British Columbia Bests

West Coast Trail – Vancouver Island

This legendary 75 km (or so—GPS tracks often put it closer to 80–92 km) coastal trek is an epic adventure: hanging ladders, tidal challenges, isolated beaches, and full-on wilderness immersion. Open May 1–September 30 by reservation only—this trail requires serious prep. Wikipedia

Baden-Powell Trail – North Shore, Vancouver

A rugged yet maintained 48 km traverse from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove, winding through old-growth forest, offering scenic vistas, and passing by icons like Quarry Rock and Lynn Canyon. Expect exposed roots, mud, and occasional steep sections. Wikipedia

Vancouver Island Trail

Still being built, this 800 km mega-route will stretch from Victoria all the way to Cape Scott. It’s already functional in many segments and weaves through communities and stunning landscapes—thru-hikers have completed it in 6–8 weeks. Wikipedia

Mount Seymour Trails – Metro Vancouver

Options abound—from a casual 20-minute Old Cabin loop to strenuous all-day scrambles like Elsay Lake (7 km, 500 m elevation, 9–10 hrs). Wildlife might include deer, coyotes—and the occasional cougar or black bear. Bearfoot Theory+11Wikipedia+11AllTrails.com+11

Knox Mountain Park – Kelowna, Okanagan

Urban getaway alert: a 4 km trail to sweeping views over Kelowna and its lake, with occasional wildlife like deer, birds—and yes, even grizzlies in the park’s outskirts. Great for short hikes, runs, or family outings. Wikipedia

Heather Trail – E.C. Manning Park (Thru-Hike Suggestion)

A user-recommended gem for a novice thru‑hiker: scenic, manageable, and well-supported. The 21 km out-and-back (2–3 days) route starts up high—meaning most of the vertical grunt happens in the car.

aribaldi Lake Trail – British Columbia

A West Coast classic, this trail leads you through old-growth forest and alpine meadows before revealing a turquoise lake framed by snow-capped peaks. The water is glacier-fed and icy cold — perfect for a quick dip if you’re brave. Campsites at the lake are in high demand, so book early. Best visited in July–September for wildflowers and snow-free trails.

Trail Reviews

Alberta Bests

Plain of Six Glaciers Trail – Banff National Park, Alberta

If you want jaw-dropping mountain scenery and a sense of adventure, this is the trail for you. The hike offers sweeping views of Lake Louise before winding up into the heart of the Rockies, with glaciers towering overhead. The trail ends at a quaint teahouse where you can sip hot chocolate with a view of ancient ice fields. Moderate difficulty, but worth every step. Best in late summer when the snow has melted from higher sections.

Skyline Trail – Jasper National Park

A stunning 44 km multi-day backpacking route that spends over half its length above the tree line. On this trail, you’ll cross alpine wildflower meadows, ridges with sweeping panoramas, and camp at strategically spaced backcountry sites. Wildlife sightings—think bears, goats, eagles—are common, so pack your bear-aware gear. Reservations for campgrounds are mandatory. AllTrails.com+1

Carthew–Alderson Hike – Waterton Lakes

A one-way classic that delivers mountain peaks, rust-hued rocky slopes, and scenic alpine lakes. Not officially flat-out easy—expect a 16.7 km trek with 740 m of elevation gain, clocking in at 5–7 hours. Plan ahead: you’ll need a shuttle, as it doesn’t loop back. 10Adventures

Lake O’Hara (Yoho National Park)

Although technically in BC, this trail system borders Alberta territory and is special enough to mention. It’s regarded by some as the Rockies’ best day hike. Picture turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and picture-perfect vistas. Access is tightly managed via bus reservations months in advance. Lauren\'s Lighthouse+6Bearfoot Theory+610Adventures+6

Grassi Lakes – Near Calgary/Canmore

Short, serene, and stunning year-round. Emerald-hued lakes and a view over Canmore make it ideal for a half-day escape. Bonus: rock climbers will appreciate the limestone cliffs that flank the lakes. Lauren\'s Lighthouse

Widowmaker Trail – Kananaskis (Reddit Favorite)

From the locals’ perspective: "A fabulous, flat/early‑season hike… grassy lakes near Canmore… stunning view… takes up half a day, maybe not even." Sometimes the "hidden favorites" deliver the best bang for your hiking buck. Reddit