Parks
From pocket parks to vast urban green spaces, parks are the most accessible outdoor places in Canada. Most are free, close to transit and open year-round.
Outdoors
Outside is part of life here.
Parks, trails, lakes and winter rinks: the everyday outdoor places Canadians use close to home, with practical notes for enjoying them well.
In Canada, the outdoors is not only for big adventures. It is the park at the end of the street, the river path on the way to work, the lake an hour out of town and the rink that appears every winter.
Explore by activity
Ways to get outside
Walking
Seawalls, river pathways, ravines and rail trails make walking one of the easiest ways to spend time outside. Choose a section and take it slowly.
Hiking
Hiking ranges from short nature loops to long mountain routes. Match the trail to your experience, check conditions and tell someone your plan.
Lakes
Canada has an enormous number of lakes, and for many people summer means time on or beside one. Swim only where it is safe and permitted.
Beaches
Ocean, lake and river beaches are everyday gathering places in summer and beautiful, quieter walks the rest of the year.
Cycling
Protected bike lanes, multi-use paths and bike share systems are expanding across Canadian cities, making cycling practical for errands and leisure.
Winter
Outdoor rinks, skating trails, snowshoeing and winter walks keep Canadians outside through the cold months. Layers make all the difference.
Weekend Outdoors
A weekend outside does not require a long drive. Many of the best outdoor days start within an hour of home.
Before you head out
A few minutes of planning goes a long way.
Most outdoor problems are avoidable. Whether you are heading to a city park or a provincial trail, a quick check of conditions and a little preparation make the day better and safer.
- Check official sources. Parks Canada, provincial and territorial park agencies, and municipalities publish closures, conditions and rules.
- Look at the forecast. Environment and Climate Change Canada provides weather forecasts and alerts at weather.gc.ca.
- Tell someone your plan for longer walks or hikes, including when you expect to be back.
- Carry the essentials: water, a snack, a layer, a charged phone and a light.
- Respect wildlife and rules: keep your distance, never feed animals, leash dogs where required and pack out what you bring in.
- Know your limits and turn back if conditions or your energy change.
Four seasons
What each season asks of you
Spring
Muddy trails, rising rivers and returning birds. Waterproof footwear helps; stay on paths to protect fragile ground.
Summer
Long days, busy beaches and lakes. Carry water and sun protection; check heat, fire and water-quality advisories.
Autumn
Bright colour, cool air and shorter days. Know your sunset time and carry a light on longer walks.
Winter
Skating, snowshoeing and crisp walks. Dress in layers and never go on ice unless it is officially marked safe.
Outdoor stories
Read before you go
Outdoors
From City Streets to Forest Trails: Finding Green Space Close to Home
Canadian cities are full of green space hiding in plain sight: ravines, river valleys, urban forests and pocket parks.
Weekends
Five Ways to Spend a Weekend Outside Without Going Far
A great outdoor weekend does not need a long drive or special gear. It needs a plan, a bag and a reason to step out the door.
Community
What Makes a Great Neighbourhood Park?
It is rarely the biggest park in the city. It is the one that is close, comfortable and used by everyone.