10 Best Hikes in Eastern Canada to Do in 2025
Top Hiking Trails on Canada’s East Coast
When it comes to hiking in Canada, the towering peaks and turquoise lakes of the west often steals the spotlight. But the East Coast holds its own with a wealth of hiking adventures that are just waiting to be explored.
From the rugged coastline of Newfoundland to the rolling hills of Nova Scotia, Eastern Canada is home to some of the most stunning and diverse trails in the country. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic fjords of Gros Morne National Park, the geological wonders Nova Scotia, or local trails around the cities, there’s something here for every type of hiker.
As an avid hiker and backpacker who’s lived in Ontario since 2018, I’ve had the chance to explore countless trails on this side of the country. In fact, some of my all-time favourite hikes are right here in Eastern Canada.
To help you discover these incredible trails, I teamed up with some of my fellow travel bloggers who’ve also explored the region extensively. Together, we’ve created this guide to the best hikes Eastern Canada has to offer—from short, scenic trails to challenging backcountry adventures.
So, here are the best hikes in Eastern Canada to add to your 2025 adventure list!
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The Best Hikes in Eastern Canada
1. Cape Split Loop, Nova Scotia
The Cape Split Loop in Cape Split Provincial Park is a moderate 14.5 km (9 miles) hike offering some of the most dramatic coastal views in Nova Scotia. The trail combines the Minas Basin and Scots Bay Trails, taking you through lush forests and along the high cliffs of the peninsula.
The highlight is the far end of the trail, where you’ll emerge into a meadow with breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy and its iconic rock pillars. Birdwatchers will love this spot, as the area is teeming with seabirds.
The well-marked trail is wide but can be rocky and muddy, so sturdy footwear is a must, and microspikes are recommended for winter hikes.
The park is dog-friendly (leashes required), has no entrance fee, and is open year-round. Parking is available at the trailhead, along with picnic tables overlooking Scots Bay.
2. Long Range Traverse, Newfoundland
The Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park is one of the most rugged and rewarding backcountry hikes in Eastern Canada. This challenging 35 km (22 miles) point-to-point trek is unmarked and requires advanced navigation skills, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a true wilderness adventure.
The journey begins with a scenic boat shuttle across Western Brook Pond fjord, followed by 3–4 days of traversing varied terrain, camping at remote sites, and soaking in breathtaking panoramic views. Wildlife sightings, including moose, caribou, and black bears, are common, so hikers should maintain a safe distance and store food properly.
A backcountry permit and boat shuttle must be booked in advance through Parks Canada.
Only experienced hikers should attempt this trek. Be prepared with proper gear, including sturdy hiking boots, a lightweight tent, and layers for unpredictable weather. Freshwater sources along the way are plentiful but must be filtered.
This hike is a true bucket-list adventure for those ready to embrace the wild beauty of Newfoundland!
3. Fundy Footpath, New Brunswick
The Fundy Footpath is a challenging 64 km (39.8 miles) end-to-end multi-day hike along the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides.
This rugged trail features steep climbs, slippery descents, and technical terrain, but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of 100-meter cliffs, red-rock coastlines, ancient rock formations, and remote beachfront campsites.
The trail is mostly quiet, with primitive campsites that don’t require reservations, allowing you to hike at your own pace and enjoy the serenity of the trail.
While day hikers explore shorter sections of the trail, the full trek takes 4–5 days and offers a true wilderness experience. Be prepared with good hiking boots, a reliable tent, and gear for unpredictable weather. Trail registration is required, and the route is best suited for experienced backpackers.
4. Skyline Trail, Nova Scotia
The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a must-do for hikers seeking stunning coastal views without a gruelling climb. This 7.7 km (4.8 miles) out-and-back trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for families and casual hikers.
The real highlight is the iconic boardwalk at the turnaround point, offering jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the winding Cabot Trail. Although, be prepared for 263 steps, which can be challenging on windy days or for those with mobility issues.
The trail is best hiked from late spring to early fall, and you’ll want sturdy shoes and plenty of water. The trailhead is easy to find, with ample parking and washrooms. Although, during peak times the parking lot does fill up and the trail closes temporarily when it reaches capacity. There’s also an entrance fee for Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Wildlife sightings are common, so dog’s aren’t permitted on the trail–Keep an eye out for moose, bald eagles, and even whales!
5. Georgian Bay Trail, Ontario
The Georgian Bay Trail in Bruce Peninsula National Park is a scenic 4 km (2.5 miles) loop that’s perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
This easy, family-friendly trail takes you on a loop around Horse Lake through the forest, ending at the park’s iconic Grotto—a stunning limestone cave filled with crystal-clear turquoise water. While swimming is tempting, the water is icy cold, even in summer!
For a more challenging hike, explore the park’s longer trails, like the 24 km (15 miles) route from Little Cove or the 16 km (10 miles) trek from Halfway Log Dump, both offering breathtaking cliffside views, pebble beaches and more technical terrain. There are also campgrounds on these longer trails, so you can easily turn this into a multi-day back backcountry adventure.
The trail does get busy and parking passes (or camping reservations) are required from April to October, which can be reserved online. However, I recommend visiting in October for a spectacular display of fall colours against the bright blue waters of Georgian Bay.
6. Greenwich Dunes Trail, PEI
The Greenwich Dunes Trail in Prince Edward Island National Park is a scenic 4.3 km (2.7 miles) out-and-back hike that showcases the beauty of PEI’s largest sand dunes.
This easy trail begins with a flat gravel path, winds through a lush forest, and crosses a 700-meter floating boardwalk over a marsh before ending at a stunning beach. For panoramic views, climb to the top of a dune and take in the sweeping coastal landscape.
The area is part of a delicate ecosystem, with interpretive signs highlighting its history and natural significance along the trail.
The hike takes about 45–60 minutes, but plan extra time to relax on the beach or visit the Interpretation Centre, which features interactive exhibits. A park entry fee is required, and facilities like washrooms are available at the centre. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, as much of the trail is exposed to the sun.
7. East Coast Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador
The East Coast Trail is a stunning 336 km (209 miles) network of 25 interconnected paths along Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula, North America’s easternmost coastline.
While for some, completing the entire trail is a bucket-list worthy experience, most hikers tackle shorter sections over 3–7 days. The full trail offers a mix of wilderness hiking and historic charm, passing through coastal communities, abandoned villages, and landmarks like a 50-meter suspension bridge.
Highlights include dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, fjords, and even a freshwater geyser known as ‘the spout.’ Wildlife sightings, including icebergs and seabirds, are also common.
Camping is permitted along the trail, with six primitive campsites available, or opt for B&Bs in nearby towns for added comfort. No reservations are needed, making it a flexible adventure for hikers of all levels.
8. Hemlocks & Hardwoods trail, Nova Scotia
The Hemlocks & Hardwoods Trail in Kejimkujik National Park is a serene 5 km (3.1 miles) loop through an ancient forest steeped in history.
This easy hike takes you through a lush woodland that dates back to the time of the Mi’kmaq First Nations, with informational panels along the way detailing the forest’s unique ecosystem.
The trail features a mix of well-maintained paths and wooden boardwalks, designed to protect the fragile tree roots. It’s mostly flat, making it accessible for all skill levels, and dogs are welcome on a leash. Just note that the road to the trailhead is quite rough and can be slow going, so plan accordingly.
Near the end of the trail, you’ll find campsites for those looking to extend their stay—just be sure to book in advance.
9. La Cloche Silhouette Trail, Ontario
The La Cloche Silhouette Trail in Killarney Provincial Park is a challenging 78 km (48.5 miles) loop, often called the crown jewel of Ontario hiking. This multi-day trek features rugged terrain, including steep ascents, descents, boulders, and roots, making it a physically and technically demanding adventure.
Hikers are rewarded with stunning quartzite ridges, crystal-clear lakes, and panoramic views of the La Cloche Mountains. Most complete the trail in 7–10 days, with private lakeside campsites offering a serene end to each day. Camping reservations and a vehicle permit are required and tend to book up early, so plan ahead.
Given the technical terrain and duration, the trail is best suited for experienced backpackers. Be sure to pack lightweight camping gear, safety equipment, and sufficient food for this unforgettable journey.
10. Gaff Point and Hirtle’s Beach, Nova Scotia
Gaff Point is a scenic coastal hike that combines forest trails with breathtaking ocean views. This 6.5 km (4 miles) lollipop trail begins with a 1.5 km (1 mile) stroll along Hirtle’s Beach before leading into a loop through lush forest and along dramatic cliffs. The mix of terrain—sandy beaches, rocky barrens, and forested paths—makes it a unique and rewarding experience.
The loop section is slightly more technical, with raised roots and uneven ground, but it’s still suitable for families and casual hikers. Sunset hikes are particularly stunning, though don’t forget a headlamp for the return trip!
Dogs are allowed on the trail, and there’s no entrance fee. Plus, parking and vault toilets are available at the trailhead, making it an easy and accessible hike.
Final Thoughts – Hiking in Eastern Canada
So, there you have it, some of the best hikes in Eastern Canada to do in 2025!
From the rugged cliffs of Newfoundland to the serene forests of Ontario, Eastern Canada is a hiker’s paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking a challenging multi-day trek or a family-friendly trail, this region offers something for every adventurer.
We hope this list inspires you to lace up your boots, hit the trails, and discover the breathtaking landscapes that make Eastern Canada so special. Happy hiking!
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