nature's whims far outweigh the inconvenience. If you’re well prepared with layers and gear, you can embrace any adventure regardless of the weather.

In an era where Instagram-famous locations suffer from over-tourism and authentic experiences grow increasingly rare, late spring and early summer in Canada offer something unique: the opportunity to discover and experience extraordinary places before the rush of summer’s crowds, or the personal and professional exhaustion that follows. In tune with the transition of seasons, this is the kind of stuff that reconnects us to the essence of an adventure: the unpredictability, the challenge, and a sense of having discovered something that others might have missed. Spring adventurers often find themselves alone with Canada's bucket list landscapes and wildlife, wondering why everyone else hasn't discovered the benefits of early season travel. After all, the best adventures are those we discover for ourselves.

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List and The Great Global Bucket List.

By Robin Esrock

Some people swear by them, others think they’re entirely unnecessary. I first embraced hiking poles when I hiked the rugged West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, about a year after breaking my kneecap in an accident. I highly recommend the West Coast Trail, a true bucket list wilderness experience. I highly recommend you not break your kneecap. Fully aware I was taking on a challenging hike with a bum knee, I knew that hiking poles could be crucial, so I got stuck into the research.

The walking stick is nothing new. Shepherds always used wooden staffs to navigate hills, savannah and mountains while tending their flocks. In the Alps, shepherds and guides navigated treacherous paths with long wooden poles, eventually adding metal tips to steady themselves across snowy passes and slippery glaciers. Then as now, finding the right stick was something of an art: it had to match the correct height of the user, be comfortable to grip, sturdy enough to absorb weight, and solid enough to beat off a predator. Sticks would be picked up and disposed of at the end of the day, or treasured, crafted and decorated. Over one hundred elaborate walking sticks and staffs were found buried in Tutankhamen’s tomb, befitting a pharaoh known to have a club foot.

Not much changed until the 1970s, when ski manufacturers adapted their ski-poles for summer use, adding innovations like height adjustments, comfortable grips, and lighter materials. After widespread adoption by hiking and endurance pros, poles quickly became a must-have accessory. Today, hiking poles are recommended for both day and multi-day hikers, and you’ll find them on offer at outdoor retail stores worldwide. Scientifically, the benefits are clear.

Hiking poles can reduce the cumulative stress on your knees by up to 25%, especially during downhill descents when forces can reach several times your body weight. Anyone with knee issues - or in my case, a broken knee - will find this extra support worth its weight in gold. By adding a third or fourth leg, the poles distribute weight and pressure across your body, while also reducing strain on your hips, feet and ankles. Unstable screes, marshy terrain and rocky descents become considerably safer with the added stability. Beyond your knees, the extra appendage greatly improves balance, especially if you’re navigating unstable ground, crossing streams, or scrambling over slippery rocks. The rhythm of pole planting, much like an elliptical machine in the gym, adds extra full-body workout points, increasing endurance and speed. By improving your upright posture, you can also significantly reduce exertion. Keeping your hands steady at your heart level has been shown to improve blood circulation and prevent swelling too.

Taken together, poles become a no-brainer when packing for a multi-day hike like the East Coast Trail, the Bruce Trail, the Tombstone Range and other itineraries. While you might not need them on a well-maintained short trail back home, hiking poles in the Canadian wilderness can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a painful ordeal.

To get the maximum benefit, you’ll need to size your sticks correctly. The general rule: when you hold your poles with tips on the flat ground, your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle. If your elbows tilt up or down, adjust the sticks accordingly. Adjustments are also essential based on the inclination of the hill. For ascents, you’ll want to make your sticks slightly shorter (usually 5-10cm) to comfortably scale the hill. For descents, you make your sticks longer (usually 5-10cm, to add balance and support. Modern poles also have a slight spring to them, allowing them to absorb weight and act as shock absorbers. The easier it is to adjust your sticks, the more benefits you’ll see on the trail.

An adjustable mechanism is just one thing to look for when choosing poles at the outdoor shop. You’ll want to consider the grip material and feel, the weight, whether they fold or pack for flying, and what they’re made of. Carbon fibre poles are lighter but not as durable as aluminum, while aluminum is more solid, especially as a form of defence. As for grips, foam wicks away sweat while some hikers swear by cork, which over time conforms to your grip.

Modern hiking poles come in three distinct designs, each offering different advantages. Traditional telescoping poles adjust through overlapping sections that lock into place, offering the greatest length adjustability but the heaviest design. Telescoping poles are considered the most versatile option for varied terrain. Alternatively, folding poles have an internal cord system that snaps together like a tent pole, and while they are ideal for packing, they tend to cost more with less adjustability. Finally, fixed-length poles are fancy sticks: light, strong, streamlined, with no adjustability or packing mechanisms, but fine for a casual walk in the woods. As with all tools, the benefits of poles depend on the hiker using them, along with when, where and how they do so.

Popular pole brands in Canada and beyond include Black Diamond, MEC, Komperdell, Salomon, Leki, and cheaper options at Decathlon or Mountain Warehouse. At the time of writing, prices range from $40 to $400 (as with all outdoor gear, there’s a range for everyone). Should you forget your sticks, you can always channel the spirit of the shepherds: look around for a right-sized stick, elbow-grease a comfortable grip, and let it support you one step at a time, all the way home.

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List, and The Great Global Bucket List.

By Robin Esrock

International visitors to Canada will undoubtedly find some things familiar and others very different. Folks from the UK will see the late Queen on our money and many recognizable products on the shelves. Visitors from the USA will hear a softened North American accent (or something wholly different in Quebec and Newfoundland) but recognize many product brands. If you’re coming from Germany, Japan, France or Mexico, it’s going to feel very foreign indeed. Whatever your origin, expect to hear words, terms and phrases that are wholly unique to the north. Below is a handy primer to explain what they mean. Welcome to Canada!

CURRENCY:

Loonie: This is our gold-coloured Canadian one-dollar coin, named for the common loon bird depicted on its back. 

Toonie/Twoonie: Canada’s silver/bi-metallic two-dollar coin is our highest value coin. Loonies and toonies can quickly add up!

GST/PST/HST: Things cost a little more than what you initially see, with a federal goods and services tax (GST), provincial sales tax (PST) or HST (harmonized sales tax) added at checkout. This ranges from 5% GST and 7% PST in British Columbia to a combined 15% HST in Newfoundland. Alberta and Canada’s three northern territories only tack on 5% for GST. 

Debit or Interac: This refers to a bank card connected to the Interac network, for example, “We take credit and debit.”

FOOD AND DRINK

Double-Double/Single-Single: Tim Hortons, a coffee/doughnut/sandwich franchise, is as ubiquitous as our stop signs. When you order coffee, a double or single refers to the amount of cream and sugar. Double-Double is, therefore, 2 creams and 2 sugars.

Timbits: Still at Tim Hortons (a.k.a Tims or Timmies), you’ll find Timbits, small doughnut-hole sized pastries, ordered by the half or dozen. 

Pop: We don’t order a soda; we order a pop. Fast food chains give you a paper cup to fill up with pop at the ‘fountain.’

Mickey and Two-Fours: If Canadians ask you to pick up a ‘mickey of Jack’, they’re referring to a 375ml bottle of Jack Daniels. A Mickey is a small bottle of booze. A two-four is a case of 24 beers. 

Homo milk: Not a slur, but homogenized whole milk with 3.25% fat content, or full-fat. 

Serviette: You might call it a napkin.

Caesar: A popular Canadian cocktail similar to a Bloody Mary but made with Clamato (tomato juice made with clam broth and spices). Don’t mock it until you try it!

Rye: Also known as Canadian whisky, made with a single rye, barley, or corn grain. Crown Royal and Canadian Club are two popular brands. 

Screech: A rum sold in Newfoundland with 40% alcohol by volume. Used in a local welcoming ceremony that involves one getting “screeched-in.”

Brown bread: Do you want your eggs with white, multi-grain, sourdough or brown? Brown refers to whole wheat bread.

Poutine: Canada’s gift to world cuisine is French fries smothered in brown gravy with lumps of squeaky cheese curds. Don’t mock this meal-bomb until you try it, preferably somewhere in Quebec.

All-dressed: A hodgepodge savoury flavour with multiple ingredients, common in chips.

Beaver Tail: We don’t eat our national animal, but rather a fried dough pastry with sugar, spices, chocolate or other fillings. The pastry’s shape resembles a beaver tail.

PHRASES AND SLANG

Sorry: It’s true, Canadians apologize a lot, especially compared to our southern neighbours. But we’re not necessarily apologizing when we say sorry, it’s often just a form of courtesy, as in: “Sorry, I’m passing on the left!” 

Give'r: If you’re going to put in maximum effort or really go for it, then give’r!

Eh: This one comes up more in parodies than real life, but no doubt you’ll hear it at the end of a sentence, used for emphasis or as a question. For example: “It’s a great day on the trail, eh?”

Keener: Used to describe an enthusiastic person or overachiever. For example: “Mary’s opting for the extra miles today, she’s a real keener.”

Wind Chill: What it actually feels like out there, compared to the weather reports. It might only be 12°C/53°F, but with the wind chill, it’s colder than a polar bear’s toenails!

Fill ya boots: Sure, go ahead, help yourself. For example: “Can I have some extra poutine?” Go ahead, fill ya boots!

Gong show: A complete mess or chaotic situation, although the phrase is not always used negatively. For example: “Last night we got screeched on George St, and it turned into a total gong show!”

Snowbirds: Canadians who head south to winter in warmer climates.

Canuck: A common nickname for a Canadian, not to be confused with NHL hockey team the Vancouver Canucks. Montreal’s NHL team are called the Canadiens (with an e).

Skookum: Something that is strong, reliable, or impressive.

Hoser: A uniquely Canadian fool or idiot, although not always used in an insulting manner. For example: “Peter jumped into the frozen lake, what a hoser!”

CLOTHING

Toque: This is what we call a knitted winter hat or beanie, and it’s an essential item for any outdoor adventure in Canada (even in summer!)

Mukluks: Traditional warm fur-lined winter boots.

Anorak: A traditional pullover jacket.

Tilley hat: An iconic, packable, wide-brimmed Canadian-made hat for sun and shade. 

GEOGRAPHY AND PLACES

Maritimes: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island make up the Maritimes, but not Newfoundland and Labrador.

Atlantic Canada: OK, now you can include Newfoundland with New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island!

Up North: This usually refers to anywhere in Canada’s three territories (The Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut). Remember, more than 90 percent of Canadians live within 150 miles/240 kilometres of the US border.

Lower Mainland and GTA: The Lower Mainland refers to the Vancouver metropolitan area, while GTA refers to the Greater Toronto Area. Both encompass satellite cities and towns.

Click/Klick: This refers to a kilometre, for example: “Today we’ll be riding about 28 clicks.”

Out East/East Coast: Typically refers to Atlantic Canada, although people in Vancouver might refer to Toronto as out east.

Out West: Typically refers to British Columbia.

The Island: Canada has 52,455 islands, so ‘the island’ covers a lot! In B.C, it typically refers to Vancouver Island, and in the Maritimes, to Prince Edward Island.

YYZ/YVR/YYC etc: All Canadian Airports start with a Y. YYZ is Toronto, YVR is Vancouver, YYC is Calgary, YUL is Montreal, YYG is Charlottetown, YOW is Ottawa.

The Rock: A nickname for Newfoundland. For example, if you meet a local while hiking the East Coast Trail, they might ask you: “How ya enjoying your time on the rock?”

Chinook: A warm, unseasonal winter wind that blows from the mountains of Alberta and B.C.

Canadian Tire: A popular national store that sells just about everything except fresh food. Yes, they sell tires too.

Washroom: As an immigrant, this one took a while as I kept asking people where the toilet or bathroom was. Just go with washroom.

Cowtown: Also known as Calgary

T-Dot: Also known as Toronto (or T’ronna).

Parkade: What Canadians call a large parking garage, for example: “There’s ample parking in the adjacent parkade.”

Parks Canada: The government organization that operates and maintains Canada’s national park system.

Provincial Park: Provincially protected parks not under the auspices of Parks Canada.

NATURE AND OUTDOORS

Backcountry: In the wilderness.

Muskeg: A bog or swamp.

Portage: When you carry a canoe between waterways (and also the main thoroughfare in Winnipeg).

Inukshuk: An Inuit or Indigenous stacked stone landmark, traditionally used for navigation, similar to a cairn.

Animal corridor: An established wildlife migration route, typically in large national parks or backcountry areas.

Section hike: A shorter part of a much longer trail.

WEATHER

Celsius: Our temperature measurement is in Celsius as opposed to Fahrenheit. 0°C is the freezing point, as opposed to 32°F. That makes more sense, eh? Canada uses the metric system, but due to the influence of the USA, it’s not uncommon to hear people talk about miles, feet or inches.

Socked in: When heavy fog blows in or there’s poor visibility, you’re socked in.

Canadian expressions continue to evolve, and some are specific to certain regions or communities. Common throughout the country, however, is a universal sense of politeness, hospitality, and locals who will gladly engage you in a conversation. With a little help from this primer, you might even know what they’re talking about!

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of  The Great Canadian Bucket List, and  The Great Global Bucket List. 

By Robin Esrock

There's a moment on every outdoor adventure when you feel the lightning strike of hunger. One second, you’re peddling or walking along, and the next your energy drains out like water in a bathtub. It happened to me riding on the Confederation Trail in PEI, hiking in the Rockies, and riding through the lush forests of the Laurentians. It’s hard to enjoy the view when your stomach is mounting an intestinal insurrection! The difference between triumph and tribulation comes down to one crucial factor: what you pack for snacks.

Adventure snacking is both an art and a science, and timing is everything. A granola bar tucked into your daypack isn't just a treat; it’s strategic survival gear that boosts energy and morale when you need it most. The most practical tip is to eat something before you’re hungry and drink before you're thirsty. Once these physical sensations have kicked in, your performance has already started to decline. Blood sugar levels will have dropped significantly, possibly leading to an energy crash, mental fatigue, and that terrible feeling of hitting a wall. Thirst is actually a late indicator of dehydration, and even mild dehydration can reduce physical performance by a whopping 30%. Dehydration is serious because it makes your blood thicken, making your heart work extra hard to pump, which increases tiredness as well as cognitive functions. Much like cold, it’s much harder to catch up if you fall behind. Now that we’ve established why you should snack and hydrate, let’s look inside the snack pack. 

GORP has been fuel for outdoor adventures before there were outdoor adventures. Travelling with an energy-dense mix of nuts and fruits, easily stored and consumed, goes all the way back to hunter-gatherers. As a trail mix, Good Old Raisins and Peanuts (or Granola, Oats, Raisins, and Peanuts) became associated with hiking, backpacking and climbing in the 1960s, the perfect balance of quick-energy carbs from dried fruit and lasting protein from nuts. When I hiked the West Coast Trail, a few handfuls of GORP – with added chocolate chips, seeds and dried fruits - usually sufficed for lunch. Packing a few sandwich bags of your own, custom GORP mix literally goes a long way.

I've sampled dozens of brands across seven continents (yes, Antarctica too). The key is finding bars that combine natural ingredients with a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. My go-to combination is a bar that packs at least ten grams of protein, fibre for sustained energy, and natural sugars from dried fruits rather than artificial sweeteners. Right now, my go-to are VEL All Natural Cereal Bars, which don’t contain any ingredients I can’t pronounce. For nuts, I recommend cashews (rich in magnesium to help muscle cramps) and almonds (an ideal combination of healthy fats and protein). Apples and oranges are perennial hiker favourites because they’re durable, delicious, and full of natural sugars. Bananas are also popular for their high levels of potassium, but you’ll want to make sure they don’t get squashed all over your pack!

Temperature management is crucial too. Chocolate-covered anything becomes a messy disaster in high summer heat, while protein bars freeze into tooth-cracking bricks in cold weather. I suggest keeping temperature-sensitive snacks close to your body in winter and opt for heat-stable options in summer. A zip-lock bag of GORP stored in an easily accessible pocket has never let me down, regardless of the weather.

If you need a quick energy boost on the trail, few things rival the effectiveness of energy drops or chews. These concentrated forms of natural sugars provide an almost immediate surge of energy when you're hitting a wall. Energy gels and chews have come a long way from their artificial beginnings. Many now contain a sophisticated blend of different carbohydrate sources that your body can process simultaneously, allowing for better energy absorption without a sugar crash. Unlike processed sugars, honey offers additional benefits like natural antimicrobial properties and trace minerals that can help sustain your energy levels. A bar of dark chocolate can be a sweet treat, reward, or mood booster. I've found that keeping a small bottle of honey drops or energy chews in an easily accessible pocket really helps during those final challenging kilometres. Chase an energy drop with sips of water to help your body process the concentrated energy source.

Much like a high-performance engine, our bodies need both fuel and coolant to run efficiently. For every hour of moderate activity, you should be sipping 250-500ml of water. Your body also absorbs water better when paired with a small amount of food. That's why I coordinate my water breaks with a handful of almonds or dried fruit. Natural sugars and electrolytes help our bodies make the most of every drop. It’s always recommended to carry more water than you’ll actually need. Some people need to drink more than others, just as long you remain hydrated, especially if you’re sweating in warmer temperatures.

The art of adventure snacking isn't just about what you pack – it's about how you pack it. Careless placement will see messy or mushy results (see bananas above). You also want your snacks easily accessible, so you can avoid rifling through your pack innards in search of a quick nutritional fix. I keep my snacks organized in a soft packing cube, placed in resealable bags depending on what they offer: quick, sweet energy boosts like energy gummies or chocolate; nuts and seeds for sustained energy; and protein bars for hunger boosts. Even if I don’t get to the snacks, it’s reassuring to know they’re ready to go if needed.

Regardless of what you have in your pack, the best adventure snack is the one you actually eat. All the nutritional perfection in the world counts for nothing if it tastes like the wrong end of a beaver. Some protein bars in particular are guilty of packing in nutrition at the expense of taste. Before you head out, experiment with different products and combinations of GORP mixes, and test your snacking strategy on shorter outings before committing to a longer adventure.

The hunter-gatherers and early mountaineers who first combined dried fruits and nuts knew something fundamental about outdoor nutrition: sometimes the most basic combination of sweet and salty, quick energy and lasting protein, is all one needs to keep pushing toward the horizon. Pack wisely, fuel up frequently, and never underestimate the morale-boosting power of a well-timed trail snack.

Robin Esrock is the best-selling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List.

By Robin Esrock

There's something deeply ironic about destroying nature while trying to enjoy it. Yet that's exactly what millions of well-meaning hikers and cyclists do every year, leaving behind a trail of damage, garbage or trampled vegetation that would make Nature weep if she wasn't too busy dealing with climate change. Fortunately, tourism has embraced a variety of positive initiatives and environmental programs. We’re all learning to be more responsible and aware as we head outdoors in search of adventure. 

Watch Out for Micro-Trash
We’ve come a long way since the 1970s, and nobody in their right mind is dumping garbage bags in the bush. We all pick up the big stuff, but how often are we aware of the little things we leave behind? On a recent wilderness trip, my guide asked me to pay special attention to micro-trash. Even tiny pieces of granola bar wrapper, plastics, or fabric can greatly impact wildlife. Once I paid attention, I noticed all sorts of micro-trash and spent a little more time scooping it up for disposal. 

Leave Only Footprints
Pack it in, pack it out, or better yet, unpack before you pack. Place snacks and toiletries into reusable containers, avoiding unnecessary waste. Great Canadian Trails is fully aligned with Leave No Trace Canada, an international educational program to promote the responsible use of natural areas during outdoor recreation activities. For decades, the science-based Leave No Trace program has operated on some basic principles: 

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimise Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Your Hosts and other Visitors. 

It’s simple enough to read and follow, which is why the movement has enjoyed quick adoption worldwide. You can read more about Leave No Trace here. 

Top Gear
When preparing for an exciting outdoor adventure, it’s natural to start looking at new gear. Stronger, lighter, more rugged, more durable. But what about your old gear? The most environmentally friendly gear is the gear you already own. Your 10-year-old daypack might not have the latest suspension system, but it's got something better: zero waste or additional carbon footprint. When you need to replace or upgrade, look for gear from companies with solid environmental cred. Brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, REI, MEC and others now offer repair services and recycling programs. 

Stay On The Trail 
Trail braiding keeps park rangers up at night. It's what happens when hikers and cyclists create their own shortcuts, gradually turning single tracks into wide scars across the landscape. The solution is simple: stick to the designated trail. Switchbacks might seem unnecessarily long, but they're designed to prevent erosion and protect fragile ecosystems. Plus, they give you more time to appreciate the journey – and isn't that why you're out there in the first place? GCT itineraries are well-mapped and easy to follow, with plenty of time and space to responsibly follow your nose. 

Water Wisdom
We’ve seen enough plastic water bottles discarded on trails to fill a small lake. The alternative? A good-quality hydration pack or water bottle. Technology is a beautiful thing. These days, you can pick up water bottles with built-in filtration systems, which means you can fill up from a stream or river without worrying about bacteria, dirt, parasites, or even microplastics. Canada is blessed with an excellent public water supply. Let’s leave the plastic water bottles behind. 

Don’t Go Wild with Wildlife
We're visitors in their home. That means no feeding (even the cute chipmunks), no approaching, and definitely no selfies with animals, especially bears or moose (the things I’ve seen!) Keep your distance and your food sealed, but keep your camera handy. Great Canadian Trails has partnered with World Animal Protection (WAP) and follows an Animal Welfare in Tourism Code of Conduct. Most wildlife experts recommend staying at least 100 meters (that's a football field) away from predators like bears and wolves and about 30 meters from deer, elk, or other herbivores. On your bike? Double those distances – you're moving faster and more likely to startle them. 

Offsetting Carbon
Great Canadian Trails purchases carbon credits at no additional cost to its guests, investing in projects that include solar and wind energy generation, improved domestic stoves, and optimized waste management. These projects are professionally managed, accountable, verified by third parties, and aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. GCT itineraries are already low carbon emitting since they mostly rely on your own physical power to navigate the trails. GCT choose the least carbon intensive transport and accommodation available, while absorbing your carbon footprint with contributions to Canadian-based organization Planetair, which are then directed towards Gold Standard-certified projects and other climate initiatives. You can read more about GCT’s carbon-neutral initiatives here, including support for reforestation initiatives in Canada. 

Giving Back
Responsible travel benefits the environments and communities we visit. With this in mind, GCT is proud to financially support several vital organizations that steward the regions and trails on which they operate. Included in all tour packages that use the Trans Canada Trail - the world’s longest network of trails - is a donation to support ongoing trail maintenance and volunteer-led conservation initiatives. In Ontario, the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) is a volunteer-run organization that promotes and looks after the iconic Bruce Trail that runs along the Niagara Escarpment. When you sign up for one of the Bruce Trail itineraries, the company donate $50 to the non-profit organization. Similarly, the East Coast Trail Association (ECTA) is a volunteer-supported non-profit responsible for managing Newfoundland’s incredible East Coast Trail. Maintenance of this bucket list trail depends solely on donations, volunteers and membership fees. All trips on the East Coast Trail include a $50 donation to the ECTA to support its ongoing mission. Beyond this, GCT is a proud member of 1% for the Planet, a global network with thousands of businesses and environmental organizations working together to support people and the planet. This means Great Canadian Trails donate at least 1% of annual sales to environmental organizations. 

Be Nature’s Ambassador
When your outdoor adventure is over, and you get home, we hope you’ll be inspired to advocate for the regions you visited and how easy it is to do the right thing. Share what you learned about the conservation efforts you discovered, and consider donating cash or time to support the non-profit, volunteer-led organizations that help make it all happen. Every mile we ride or step we take is an opportunity to connect with the outdoors and protect it, too. Small, mindful practices can inspire our journeys with gratitude and respect—leaving behind not only the land as we found it but a legacy that inspires others to do the same.

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List, The Great Western Canada Bucket List and The Great Atlantic Canada Bucket List. 

Newfoundland and Labrador form the most easterly parts of Canada, and we can't help but notice that there is no shortage of superlatives in the region.

It’s here, in Canada's youngest province, that you’ll find many things that are the continent's oldest. The capital city, St. John’s, holds the title of the oldest city in North America, and when taking a stroll through its colourful centuries-old streets, you’ll discover a city full of character. To discover history from a much earlier era, travel farther north to L’Anse aux Meadows, the oldest Viking settlement on the continent. On the Labrador Peninsula, you'll find the rugged Torngat Mountains, which are, you guessed it, among the oldest in the world. Sensing a pattern here?

In addition to boasting a solid 'oldest things' list, Newfoundland and Labrador have also claimed a few, perhaps lesser known, titles. Have you ever wondered where you can find the foggiest place in the whole wide world? Yep, the honour goes to the Grand Banks, an area on the eastern coast of Newfoundland where the Labrador Current and Gulf Stream meet. Speaking of the coast, it's here that you'll find the most coastline in Canada: nearly 29,000 km. Canada, of course, has the longest coastline in the world, and this province contributes its fair share.

If you like wildlife, you should definitely head to this easternmost province, as it's in Newfoundland and Labrador that you'll find the highest density of moose on the continent. It also has the largest caribou herds and claims to have the biggest black bears... Now, this is starting to sound like an urban legend, but rest assured, it's all true.

Also scattered among the wildlife are some of the most helpful people in the world. Newfoundlanders were the first to respond to the distress call of the RMS Titanic, and when flights were grounded on 9/11, the small town of Gander opened its homes to thousands of stranded travellers. You can experience the locals' friendliness when you hit the trails in this stunningly beautiful part of Canada. That said, don't expect crowds; there is plenty of room to roam in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Interested in self-guided hiking in Newfoundland?
Lace your hiking boots and experience the best of the stunning East Coast Trail. 

Looking for otherworldly landscapes and the majestic beauty of Gros Morne National Park?
Head to Western Newfoundland and find the best trips in Gros Morne NP.

Blanketed in snow in icy temperatures, Canadian winters create a hostile and desperate environment. Only creatures well-adapted to the season’s challenge can survive, whether we have thick fur or a well-insulated parka. While bears, skunks and ground squirrels prefer to hibernate and wait for the season to pass, other wildlife change their habits and even their appearance to survive and thrive during our annual freeze.

Take the Arctic fox with a thick coat that shifts from summer brown to brilliant white each winter. In doing so, the fox becomes a ghost against the snow, virtually invisible to prey, predator and photographer. Its insulated fur can survive temperatures that plummet to -50°C, with fur-covered paws that act like natural snowshoes. In the same region, the Arctic hare also transforms from an earth-toned furball into a white puff that blends seamlessly with the snow. Forgoing hibernation, the hares huddle together to share their body heat, with a snowy camouflage that protects them from bird or canine predators.

Adapted to long, dark winters, wolves are highly social, intelligent and adaptable pack animals. They cooperate effortlessly to hunt their prey, from hares to caribou and moose. In frigid locations like Elsmere Island, where the sun doesn’t rise for four months, wolves hunt in pure darkness, protected by their double-layered fur as they roam hundreds of kilometres in search of food. Skittish and rare to see in the wild, the Northern Grey Wolf is found throughout Canada, save for the Maritimes. The Arctic wolf wanders the north while you’ll only hear the southern wolf howling at the moon in British Columbia.

In Canada, we should be singing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Caribou (although neither caribou nor reindeer sport red noses). What’s the difference between reindeer and caribou? Physiologically, they’re the same animal. Culturally, reindeer have been domesticated by Arctic peoples in Asia, while North American caribou remain predominantly wild. Caribou have specialized hooves that change with the seasons. Summer hooves are soft and springy to navigate the sparse, rocky tundra. In winter, hooves harden to better traverse snow and ice. Both male and female caribou grow antlers each season, used for defence and displays of dominance. If you see caribou or reindeer pulling a sleigh in the sky, you’ve put too much rum in your eggnog.

Moose belong in the same deer family as caribou but are much larger, darker, and solitary. I love the fact that in the UK, moose are known as elk, while elk in North America are correctly called wapiti. Most people still use elk instead of wapiti, the Algonquin word for this large deer. Both moose and wapiti thrive in winter, with long legs that act like natural snowplows, pushing through drifts that would completely immobilize smaller creatures. Like caribou, wapiti are smaller and more social than moose. Their hooves also differ: elk hooves are blunted and tooth-shaped for more migratory travel, while moose hooves are pointed and heart-shaped.

I’ve yet to see a lynx in the wild, and like wolverines, we’ll just have to rely on wildlife documentaries and nature magazines to believe these shy animals exist at all. Lynx have thick, dense fur and oversized padded paws, allowing them to stay warm and hunt quietly in the snow. Their prey is almost exclusively the snowshoe hare, and the relationship between predator and prey determines the population of both animals. Over time, the hare will evolve some survival tactics, and the lynx will adjust accordingly. This unique relationship has been studied since the 1800s. Lynx have thermal layers of fur, wide paws, and excellent camouflage against the snowy boreal backgrounds, making them difficult to spot or photograph.

The apex land predator in the north is the polar bear, the largest land carnivore on the planet. Ironically, Ursus maritimus is technically a sea mammal capable of swimming long distances. While polar bear fur appears white, their skin is actually dark to absorb more heat. Their fur is transparent, reflecting light and making them blend into the snow and sea ice. Unless you’re heading to the far north of the high Arctic, you won’t encounter polar bears in the winter. Cute as they are, polar bears are deadly hunters, spending 50% of their time searching for high-fat prey like seals. It’s a myth that they are the only animal that actively hunts humans, but like all carnivore predators, if you’re around and they’re hungry, you won’t be around for much longer!

The ptarmigan, a northern member of the grouse family, offers another dramatic winter transformation. As days get colder and darker, this ground-dwelling bird changes its entire plumage from mottled brown to pure white, becoming virtually indistinguishable from the snow-covered ground. White feathers grow between their toes, creating natural snowshoes, allowing them to walk across the most delicate snow surfaces. As their plumage changes with the season, ptarmigans gravitate to surroundings that match their camouflage. Ptarmigan (with a ’t' as you don’t pronounce the ‘p’) often hide from predators inside snow banks, where they are insulated from the cold and difficult to find.

High in the Rockies, mountain goats reveal another dimension of winter survival. This large goat will scale near vertical cliff faces, slippery with snow and ice, to ensure their safety from prowling wolves, cougars, and bears in the summer. They can hop up to 4 metres across the rocks, using muscular legs and specialized split hooves to grab and hold onto rock ledges. Perfectly adapted to freezing climates with shaggy, insulated white coats, mountain goats struggle to keep cool in warmer temperatures. Unlike regular goats, mountain goats are aggressively territorial and are known to knock each other off cliffs with their short, sharp horns.

Leaving mountains for the seas, it’s not unusual to encounter beluga whales in the St Lawrence River over winter. The world’s most southerly beluga population reside here year-round, although they gravitate closer to the gulf in winter after spending their summers upstream. With the Arctic as their primary habitat, belugas are well adapted to freezing temperatures, with thick blubber making up to 40% of their body weight and no dorsal fin to release heat or cause issues swimming beneath ice.

Harry Potter’s favourite type of owl is perfectly adapted to hunt a white, barren landscape. Snowy owls keep a sharp eye out for mammals burrowed in the snow. Their white plumage makes them difficult to spot in the snow or soaring above in a dull white sky. More familiar birds like ravens and whiskey jacks use their intelligence to get through the season, storing food and cooperating to ensure survival.

Move over, Hugh Jackman. Wolverines are the largest member of the weasel family, a small, shaggy, yet aggressive mammal known to take down elk, deer and caribou many times its size. Wolverines are about the size of a small dog, but good luck trying to pet one (if you’re lucky enough to encounter one in the wild). Shy wolverines thrive in winter, building deep dens in the snow, gliding over thick snow with their snowshoe-like paws, and taking advantage of the harsh conditions to hunt their prey. They’ll stash kills deep into the snow, keeping their meat fresh and frozen for future feeds. Dependent on winter conditions for their survival, warming temperatures directly threaten their survival.

A long Canadian winter tests the limits of survival. For these and other animals, extreme cold isn't a threat; it's home. Adapting physically or through behaviour, creatures of the north don't just survive the winter; they own it. As for humans, we’ll layer up, hit the slopes or snowshoe trails, and warm up by a cozy fire.

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List, and The Great Global Bucket List.

By Robin Esrock

Around the world, people often spontaneously burst into applause at sunset. It's a fitting reaction to a magnificent performance, and as the golden yolk dips below the horizon, the curtains close for the night. All the while, skies light up in the rich shades of stone fruit – all plums, peaches and apricots. Streaks of silver clouds, shimmering skies, glimmering waters - every sunset is a spectacle full of wonder and awe, especially when enjoyed in the Canadian outdoors. Here's a round-up of some of my favourites:

Lake Louise

There's a reason Lake Louise gets packed at sunset. It's easy to get to, and the viewing patio in front of the iconic resort is perfectly positioned for the bright turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks to spark up with the setting sun, inspiring countless photos. It's even better in the late spring or early fall when the crowds are thinner, and you don't have to work too hard to find a good spot. The sunset over Lake Louise is spectacular regardless of when you visit and is especially rewarding after the roundtrip hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House.

 

 

 

 

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Meadows in the Sky Parkway, Mt Revelstoke National Park

A few kilometres outside of Revelstoke is a paved 236-kilometre road to the summit of Mount Revelstoke. Here, a historic fire tower and wooden viewing deck look over summer wildflowers, sub-alpine forest, panoramic views of the Monashee Mountains, and a renowned mountain sunset. While we cover some of the trails that start at the base of the summit's Balsam Lake, Mount Revelstoke is the only summit in the entire Canadian parks system located just a short walk from an easy-to-access parking lot.

 

 

 

 

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The Okanagan

The Okanagan Valley has several ingredients for a perfect sunset cocktail: warm summers, large lakes, rows of vineyards, and no shortage of patios, beaches and views. Before kicking off our Kettle Valley Rail ride in Kelowna, head to Mission Hill Winery for an elevated sunset view over the sparkling Lake Okanagan, which you can enjoy with a glass of sparkling red or white wine. In Penticton, locals are known to pedal a short distance out of town on the KVR for the gorgeous summer sunsets over the lake. Another popular sunset view in Penticton is looking west over Skaha Lake from the sandy beach.

 

 

 

 

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St John's and the Avalon Peninsula

Sunrises and sunsets are so epic in this part of the world that you must find time to observe them from the East Coast Trail. Watching the sunrise over the continent at Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site is well worth the short drive out of St John's. If you're concluding your East Coast Trail at Cape Spear, the sunset is arguably just as significant. The ECT tracks the coast of the Avalon Peninsula, with no shortage of sunset vistas along the way. Join thousands of seabirds at the Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve, or add a fetching lighthouse into the mix with the view in Ferryland. If you're in St John's, the harbour at the nearby community of Bauline delivers sunsets with saltbox homes and fishing boats. Further out the city, locals rave about the panoramic sunset views at the Placentia Bay Lookout, a short drive outside of Arnold Cove. But you can also stay in St John's, watching the late afternoon sunshine light up the bright colours of Jelly Bean Row or the clapboard houses and fishing pier at Quidi Vidi and Petty Harbour.

 

 

 

 

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The Bruce Peninsula

Crystal coastline water and pristine terrain are some highlights awaiting hikers on the Bruce Trail. Daily sunset magic is another. The aptly named Sunset Point Park in Collingwood is popular with photographers for sweeping views over Georgian Bay. On the other side of the peninsula is the long sandy beach of Sable Beach, which gets rave reviews for the sunsets over Lake Huron. On our Bruce Trail itineraries, we visit the town of Lion's Head to enjoy hikes in the area, including the Lion's Head Lookout with its fantastic sunset views of Georgian Bay. If you take the opportunity to visit the quaint little town of Tobermory, catch the sunset from the Big Tub lighthouse or the rocks adjacent to the docks.

 

 

 

 

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Magdalen Islands

The archipelago in the Gulf of St Lawrence has epic sunsets over sweeping sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs and endless horizons. Sky colours are particularly vivid during the short, busy summer. The treeless island of Havre-aux-Maisons, one of the stops on our Magdalen Islands Haven Walk itinerary, is a popular sunset destination for both locals and visitors, particularly from the cliff-perched Borgot Lighthouse. Golden hour sunsets boost the colours of the colourful fishing boats, red cliffs, green hills and blue waters in the gulf, making it a particularly great time for photographs.

 

 

 

 

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Prince Edward Island

When it comes to sunsets, PEI can't help itself. We'll start on the island's north shore along the red sands of North Rustico Beach, located on one end of the Gulf Shore Parkway in Prince Edward Island National Park. The harbour and wharf of North Rustico have working fishing boats and wooden boardwalks and are perennial sunset favourites. Over in Anne of Green Gables country, Cavendish Beach bids the sun adieu with lovely views of the Gulf of St Lawrence. Rolling dunes meet a big sky and the ocean breeze. In Victoria-by-the-Sea, the westward-facing harbour and village are perfectly positioned for sunsets, lighting up the calm harbour waters. On the island's westernmost tip, West Point Lighthouse is renowned for its unobstructed sunset horizon, visible from a dramatic perch atop a red sandstone cliff. Whether hiking, biking, camping, or enjoying a meal on a patio, sunsets tend to find you. They're certainly a lot easier to catch than sunrises and tend to close out the day with moments of reflection, tranquillity and camaraderie. Bear in mind that sunsets are impacted by clouds, air quality, climate and your natural surroundings. Like fingerprints, no two sunsets are the same. And regardless of whether the sun appreciates your applause or not, you're guaranteed an encore in 24 hours.

 

 

 

 

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By Robin Esrock

After centuries of being brushed under the proverbial rug, mental health is finally receiving the attention it deserves. Unlike mental illness, mental health is something we all have to manage in our daily lives, referring to our emotions, stress, anxiety, relationships and connections. Yet, as life increasingly winds us up, there is some good news: outdoor activities have been scientifically proven to have a profound and positive impact on our mental health. Let’s dig a little deeper into how outdoor adventure can be both exhilarating and therapeutic.

The pressures of modern life come at us from all directions: work, family obligations, financial responsibilities, political upheaval, and a seemingly endless barrage of negative news. Think of nature as a sanctuary, a safe space to withdraw, retreat, and recalibrate. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking immerse us in an environment that operates at an altogether different pace. No hustle, no bustle, no deadlines, pinging messages, appointments, or busy calendars. Your goal is typically to get from A to B, enjoying scenic landscapes along the way.

Scientific research corroborates the stress-relieving effects of outdoor activities and travel in general. The World Travel & Tourism Council did a study showing that 80% of people aged 25 to 70+ reported improved general moods and outlooks on life as a result of travelling. Spending time in nature lowers cortisol levels, our primary stress hormone, reducing feelings of anxiety and tension.

Nature provides a sanctuary from the relentless demands of urban existence. Whether hiking through dense forests, kayaking across serene lakes, or simply basking in the warmth of the sun, being outdoors has a remarkable ability to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. The rhythmic movements associated with hiking or cycling also induce a state of mindfulness, allowing us to focus on the present moment and quiet the mind. Exercise is meditative, resulting in a profound sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Doom scrolling is a modern phenomenon with a horrendous impact. We’ve become addicted to information, thumbing through various news apps and fueling our fears with articles about what might or could happen instead of what does. The media operates on a founding principle of ‘if it bleeds, it leads’ because we’re biologically wired to pay more attention to bad news than good news. Bad news leads to more clicks, eyeballs and revenue, incentivizing a negative view of the world and what’s happening in it. Putting yourself in nature can turn off the 24-hour news cycle to focus on the beauty around you and the task at hand. You can’t hike or bike looking at a screen even if you have a cell signal. Outdoor adventure insists you take a break, improving your outlook while recalibrating your attention.

Beyond its capacity to alleviate stress, immersing oneself in nature has been shown to trigger the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters commonly referred to as the body's "feel-good" chemicals. These endorphins evoke sensations of euphoria and contentment, elevating mood and fostering a sense of well-being. Couple this with spectacular coastal or mountain scenery, a wildlife encounter, a dense forest, or a big sky sunrise, and it’s no wonder people get addicted to that all-natural outdoorsy high. It’s one of the reasons why studies have repeatedly demonstrated a strong correlation between time spent in nature and increased levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Beyond the physical challenge, outdoor adventure is also a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It requires a certain determination and resilience, as well as the courage and willingness to accept that you might have to transcend your personal comfort zone. All of which are crucial to increasing confidence and improving one’s self-esteem. Any adventure has the power to help us overcome the personal and physical boundaries that stand in our way. Along with it comes a true sense of accomplishment, reinforcing a positive self-image and showing us exactly what we can achieve at any age or fitness level. I can’t overemphasize just how good it feels to conquer a great hike or ride, especially when it is accompanied by a remote beauty few get to experience. From a mental health perspective, we become more resilient, confident, and grateful for the opportunities.

Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or casual day walker, choosing an outdoor adventure benefits your body, mind, and spirit in equal measure. Physically, we improve our cardiovascular health, strengthen our muscles, and improve our overall fitness levels. Mentally, we navigate new terrain, sharpen our focus, and meditate in the quiet, unhurried pace of nature. It’s an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual renewal, awe and wonder at a world that exists beyond rush hour and packed schedules. Simply reconnecting to the earth, sky, mountains, and seas is a powerful and all-natural prescription to the stresses of modern society.

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of the Great Canadian Bucket List and the Great Canadian Trails ambassador.

by Robin Esrock

Welcome to the world’s longest recreational multi-use path, stitching together hundreds of community trails across 28,000 kilometres (~17k mi). It’s impossible to imagine the Trans Canada Trail in size and scope, never mind the logistics and time it would take to hike or bike the entire length. Consider: if you were to hike 30 kilometres a day (19 mi), it would take you about 26 months to complete it, and if you crossed the United States five times, you still wouldn’t have covered the trail’s total distance. It’s more realistic to approach the Trans Canada Trail as a gigantic, unfinished jigsaw puzzle, one that can be gradually conquered, piece by piece. 

Since many of our itineraries take advantage of the adventure and natural beauty found along it, Great Canadian Trails has long supported the Trans Canada Trail. Every self-guided trip that includes a trail section also includes a C$50 donation to the Trans Canada Trail Foundation. This non-profit oversees the ongoing development, maintenance and promotion of the TCT. 

If you don’t know where to start, we’ve curated several itineraries that explore some of the trail’s natural, historical, and cultural highlights. 

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
East Coast Trail

The entire East Coast Trail is encompassed within the Trans Canada Trail, with the Cape Spear section designated as the TCT’s Kilometer Zero. Our unique self-guided East Coast Trail itineraries route along the most easterly sections of Canada as you hike through fishing communities, provincial and national parks, and endless coastal views. 

Don’t Miss: The Quidi Vidi Loop in St John’s is a scenic walk with gorgeous views over the old fishing village, the National Historic Site of Signal Hill, and St John’s Harbour.

NOVA SCOTIA
Rum Runners Trail

The 119km (74mi) Rum Runners Trail also forms part of the Trans Canada Trail, creating a multi-use recreational route that starts in Halifax and ends in historic Lunenburg. Cut along the south shore of Nova Scotia, the trail crosses communities like Hubbards, Chester and beautiful Mahone Bay, providing access to various scenic and historic sites along the way. The former rail-bed is well sign-posted with information kiosks, mostly flat, hard packed, and forms an important section of a province-wide cycling network. Our 6-day Rum Runners by Bike itinerary covers all of it, offering additional highlights like Peggy’s Cove and the region’s renowned lobster dinners. 

Don’t Miss: Take a walking tour around colourful Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn more about its long, unique history. You can also book an excursion on the Blue Nose II, the famous racing schooner that is engraved on the back of the Canadian dime. 

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Confederation Trail 

Completed in 2000, the Confederation Trail enabled Prince Edward Island to be the first province to fully complete its section of the Trans Canada Trail. Running tip to tip through Canada’s smallest province, it also provides access to the coast and many communities. The decommissioned rail trail is well-signposted, with frequent information boards and repurposed train stations. Our self-guided cycling trips in PEI curate the most scenic sections of the trail, including Anne of Green Gables country, Greenwich Dunes and the red shores of Prince Edward Island National Park. 

Don’t Miss: The Gulfshore Parkway is a paved, 10km (6mi) hiking or cycling route from Cavendish to North Rustico, running alongside protected coastal dunes, historic lighthouses, and windswept, red sandstone beaches. 

NEW BRUNSWICK
The Fundy Footpath

The Trans Canada Trail traces the east coast of New Brunswick, overlooking the Bay of Fundy in Fundy National Park. A UNESCO Biosphere Region, the Fundy Footpath follows the densely forested trail from the Point Wolfe Trailhead to the trail’s western end at the Big Salmon River. This 50km (31 mi) stretch is renowned for its scenic, rugged coastal beauty and the spectacle of the world’s highest tides (measuring up to 12 metres high) dramatically changing the coastline. While the cliffside path and steep hills present plenty of challenges, hikers also cross the exposed ocean floor during low tide and camp on stunning beaches. GCT’s Fundy Footpath itinerary navigates the tides and route, prepares your campsite meals, and conveniently shuttles your luggage to each campsite along the way. 

Don’t Miss: Before leaving New Brunswick, make sure you order at least one lobster or lobster roll, which is proudly and freshly served in restaurants and lobster shacks along the coast. 

ONTARIO
Niagara Peninsula

This week-long, self-guided cycling itinerary tracks the Trans Canada Trail as it skirts the shores of Lake Ontario, Lake Erie and the lovely Niagara Peninsula. Starting and concluding in Niagara Falls, the TCT joins up with one hundred kilometres of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail network, which connects 155 communities along the route. The Friendship Trail, a 16-kilometre (10 mi) stretch of abandoned railway that cuts through the town of Fort Erie, also intersects with the TCT as it rolls through lush countryside, pristine watersheds and charming small villages. 

Don’t Miss: In summer, historical reenactors fire their muskets in daily demonstrations inside the National Historic Site of Old Fort Erie, recalling the siege of the fort during the War of 1812 between American and British forces. 

QUEBEC
Le P’tit Train du Nord

This 240km (150 mi) section of the Trans-Canada Trail is a decommissioned railway line, originally built in the 1890s, running from Mont Laurier to Bois-des-Filion. As a result, the terrain is mainly flat, slicing through forests, small towns, valleys and lakes. Old train stations have been converted into information centres and rest areas, and each town or village ensures you’re never too far away from cafes and bistros. The P’tit Train du Nord rail trail is particularly friendly to families and those seeking a less arduous multi-day cycling challenge. We’ve curated a route between the villages of Saint Jerome and Val David, shuttling your bags ahead so you can stay overnight in colourful communities after your scenic ride through the Laurentians. Don’t Miss: This section of the Trans Canada Trail ushers you straight into Mont Tremblant Ski Resort’s vibrant lakeside pedestrian village. 

ALBERTA
Canadian Rockies

From Edmonton, the Trans Canada Trail splits, heading north and south. The southern trail cuts through the peaks of the Rockies, including the 80-kilometre-long (50 mi) High Rockies Trail, which is particularly rugged and challenging. There’s also a 20-kilometre (12 mi) paved path that follows the TCT adjacent to the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff and Canmore. We’ve curated the most scenic day hikes in and among the national parks of Banff and Jasper. 

Don’t Miss: In Kananaskis country, the Prairie View Lookout Trail delivers the contrasting view between the soaring peaks of the Rockies and the rolling flat prairies heading east to Calgary. 

BRITISH COLUMBIA
Kettle Valley Rail Trail

After meandering through the Rockies and forking into two routes heading north and west, The Trans Canada Trail follows the Elk River to slice through the Columbia Mountains and follow the trail of the Kettle River. Here, it becomes part of the Kettle Valley Heritage Trail, a former passenger CPR rail line in the Okanagan. The multi-day cycle trips between Kelowna and Penticton offer sweeping views of Lake Okanagan and Lake Skaha and plenty of time to roll into the vineyards on the highly-rated Naramata Bench. 

Don’t Miss: Painstakingly cut into steep cliffs east of Kelowna, the Kettle Valley and Trans Canada Trail include the Myra Canyon Trestles, a 12-kilometre (7.5 mi) trail that passes through 18 impressive wooden bridges and two rock tunnels. 

Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucketlist.