Best Winter Hiking Trails In Canada

Welcome to the Great White North, where winter’s icy embrace transforms Canada’s breathtaking landscapes into a wonderland of snow-covered splendor.

As the temperature drops and snow blankets the country, a unique opportunity for adventure beckons. Canada, a vast and diverse nation, is home to some of the world’s most remarkable winter hiking trails.

From the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the serene beauty of the Canadian Shield, the best winter hiking trails in Canada offer an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most captivating, snow-draped trails, showcasing the raw beauty and untamed wilderness that make winter hiking in Canada a truly unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, prepare to be inspired by the magic of winter as we explore the best of the best that this incredible country has to offer. Pack your backpack, lace up your boots, don your warmest gear, and let’s hit some of the best Winter hiking trails that Canada has to offer.

Winter Hiking In Alberta

Winter hiking in Alberta offers a breathtaking experience amidst the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Let’s check out some of the best winter hiking trails recommended by locals:

Maligne Canyon Icewalk

Recommended by: Dotti of Travel Osasis

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 3.5 km (2.17 miles)

Maligne Canyon is the jewel of Jasper and a must-see attraction when visiting the national park. While it’s beautiful in summer, winter is when it really shines. In this season, the canyon changes in the most dramatic way possible as the river and waterfalls within the canyon freeze. To truly appreciate the otherworldly scenery, you need to get inside the canyon, where you can get an up-close look at nature’s ice sculptures.

For that reason, embarking on the Maligne Canyon Icewalk is hands-down one of the best things to do in Jasper in the winter. As you walk deep into the frozen canyon, you’ll discover a winter wonderland of bright, blue, frozen waterfalls, frosted limestone, hanging icicles and natural ice sculptures. It’s truly a spectacular sight and one that shouldn’t be missed. 

Pro Tip: You can do the Maligne Canyon Icewalk both independently and on a guided tour. If you go on your own, your route will be slightly restricted (to the main trail) and you must be prepared for the winter conditions. Ice cleats are absolutely essential and helmets are strongly recommended. 

Lake Louise Shoreline Trail

Recommended by: Marianne of The Journeying Giordano’s

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) return

The Lake Louise Shoreline Trail is a must-do out-and-back trail. It offers a relatively easy hike for all skill levels, with no major elevation changes.

The trail begins in front of the Fairmont Hotel and runs along the iconic Lake Louise. You can expect awesome views of the snow-covered lake and even a peek at Victoria Glacier as you stroll along the path.

The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible to most hikers. Of course, this also means that the trail is pretty popular and can get a little crowded, even in winter.

You can complete the trail in around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. There are even benches staggered along the trail, where you can sit to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery.

Many popular Lake Louise hikes, including the Plain of Six Glaciers Hike, start with the Shoreline Trail.

Pro Tip: If you plan to hike the Shoreline Trail during the colder months, be prepared for icy and snowy conditions. You might want to bring microspikes or crampons for added traction, as the path can get slippery.

Lake Agnes – Teahouse Trail

Recommended by: Chantelle of Flannels or Flip Flops

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: 7.6 km (4.6 miles) out-and-back

Though you’ll find Banff National Park awash with nearly endless spectacular hiking trails, the hike to Lake Agnes Tea House is something quite special.

Your hike begins along the turquoise waters of famous Lake Louise as you strike out along the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail. Just beyond the Fairmont Lake Louise, you’ll head up the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail. Stay right at the fork, and you’ll see trail signs.

This beautiful trail features nearly 400 meters elevation gain, so bring along those trekking poles in winter. Make your way up towards the tea house and you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of Noghu Crags and bright blue Lake Louise below. Savor the beautiful views of famed Mirror Lake along your way. You’ll have the chance to gaze upon Banff’s famous “Beehive” cliff atop Mirror Lake on this incredible hike. 

Offering gorgeous views along the trail, this out-and-back trek is mostly a steady incline on the ascent, so sport your best hiking boots for this jaunt. Ice cleats are highly recommended in the colder months. 

Pro Tip: While the tea house is closed in winter, the gorgeous views along this trail can be enjoyed in all seasons.

Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park

Recommended by: Emilie of Love Life Abroad

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 1.4 km (0.9 miles) round trip

Marble Canyon is renowned as one of Canada’s most picturesque winter hiking trails. It’s perfect for a family day out. This hike is located in Kootenay National Park, close to Banff. 

This easy, 1.4-kilometer trail features frozen waterfall views and towering iced canyon walls. You may even get the chance to see some ice climbers in action in the canyon. The path is well-maintained and marked. It will bring you over several footbridges over the canyon. It can feel a little crazy looking down, but it’s a secured trail. Even toddlers can do it.

Note: This is not a wheelchair or stroller-accessible trail. A few stairs and some steep sections can be icy in the winter.

At the trailhead, you’ll find a nice parking lot with outhouses and a few interpretive signs (it’s worth reading them). Also, if you need more challenges, you can continue to the Paint Pots trail. It makes a total hike of 8.5 km.

Pro-Tip: Dress in layers and ensure you have ice cleats or traction devices for your boots during winter. The trail can get slippery. Also, consider bringing a thermos of hot chocolate to enjoy a warm treat while soaking in the spectacular frozen vistas at the base of the canyon.

Winter Hiking In British Columbia

Winter hiking in British Columbia offers a diverse range of experiences. Exploring the hiking trails of British Columbia allows hikers to witness the province’s stunning natural beauty, with the added thrill of snowy wilderness and a chance to encounter local wildlife. A few of the local residents have shared their favourite winter hiking trails:

Snowshoe Grind

Recommended by: Taryn of Happiest Outdoors

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: 4.3 km (2.7 miles) round trip

In the summer, Vancouver’s Grouse Grind trail is a favourite amongst locals and visitors as it climbs steeply up the side of Grouse Mountain. The Grouse Grind is closed in the winter, but you can still get a workout on the nearby Snowshoe Grind Trail. 

The Snowshoe Grind is one of the best places to go snowshoeing in Vancouver. To start, buy a ticket and ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola to the top of Grouse Mountain. From there, follow the trail steeply uphill through the snowy forest to the top Dam Mountain. The route is marked with coloured wands so it is easy to stay on track even in fresh snow. From the top, there are great views of Vancouver below you and the snowy North Shore Mountains all around. Expect to take 1-2 hours to tackle the trail. 

Pro Tip: If you want to extend your trip, tack on a trip to Thunderbird Ridge. The trail is an extension of the Snowshoe Grind and adds another 1.5 km round-trip to your hike. It leads to another great viewpoint and since it is less popular, you might even get it all to yourself. 

Bowan Lookout

Recommended by: Jessica of Next Up Next Adventures

• Difficulty Level: Easy (not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers)
• Distance: 4.7 km (2.9 miles) out and back

This is a stunning trail on Cypress Mountain in Vancouver British Columbia that leads to jaw dropping views of Howe Sound in the Pacific Ocean.   

Because this trail is short, and doesn’t have a lot of elevation gain, this is a favourite with all ages. In the winter, the trail will be snow covered, however it is well travelled and most people find that ice cleats or crampons are the best choice for traction on this trail (no need for snowshoes!)

The trail to Bowen Lookout starts at Cypress Mountain ski resort (the ski hill) and winds through old growth forest.  You will cross beautiful snowy meadows, and then do a tiny bit of uphill work. 

You will know when you reach the viewpoint-the views are incredible.  As you look out over the ocean you will see Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast, as well as the smaller islands in Howe Sound.  This trail can continue on to St Marks Summit which is much higher elevation and crosses through avalanche paths.  

Pro Tip: Visit for stunning sunsets, and most people prefer crampons or spikes (vs. snowshoes) on this trail.   

Winter Hiking In Ontario

From the Algonquin Park trails to the frozen waterfalls of Mono Cliffs, hikers will find themselves themselves in a winter wonderland while exploring the province’s diverse landscapes. This is what makes Ontario the ideal destination for those seeking a cold-weather adventure. Let’s take a look at some of the favourite Winter hiking trails recommended by locals:

Algonquin Park – Algonquin Logging Museum Trail

Recommended by: The Exploring Family

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 1.3 km (0.80 miles)

Algonquin Provincial Park offers breathtaking wilderness, fresh air, secluded forests, clear water, and a blanket of stars at night. It offers Canadians an accessible wilderness adventure. You can accomplish many of the Things to do in Algonquin Park during a day trip or even better is to make it a weekend trip. 

Exploring the history of Algonquin Park, the act of logging emerges as an important part of the park’s history. For those keen on learning about the park’s historical evolution, I strongly recommend embarking on this interpretive hiking trail. This is a flat trail that takes you from exhibit to exhibit and can even be used during the winter months.

This trail serves as an invaluable source of information, telling the narrative of logging that extends from the 1830s to the present day. Spanning a 1.3 km route, it artfully recreates the ambiance of logging camps, providing an immersive experience. Additionally, it gives insight into the hard and demanding nature of logging during its early days.

Some of the key highlights are visiting the recreated camboose camp and seeing the steam-powered amphibious tug called the alligator. The trail teaches about the days of logging camps, the tree felling techniques used and how they transported logs.

Pro Tip: Pack winter boots for this trail as the snow is super deep, when we went in early May there was still full snow coverage and it was knee deep.

Arrowhead Provincial Park – Stubb’s Falls Loop

Recommended by Erin from Pina Travels

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 2.6 km (1.61 miles)

Stubb’s Falls is a loop trail in Arrowhead Provincial Park, which is a short drive from Huntsville, Ontario. This provincial park is one of the best Ontario parks to visit in winter. In the winter you can rent skis, snowshoes, and ice skates to go skating on the park’s famous skating trail. Throughout the park are plenty of campfires that are lit to warm up at, and many of the bathrooms are heated.

The Stubb’s Falls Loop is an easy walk on a well groomed and marked trail. The route has very little elevation gain, and takes most people about 45 minutes to complete. Stubb’s Falls Loop brings you alongside a river, until you reach a bridge, which guides you to the other side of the river to loop back. From the bridge, you have a view of the falls. They are small, gentle falls that in the winter become a winter wonderland — well worth the walk. 

Pro Tip: Even in winter, Arrowhead Provincial Park gets very busy. Book your park pass in advance, online.

The Lookout Trail

Recommended by: Kristin of Tiny Footsteps Travel

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: 6.4 km (3.9 miles)

The Lookout Trail at Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is a 6.4 km loop that takes you through old-growth forest, streams, a lake, and up to the summit of the park. On a clear day, you can see the skyline of Toronto in the distance.

In the winter, you have the option of hiking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the trail.  Most of the trail is fairly flat, but there are some areas that are a bit rugged with rocks and tree roots. It takes just under 2 hours for a person of average fitness to complete. 

Be sure to make your reservation at Mono Cliffs Provincial Park in advance, as it is a popular place year round – even on weekends. Reservations are heavily enforced and you will not be allowed in without a reservation.

 
Pro-Tip: Make a reservation at the Mono Cliffs Inn for a hearty sit-down meal after your hike. Mono Cliffs has a cozy environment and delicious foods. Be sure to reserve far in advance on weekends though, as it’s very popular!

Ball’s Falls Conservation Area

Recommended by: Sarah of In Search of Sarah

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 2-7 km (1.2 – 4.3 miles depending on trail)

The trails at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area are some of the most beautiful Winter hiking trails in Niagara!

You’ll be able to check out two amazing waterfalls within a short hiking distance, as well as experience a historic village packed full of charm! 

While there are five hiking trails to explore at Ball’s Falls, the most scenic one is the Historic Village Loop. It’s a peaceful hike during the winter and manageable for kids, too. 

Follow the trail along the creek to the Upper Falls. Turn back and follow the trail down past historic ruins before crossing a bridge to the historic village, which dates back to the 1800s! 

The trail leads to the Lower Falls which is absolutely stunning during the winter. 

For those who want more of a challenge, continue on the Twenty Valley Trail which leads down a steep set of stairs into the ravine. The views are amazing down here, especially when there’s a recent snowfall.

Devil’s Punch Bowl

Recommended by: Erin of Wanderlust With Kids

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: 4.3 km (2.6 miles)

Devil’s Punch Bowl is one of Hamilton’s most impressive waterfalls. While you can hike from the lookout to the falls in an easy 5 minutes, a more interesting way to get to the falls is along the Bruce Trail from Battlefield House in Stoney Creek.

From the Battlefield House parking lot, head towards the escarpment and then follow the Bruce Trail through forested areas along the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO Biosphere until you reach the base of Devil’s Punchbowl. Be sure to keep an eye out for the white markings on the trees, which mark the Bruce Trail.

Once you reach the stream, continue along the water until you reach the falls. The view of Devil’s Punch Bowl falls from below is a stunning sight, with the layers of multi-coloured rocks exposed and the stream of water falling 34 metres to the bottom. 

The Bruce Trail is a popular trail however it’s not maintained in the winter, so proper winter hiking boots are required. Be mindful of icy sections. 

Pro Tip: Wear proper hiking boots and be aware that the area at the base of the falls may be muddy!

Winter Hiking In Quebec

Quebec is well-known for its world famous Winter Carnival, however, it’s also known as one of Canada’s most magical Winter Provinces, making this Province the ideal destination for avid hiker’s seeking some outdoor Winter fun.

Mont Condor Ouest

Recommended by: Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

• Difficulty Level: moderate
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Snowshoeing to the top of Mont Condor Ouest is a popular scenic winter hike in Quebec. The trail is located in the Laurentian Mountains north of Montreal. The Parc Regional of Val-David and Val-Morin maintains the well groomed snowshoe trail leading up the mountain.

The Mont Condor trail starts at the welcome chalet, a charming, heated facility with rentals, maps, and amenities. There are also cross country ski trails here and some of the best downhill skiing in Quebec nearby.

The 5 mile/ 8 km loop starts out as an easy journey through the woods. Huge glacial erratic boulders are seen along the trail. These massive rocks are prime rock climbing challenges in the summer as Val-David is a climbing mecca. Covered with snow, they are a beautiful sight beside the trail.

About halfway through the hike, you will find ice caves along the trail. These curtains of frozen water create a cave that is fun to explore. As you ascend Mont Condor there are numerous overlooks with a panoramic view of the winter wonderland below.

Pro Tip: Make sure to dress in layers for this active hike. Use a wicking layer against your skin with an insulating layer and shell layer on top of iMt. Bring on extra layer to put on when your temperature goes down when you stop.

Winter Hiking In Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s winter hiking trails offer a captivating blend of coastal and woodland experiences, where hikers can explore snow-dusted forests and wander along rugged shorelines. The winter trails in Nova Scotia provide a diverse range of outdoor adventures, making it the ideal destination for cold-weather explorations.

Skyline Trail, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Recommended by: Written by Kamila from Expat in Canada

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 6.5 km return or 8.2 km loop

The iconic Skyline Trail should be on your list of the best Canadian hikes in winter if you plan to visit Nova Scotia. This trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers incredible views of the ocean and the Cabot Trail highway. 

The drive through the highlands on the Cabot Trail to get to your hiking destination is part of the adventure.  It’s a 298-km (185-mile) stretch of road winding along coastline and ocean-side cliffs. It’s undoubtedly one of the most scenic drives in Canada. 

And although the Skyline trail is the most popular in summer and fall, the wintertime is just as stunning. The best part is that the winter season is pretty quiet here, so you’ll encounter only a handful of other hikers and, if you’re lucky, a moose or other wildlife.

Winter is also a great time to embrace the cozy vibes at one of the coastal cottages and hit the ski slopes at Ski Cape Smokey.

You can complete the Skyline trail hike as a 6.5 km return or as an 8.2 km loop. Just keep in mind that a permit or day pass is required for entering Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Pro Tip: Although you don’t need to use snowshoes to enjoy the Skyline trail in the winter, it makes it easier and more fun to power through the snow with them. You can rent snowshoes from one of the many rental shops on the island.

Salt Marsh Trail

Recommended by: Erin of Wanderlust With Kids

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Distance: 6.4 km (4 miles)

The Salt Marsh Trail in Nova Scotia is one of the best hikes near Halifax. This picturesque trail is a great spot to walk or hike year-round, but during the winter months, you’re guaranteed to have most of the trail to yourself.

Just a short drive from downtown Halifax, the Salt Marsh Trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail, and follows an old railway bed through woodlands and across the salt marsh. 

The well-maintained trail is flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. There are kilometre markings along the 6.4-kilometre trail, and if you’re feeling like a longer hike, you can continue on the Atlantic View trail towards Lawrencetown Beach.

Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds that winter stay in the marsh year-round. This trail offers a refreshing escape from the city and a chance to breathe in the crisp, salty air in a peaceful surrounding.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring your camera!  

Winter Hiking In Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island offers some awesome winter hiking trails that take you through its serene landscapes, along the picturesque coastline. The island’s winter trails provide a peaceful and immersive outdoor experience for all nature enthusiasts.

Winter River Trail

Recommended by: Sarah of In Search of Sarah

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Hiking the Winter River Trail is one of the best Winter activities in PEI.

Just 20 minutes from Charlottetown, the breathtaking Winter River Trail is a gorgeous hiking trail that winds through mature spruce and birch trees along a soft trail covered in moss and fallen pine needles. 

You’ll feel as though you’ve been transported into another world. The natural beauty here is unique and difficult to find elsewhere on the island. Hiking all of the trails at Winter River takes roughly two hours along the river and through the woods. It is quite literally the epitome of an enchanted forest. 

The trail starts from the parking lot and down a dirt road before leading into gently rolling terrain. You’ll pass by tall white spruce trees and cross small streams, bridged by boardwalks, including a 1000 foot boardwalk over what was once a marshy area. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch various waterfowl, squirrels, rabbits, and foxes!

Pro Tip: Bring a hot drink thermos with you to enjoy while you stop and rest at one of the many benches overlooking Winter River. This is also a popular spot for snowshoeing!

Top Rated Winter Hiking Trails In Canada: In Conclusion …

As you can see Canada boasts a diverse array of winter hiking trails that cater to adventurers of all skill levels, offering breathtaking landscapes, from snow-clad forests to majestic mountains.

Whether you seek the tranquility of a remote wilderness trail or the excitement of a well-trodden path, the best winter hiking trails in Canada provide an unparalleled opportunity to embrace the beauty and serenity of the Great White North during the coldest season.

Bundle up, hit the trails and get ready to discover the Winter beauty of the Great White North.

HAPPY HIKING 🙂

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