by Norma Budden

Created on: April 30, 2008

Some of the best hiking trails in the world are located in Canada. There are great trails nestled in the heart of sparsely populated Newfoundland, canyons to tour in Quebec and Ontario, and mountains and glaciers to explore in the heart of the Rocky Mountains of western Canada.

While it's impossible to name all of the great areas to be hiked in Canada, a representation of my personal favorites are:

The East Coast Trail, Newfoundland
A 540 km hiking trail, along the coast of the Avalon Peninsula, which takes you to the eastern edge of North America. While on this trail - which links 30 historic fishing communities providing all basic services - you'll be blessed with a wilderness adventure unlike any other. You'll see wildlife, beautiful landscapes, rich history, and will find yourself immersed into the Newfoundland (Newfie) culture rather quickly.

Some of the main attractions along this trail are towering cliffs and lighthouses. Since it's located along the coast, whales and icebergs can also be seen. The world's most southern caribou herd is found along this trail, as well as a 50-meter suspension bridge, along with two archaeological sites.

You'll be surrounded by fresh clean air, peace and solitude, as well as the boreal forest. The majestic part is that all of these are enjoyed along with the striking beauty and sound of the Atlantic Ocean as water crashes against the rocks jutting from the shoreline.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
Some of the most spectacular scenery in eastern Canada is located within the boundaries of this majestic park, with more than 100 km of trails ranging from 30-minute relaxing strolls to strenuous hikes. There are 20 trails encompassed by mountain peaks, waterfalls, sandy/rocky beaches, ponds, and coastal cliffs, among other natural landscapes.

Canyon Ste-Anne , Quebec City, Quebec
This canyon can easily be explored in a couple of hours but it's worth your while to take your time. It's a hike which can be done with the whole family though it's not recommended for physically challenged individuals.

Canyon Ste-Anne will take you, by foot, across three suspension bridges meandering between both cliffs of the canyon. The first one is at the top of the falls, the second at 60m - where you will likely see a rainbow when looking at the falls - and the third at the base of the falls. Breath-taking views are offered at every part of the falls and, just when you believe you've seen the most beautiful sight imaginable, another sight will come

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