Getting outside is at the heart of Canadian culture. From snowcapped mountains to dramatic seaside cliffs, ancient forests to valley glaciers, this country is home to a vast variety of natural wonders. While the landscapes may differ from coast to coast to coast, Canada's beauty is something to be proud of no matter where you live.
But did you know that you can explore every province and territory along the Trans Canada Trail? It's the longest multi-use recreational trail network on the planet, stretching 27,000 kilometres and connecting more than 15,000 communities.
The Trail isn't just made for walking either. You can bike, paddle, snowshoe (and so much more) as you uncover special corners of the country at every turn. Made up of a wide array of landscapes — suburban, wilderness, greenways, waterways and roadways — the nation-wide mosaic has something for everyone, all year round.
So get out your pen and kick off your bucket list with these eight recommendations for must-visits along the Trans Canada Trail. As always, remember to check with local health and safety guidelines before heading out on your trip.
Discover Natural Wonders At Whiteshell Provincial Park & Trail
Price: Free, parking fees apply
Address: Whiteshell, MB
Why You Need To Go: As one of Manitoba's most-visited parks, Whiteshell is popular with visitors in all four seasons who come to take in the wild and dramatic landscape of the Canadian Shield, located along the Trans Canada Trail.
The lookout is called Top of the World for a reason. From this spot, you can enjoy a clear, panoramic view of the park's boreal forests, making this 2.5-kilometre section of the trail perfect for avid landscape photographers.
Bike Along Le Corridor Des Cheminots
Price: Free
Address: Quebec City, QC
Why You Need To Go: Stretching 22 kilometres, this multi-purpose path (and former railway) is accessible for bikers, pedestrians, people with reduced mobility and inline skaters.
Winding through the Quebec City boroughs of Cité-Limoilou, Les Rivières and La Haute-Saint-Charles, this path is an excellent way for locals and tourists alike to explore this section of the Trans Canada Trail and see the city from a whole new perspective.
Take In The Vast Beauty Of The Itijjagiaq Trail
Price: Tour prices vary
Address: Baffin Island, NU
Why You Need To Go: This remote backcountry hike through the frozen tundra is certainly one for the bucket list. Hikers adventure on this trail through the Arctic during summer, giving way to snowmobilers and dogsledders in winter.
Visitors would be wise to hire a local guide to get the most out of this mostly unmarked section of the Trans Canada Trail.
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Get Your Adrenaline Pumping On The High Rockies Trail
Price: Free, parking fees apply
Address: Canmore Kananaskis, AB
Why You Need To Go: Travelling through three provincial parks in Alberta, this trail spans a whopping 80 kilometres total. Ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, snowshoers and even skiers in some sections, the High Rockies Trail is an adrenaline junkie's delight. Take in the mountain air and diverse landscape as you trek through the forest to reach the fantastic lookouts along the way.
Visitors will likely want to explore this lengthy route in sections, and there are several access points to choose from along this section of the Trans Canada Trail.
Explore The City of Bridges On The Meewasin Trail
Price: Free
Address: Saskatoon, SK
Why You Need To Go: Locals will tell you that the city of Saskatoon is characterized by the South Saskatchewan River, which cuts right through the middle of the city. Along the banks of the downtown core are scenic riverside trails just waiting to be explored.
This section of the Trail is all about the urban experience: from heritage sites to bridges, riverside cafes to farmers markets, you'll get a taste of everything Saskatoon has to offer along the Meewasin Trail.
Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites & Seaside Towns On The Harvest Moon Trailway
Price: Free
Address: Bay of Fundy, NS
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for a unique way to experience Nova Scotia, this section of the Trail has it all. Great for off-road cycling or long-distance trekking, the 110-kilometre trailway travels through picturesque communities like the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grand Pré.
There are plenty of adorable pit stops along the way, like award-winning wineries, farmers markets and u-pick berry farms — to name just a few. Whether you're a tourist looking to explore the province's history and culture, or a local wanting to see your province through a new lens, the Harvest Moon Trailway has tons to offer.
Paddle Along Lake Superior's Ancient Water Trail
Price: Free
Address: From Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: Paddlers, this trail is for you. This vast waterway stretches for 1,000 kilometres with a fully accessible entry point at Gros Cap. Celebrating the rich history of these waters, where Indigenous peoples paddled birchbark canoes to travel, trade, hunt and fish for thousands of years, this ancient water trail is a cultural experience not to be missed for avid paddlers.
With a choice of 16 access points, you can customize this watery trek to your liking. These waters can get rough at times, so only set out on this section of the Trans Canada Trail if you're an experienced paddler.
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Hike & Picnic On The Cowichan Valley Trail
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Price: Free
Address: Vancouver Island, BC
Why You Need To Go: Formerly a railway trail, complete with wooden trestles, this section of the Trans Canada Trail is full of history. Located within the Cowichan River Provincial Park, you'll find tons of places for swimming, camping, fishing or hiking nearby. The trailhead is located at a well-marked kiosk on Sooke Lake Road, on the southern part of Vancouver Island.
If practicing photography is what you're after, head to this trail in the fall for incredible foliage along the old train tracks.
Whether you want to visit the Rockies in Alberta, canoe historic waters along Ontario's Lake Superior, or venture to the remote tundra landscapes of Nunavut, the Trans Canada Trail can help you get in touch with the real Canada.
Not only is the Trail an awesome way to explore the country, but experiencing nature as much as possible can help you feel good, both mentally and physically.
To learn more about the Trans Canada Trail, check out their new Ode to the Trail video, visit their website or check out the different trail sections on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.