Canada's 10 best hiking trails

The globe's second-biggest country has an endless variety of landscapes – a big draw for many of the people visit Canada every year.

Sky-high mountains, pristine lakes and spectral forests provide the backdrop for plenty of “ah”-inspiring moments, photo ops, and trails that really let you get away from it all.

Here are 10 hiking trails that truly showcases Canada’s boundless natural beauty.

Two compelling attractions make this Lake Louise's most popular hike.

First, the historic Lake Agnes Teahouse, where hikers have been refueling since 1901, makes a supremely atmospheric spot to break for tea, sandwiches and baked goods at the 3.4km mark.

Second, the lake views from atop 2270m Big Beehive (the trail's ultimate destination) are phenomenal. Set off early to beat the crowds.

Located on the finger of land jutting into the Bay of Fundy, this 13km-return trail from Scots Bay, taking around five hours, is one of the most popular hikes in Nova Scotia.

The hike ends in a dramatic, often windy clearing on cliffs high above the Bay of Fundy where seabirds nest.

Wander down to the rocky outcrop at the vertiginous end of the trail to see the tides creating waves called tidal rips that flow through a cluster of rock pinnacles.

Where the temperate rainforest comes down to kiss the ocean, the citizens of Ucluelet have built a magnificent 10km trail that can be equally spectacular in both the sun and (stormy) rain.

It starts with a 2.6km loop that winds past a 1915 Amphitrite lighthouse and progresses northwest as far as the Ancient Cedars loop and the Rocky Bluffs beyond.

The trail is well signposted and mapped. To complete the whole 10km you’ll need to take a couple of interconnecting paths along quiet roads calling in at several attractive beaches on the way.

Various information boards provide background on the area’s history and nature, and the path is dotted with benches, lookouts and “artist’s loops” equipped with viewing platforms. Pack your easel.