7 adventures you can have on one epic cross-Canada trail

It’s time to get out and experience the great outdoors (that is, before the weather gets gloomy and dark).

And it’s safe to say that out of all the places in the world, Canada is arguably one of the best when it comes to getting outside. It doesn’t need to happen hours away from home, either. It’s easy to embrace a sense of fun and adventure in your own backyard, and CLIF Bar wants to prove this to you.

As adventure enthusiasts, CLIF Bar is proud to be a sponsor of The Great Trail in Canada: 24,000km of urban, rural, and wilderness routes that spread from Montréal to Victoria. But while the trail is long, it shouldn’t take you much time at all to reach one of its iconic stretches. In fact, 80% of Canadians can reach The Great Trail within 30 minutes, just by driving out of the city!

Inspired by CLIF Bar, here are our suggestions for outdoor adventures to experience on this epic cross-country trail.

Vancouver

Those who are interested in experiencing the great outdoors can savour the sea breeze on the Sea to Sky Marine Trail, a 38-kilometre trail which involves paddling to Squamish, then biking, hiking, or cross-country skiing another 80 kilometres north towards Whistler Mountain — another outdoor playground.

Foodies can explore the Cowichan Valley Trail which is just north of Victoria, BC. Hop on a section of the scenic 121-kilometre route packed with farms, cheese-makers, vineyards, and small cafes — it’s a foodie paradise! You’ll also be passing through a number of wooden trestle bridges, including the Kinsol Trestle which is known as being one of the world’s highest bridges.

Calgary

The Great Trail’s highest point is 2,185 metres, along Alberta’s Kananaskis Country Trail in the Rockies. It’s a paradise for cross-country skiers, snowshoeing enthusiasts, hikers, fat-tire bikers, and horseback riders. So, if you’re an avid outdoor adventurer, this is a great destination for breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks rising above the valley in the distance!

Another way to take in the stunning Rocky Mountain peaks is the Banff Legacy Trail in Alberta, which takes you along an easy 22.3 kilometre paved trail. With educational markers and picnic sites, it’s the perfect day trip for families. Bonus: it will also lend you the opportunity to spot wildlife including bighorn sheep, moose, elk, and bears!

Toronto

Head to Lake Ontario’s shoreline on the Waterfront Trail, which takes you from Burlington to the scenic foreshore of Toronto. The 87-kilometre pathway goes through botanical gardens, marshes, parks, and beaches, and it’s the perfect spot for cycling or going for a leisurely walk.

If that doesn’t take your fancy, take a drive down to the Niagara River Recreational Trail, a 57-kilometre trail parallel to the Niagara River that will take you from the historic Fort Erie past the iconic Niagara Falls to Fort George. Depending on where you decide to begin, you can stop at the many wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake for tastings along the way.

Montréal

Most of The Great Trail’s urban sections are part of the Route Verte — the Green Route, which is 5,296 kilometres of biking paths that knit together the far corners of this vast province. It’s actually North American’s largest cycling network, so if you’ve ever had any doubts about how much Montreal locals love to cycle, here’s your proof. Grab your bicycle, and get riding!

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Earlier this year, CLIF Bar launched its “Make it Good” campaign, encouraging all Canadians to experience urban adventures in their city. Stopping in Vancouver this month is CLIF Bar’s tricked-out adventure trailer, bringing tips for local urban adventures and activities in the area, along with complimentary CLIF Bar energy foods, adventure gear, and inspiration to help locals get outdoors.

Take advantage of the final days of summer and head out for some urban adventures in your own city. For more information, visit clifbar.ca.