Why the Trail is the Best Backyard for Families
No lineups. No screens. No “I’m bored” every five minutes.
Just fresh air, stunning views and a whole lot of simple fun on the Trail. All across Canada, families are discovering the Trans Canada Trail — the ultimate playground for curious kiddos, nature hunts and easy outdoor adventures.
Stroller Strolls and Tiny Treks
Good news: You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy the Trail. Plenty of sections are stroller-friendly and perfect for those wobbly first steps, scooter rides or slow-paced family rambles. It’s the easiest way to get outside together — no gear, no stress. Whether it’s a serene stroller walk or a toddle through the trees, the Trail is ready for those first outdoor memories.
Trail Picks for Little Explorers:
- Confederation Trail (Prince Edward Island): Smooth, flat pathways that are ideal for pushchairs and tricycle rides.
- Lachine Canal (Quebec): Scenic, accessible waterfront routes perfect for little ones.
- Meewasin Trail (Saskatchewan): Paved sections along the South Saskatchewan River — family-friendly and stroller-approved.
Photo: Confederation Trail | PE — Lex Rose
Snack Stops, Nature Breaks and Room to Roam
What makes any trip in the great outdoors even better? Built-in snack breaks, shady picnic spots and maybe even a detour to a playground. Across Canada, the Trail winds past parks, cafes and quiet green spaces for playtime or a quick bite to eat. All that within easy distance of natural wonders that can turn a regular walk into an easy family adventure.
Favourite Family Stopovers:
- Martin Goodman Trail (Ontario): Seemingly endless views of Lake Ontario, with access to beaches and picnic areas along the way.
- Amisk Wacîw Mêskanaw — Beaver Hill Road (Alberta): Enjoy breathtaking sights on gentle paths in Edmonton’s Louise McKinney Riverfront Park.
- Parc linéaire Le P’tit Train du Nord (Quebec): Weaving through lively Laurentian towns, this gentle trail features train stations that have been converted into information centres, cafes and rest areas.
Pro tip: Snacks taste better outside. It’s science.
Photo: Parc linéaire Le P’tit Train du Nord | Mont-Tremblant, QC — Jennifer Mahon
Nature Hunts and Backyard Discoveries
Skip the screens — nature’s playground is open! You never know what you’ll spot on the Trail — birds, bugs, wildflowers or maybe even a new favourite stick (kids know the good ones). A quick scavenger hunt or “what animal made that sound?” game keeps little explorers busy and devices forgotten.
Top Trails for Tiny Explorers:
- Lincoln Trail (New Brunswick): An accessible route through flower gardens and shoreline habitat — perfect for wildlife spotting.
- Rossburn Subdivision Trail (Manitoba): Running right through Riding Mountain National Park, its wide-open spaces are ideal for birdwatching.
- Galloping Goose Regional Trail (British Columbia): Forest paths and gentle terrain — nature at its best.
Photo: Rossburn Subdivision Trail | MB — Aspasia Tahhan
Make the Trail Your Family Playground
No long drives, no admission fees — just simple summer fun, right outside your door. This summer, skip the schedules and say yes to spontaneous adventure.
The Trans Canada Trail stretches across every province and territory, providing easy ways to get outside, explore and make memories together.
Ready to roll? Find your perfect family-friendly trail today.
