10 Easy Hikes in Canada Perfect for Young Families

Some of the best family memories are made outside — skipping stones, chasing butterflies, or simply holding hands on a forest path. If you’re looking for easy, stroller-friendly trails where little legs (and big imaginations) can wander safely, you’re in the right place!

From coastal boardwalks to sparkling lakes and shaded forests, these 10 easy hikes across Canada are perfect for young families who want to build unforgettable outdoor memories — without big climbs or long distances. This post is part of a series of easy hikes for young families. Check out our full hiking guide here for more hikes for young families.

Let’s dive in!

1. Stanley Park Seawall (Vancouver, British Columbia)

The Stanley Park Seawall is a world-famous waterfront path that circles Vancouver’s beloved Stanley Park. With ocean breezes, sandy beaches, historic Totem Poles, and towering cedars, it’s the perfect spot for a scenic, family-friendly stroll right by the water.

• Distance: Up to 9 km loop (shorter sections available)
• Time: 30 minutes to 2+ hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, fully paved
• Why Families Love It: Plenty of places to stop for playground breaks, snacks, and beach fun along the way.

2. Grassi Lakes Trail (Canmore, Alberta)

Nestled just outside Canmore, this stunning trail leads you through lush forests, alongside waterfalls, and up to two breathtaking turquoise lakes. Make sure to take the easy route option to avoid steep stairs and keep the journey family-friendly.

• Distance: 4 km return
• Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: No — best for walking toddlers/kids
• Why Families Love It: The colorful lakes feel like a hidden gem, and the easy route still feels adventurous without being too tough.

3. Dundas Valley Trail Centre Trails (Hamilton, Ontario)

The Dundas Valley Trail Centre offers a network of easy walking loops through lush Carolinian forests, gentle hills, and creeks. The old train station trail centre makes a fun starting point for your adventure!

• Distance: Short loops under 3 km
• Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Some gravel trails; good with a sturdy stroller
• Why Families Love It: Beautiful, shaded paths with lots of chances to spot deer, birds, and historic bridges.

4. Kellys Beach Trail (Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick)

This breezy boardwalk trail stretches over dunes and salt marshes, ending at a sandy beach that’s perfect for sandcastle building and splashing. It’s a beautiful introduction to Atlantic Canada’s coastal ecosystems.

• Distance: 1.5 km return
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, boardwalk
• Why Families Love It: A manageable walk that finishes with a beach day — the best of both worlds!

5. Crawford Lake Trail (Milton, Ontario)

Take a peaceful stroll on a wooden boardwalk around Crawford Lake, a rare meromictic lake where water layers don’t mix. Along the way, learn about Indigenous history through interactive exhibits and reconstructed longhouses.

• Distance: 1.5 km loop
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, full boardwalk
• Why Families Love It: Smooth paths, beautiful forest views, and hands-on history make this a truly unique outing.

6. Beaver Lake Loop (Mount Royal Park, Montreal, Quebec)

Beaver Lake on Mount Royal is a family favorite: a sparkling man-made lake surrounded by open green space, shady trees, and gentle walking paths. It feels like an oasis right in the heart of the city.

• Distance: 1.5 km loop
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, paved
• Why Families Love It: An easy walk paired with playgrounds, picnic spots, and gorgeous views of the Montreal skyline.

7. Ominik Marsh Trail (Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba)

Float across wetlands on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by singing frogs, waterfowl, and swaying reeds. Ominik Marsh is a peaceful spot packed with opportunities for nature spotting and slow exploration.

• Distance: 1 km loop
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, boardwalk
• Why Families Love It: A short, fun trail with endless chances to see birds, turtles, and maybe even a beaver!

8. Wascana Trails (Regina, Saskatchewan)

Just outside Regina, the Wascana Trails wind through scenic prairie valleys and alongside meandering creeks. While some loops are more rugged, families can stick to the flatter paths for an easy walk close to nature.

• Distance: Various loops (1–3 km options)
• Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Mostly packed dirt; best with an all-terrain stroller
• Why Families Love It: A quiet natural escape from the city, with gentle hills and lots of space to roam.

9. Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk (Halifax, Nova Scotia)

Wander alongside historic ships, colorful shops, and shimmering waters on one of the world’s longest urban boardwalks. The Halifax Waterfront is lively yet laid-back, with tons of fun pit stops for kids.

• Distance: Up to 4 km
• Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes, fully paved
• Why Families Love It: Flat and lively, with playgrounds, snack shops, and harbor views at every turn.

10. Trillium Trail (Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Oakville, Ontario)

This easy, open trail loops through fields and forests bursting with wildflowers, butterflies, and birdlife. It’s the perfect stroll to pair with a visit to Bronte Creek’s farm animals or playground.

• Distance: 1.5 km loop
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes
• Why Families Love It: A simple, peaceful trail where kids can run ahead safely, plus tons of extra activities nearby.

Final Thoughts

These trails prove that adventure doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to happen outside. Whether you’re strolling along a boardwalk or hiking to a sparkling lake, each step you take together builds confidence, connection, and unforgettable memories.

When your family’s ready to take the next step and try some bigger adventures, check out my post on 10 Must-See Canadian Lookout Hikes for Families Who Love the Outdoors for some trails with a little more “wow”!

Here’s to fresh air, muddy boots, and the best family memories made outside.

You only get one chance to live this life with your kids.

Let’s make it count — outside.
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Related Posts You’ll Love:

• 10 Family-Friendly Waterfall Hikes Across Canada
• 10 National Parks That Make Family Camping Easy (and Amazing)
• 13 Incredible Wildlife Viewing Experiences for Canadian Families

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