Love hiking? These 8 activities will take it to the next level

Canada is home to some of the world’s most beautiful hikes. From national treasures to provincial parks and conservation areas, there are thousands of trails across the True North.  

While some trails have interactive features, others will require you to make your own fun. If you want to see astounding lookouts or sparkling waterfalls but get bored on the way there, or your mini hiking partners are constantly asking “are we there yet,” trail activities will keep your minds active while you trek.  

Before you go, research trail safety and check that your furry friends are allowed on the hike with you. Once you’re ready to venture out, check out these activities to give you a greater appreciation of Canada’s natural landscape and keep your hike exciting the whole way through.  

Group games

Did you know that many road trip games can be adapted for hikes? Would You Rather, We’re Going on a Picnic, and Who Am I are all engaging ways to keep the conversation going while on the trail. Another great activity is the Alphabet Game, where you cycle from A to Z, naming something in nature that starts with each letter.  

Picnicking

Many trails have beautiful lookout spots with picnic areas for visitors. Whether you’re relaxing in a wooded area or at a table with a view, your lunch will taste much better after a trek through the wilderness. Once you’re done, remember to bring all of your garbage with you or dispose of it in a designated bin.  

Photography

A popular saying along hiking trails is to “take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.” Snapping stunning wildlife pictures along your hike is a great way to appreciate the finer details of nature without bringing a physical souvenir home. Capture the essence of tiny insects, miniature mushrooms and glowing green moss as you follow the trail.  

Birdwatching

While you wander, listen carefully for the sounds of birds flitting through the trees. Hikers who watch closely will be rewarded with the colourful plumage of Canada’s feathery friends. You can keep a note of your latest finds in a birdwatching notebook, snap some pictures or just enjoy the beautiful birdsong.  

Plein air painting

Whether you’re an artsy type or you’re looking to spend time with your kids, painting a scene from your hike is a great way to appreciate the outdoors. Pick a sunny spot along the trail to do a quick sketch of what you see or have a seat on a bench to carefully paint all the details of the natural world in front of you.  

Once your masterpiece is finished, make sure to take your paint water home with you and dispose of it safely—the ingredients in paint can be toxic to wildlife.  

Geocaching

Geocaching is a worldwide scavenger hunt where participants hide containers full of miniature treasures for others to find. Many of Canada’s trails have geocaches hidden in their landscape, waiting for you to uncover them. Since anyone can access the list of caches across the country, liven up your hike by using GPS coordinates to track them down!  

Star gazing

Although hiking at night requires plenty of preparation, such as choosing a familiar trail, bringing the right gear, and taking buddies with you, it can also yield breathtaking opportunities for stargazing across Canada. Spot constellations in the vast expanse above, identify the moon phase and use the north star to guide you.  

Wildlife bingo

If you’re looking to keep kids occupied on your hike while teaching them about nature, print out a wildlife bingo or scavenger hunt for them to fill out as you walk. There are plenty online to choose from, or you can make your own using local plants and animals. The kids will have a great time trying to spot animal tracks, pinecones and bugs, and you’ll have a peaceful hike while they keep themselves busy.  

Hit the trails with CAA  

Before you go, don’t forget your CAA Membership. With thousands of Rewards Partners for your hiking gear needs, CAA will help you make the most of your time in the great outdoors. 

Want to save on the drive to the trailhead? CAA Members save three cents per litre on fuel and ten per cent on snacks and drinks at participating Shell locations.