Did you know that the world’s longest hiking trail is located in Canada? What’s called a “network of multi-use recreational trails”, spans across the country and apparently continues to grow! Any guesses? We’re talking about the Trans Canada Trail, and here’s what to know.
According to Destination Ontario, the Trail stretches more than 28,000 km and consists of interconnected nature trails, water routes and roadways. That means adventure seekers are able to go hiking, cycling, paddling, horseback riding, and more, on the trail.
Exploring the Trans Canada Trail
This national asset is so large that it links to three oceans – the Atlantic, the Pacific, and the Arctic.
It connects 15,000 rural, urban, and Indigenous communities, and “provides significant economic and environmental benefits,” according to its official website.
“It’s a thread that connects Canada’s diverse landscapes, seasons, people, and experiences.”
As for Ontario, the Trans Canada Trail connects over 150 communities across over 5,000 kilometres. From Minaki, north of Kenora on the Manitoba border in the west, to the Capital Pathway crossing from Ottawa into Quebec. It’s a long stretch, according to Destination Ontario.
Fun fact: 80 per cent of Canadians live just 30 minutes away from parts of the trail.
How to explore it in Ontario?
There are several ways to enjoy this trail, whether that be biking, hiking, wildlife spotting, or even paddling.
For a biking adventure, explore the Frontenac K&P Trail. Per Destination Ontario, it follows a former K&P Railway Company line that cuts through the UNESCO-designated Frontenac Arch Biosphere. It spans about 45.2 km between Kingston and Sharbot Lake, Frontenac County.
Want a hike close to home? Why not explore the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail? It connects Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and Toronto. It spans 90.22 km between Burlington and Toronto.
For your next paddling excursion, take on the Lake Superior Water Trail. “LSWC worked with the Trans Canada Trail to create a 1,000 km water trail from Gros Cap to Thunder Bay,” shares the Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy.
“By installing infrastructure like washrooms, docks, canoe lockers, picnic tables, interpretive signage and accessible connected pathways, we have provided people with a safe and enjoyable way to interact with the Lake.”
Though not everyone is up for the challenge, you can still trek along some parts of the Trans Canada Trail for yourself.
But if you’re itchin’ for a grand adventure, Trans Canada Trail has some great guides and journeys for you to discover.
Talk about thrilling!
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