I want to hike in Canada, but how do I find a group or guide?

While it’s certainly therapeutic to get outside alone, it can often be more rewarding (and safer) to go with others. Many hiking areas in Canada can be challenging or poorly marked, and in bear country especially, it’s always wise to travel in numbers. Canada’s wilderness is vast and waiting to be explored, and doing so with a guide or group is a fantastic idea!

Why consider a guide or group?

Safety first. Hiking is no exception. With more eyes, bodies and minds on the trail, you’re more likely to stay on track, navigate unmarked intersections confidently, ward off predators, and support each other through technical or tricky sections. Especially in wildlife zones, the steady chatter and larger presence of a group help deter unwanted encounters.

Beyond safety, hiking with a guide or group can enrich your experience and provide education along the way. Through others, you’ll be able to learn about local wildlife, wildflowers, geology, hiking stories from this region, and the history of the area you’re exploring.

Hiking with others also fosters a sense of connection, as you share the challenge, joy, and beauty of the trail together.

And let’s be honest, it’s nice to have someone else handle the logistics. Many organized group hikes or guided outings manage the details of transport, parking, and navigation so you can simply show up and enjoy the day. You just focus on being present, capturing photos to preserve the memory, and connecting with the others.

Where to find hiking groups in Canada

Hostels (like HI Canada!)

One of the best ways to meet other adventurers and find hiking buddies is to stay at a hostel. These communal spaces attract like-minded travellers keen to explore the outdoors, and many hostels are located near prime hiking areas.

HI Canada hostels across the country often organize informal daily activities, such as local hikes, nature walks, and other adventures, making it easy to join a group without the hassle of planning. Plus, after a day on the trails, you’ll have a cozy place to return to, with communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and plenty of opportunities to swap stories with fellow hikers over dinner or a celebratory drink.

Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are a goldmine for finding other hikers, trail updates, and last-minute buddies. Look for groups like:

• Hike Alberta
• BC Hiking and Adventure Group
• Ontario Hiking Trails
• Women Who Explore

You can also search ‘Hiking [Province/City]’ on Facebook to find active hiking groups in your area.

Meetup.com

Meetup has dozens of local hiking groups across Canada, which you can specify for your area.

Groups often host weekly hikes, from beginner-friendly rambles to advanced mountain summit routes, with event details, what to bring, and meeting points clearly posted.

Park-Led Interpretive Hikes

Many National and Provincial Parks in Canada offer interpretive hikes led by certified guides or park interpreters. These hikes teach you about wildlife, ecology, and geology while keeping you safe on the trail. Check Parks Canada Guided Activities and experiences for events in your region including Banff, Jasper, Yoho or Kootenay. (And if you decide to stay in the region, you know where to book a bunk!) Provincial Parks websites such as Ontario Park Events calendar also list seasonal guided hikes you can join.

MEC Workshops & Events

Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) offers group events to connect with like-minded communities across Canada. Check the MEC Events Calendar for community hikes, social climbs, gear swap events, community trail clean-ups, and other social events to connect with the kinds of people you want to share the trail with. 

Local Hiking Clubs

Canada has many local and regional hiking clubs. Whether you’re travelling through on a summer road trip, or you live in Canada and often explore its many outdoorsy hubs, be sure to check out: 

• Alpine Club of Canada (ACC). With local sections across the country.
• Bruce Trail Conservancy. Organizes guided hikes along Ontario’s Bruce Trail.
• Rocky Mountains Ramblers Association. Over 300 trips per year.
• Ottawa Rambling Club. Guided day hikes and other recreational activities in Eastern Ontario.

Most clubs welcome newcomers or travellers, so check out which ones resonate with you the most.

Where to find guided hikes in Canada

If you’d rather book a professional guide or organized group trip for your group of backpacking buddies, here are some options:

National and Provincial Parks

• Many parks list licensed guiding companies on their websites (e.g., Banff, Jasper)

Local Guiding Companies

• Banff Adventures
• Yamnuska Mountain Adventures (Canmore)
• Great Divide Nature Interpretation (Lake Louise & Banff)
• Sea to Sky Expeditions (across BC and Canada)

Airbnb Experiences

This is always a great resource, even if you’re staying in a hostel but want to find cool activities during the day. Search “hiking” in your destination on Airbnb Experiences for small group-guided hikes with locals across Canada.

Indigenous-Led Tours

Support Indigenous-owned businesses while learning about local lands and traditions. The following offer guided or group tours:

• Mahikan Trails (Canmore, Banff, Sundre)
• Talaysay Tours (Vancouver, Sunshine Coast, Whistler)
• Zuc'min Guiding (BC, Alberta, across North America)

Choose what’s right for you

When researching a guide or group, ensure it aligns with your goals, fitness level, comfortability, and social vibe. Consider factors like:

• Group size. Smaller groups may offer a more personal experience.
• Guide certifications. Look for ACMG (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides), IGA (Interpretive Guides Association), and Wilderness First Aid certifications.
• What’s included. Transport, gear, snacks, or lunch.
• Pace and terrain. Ask about the route’s difficulty level and how long you’ll be out.
• Logistics. Parking, carpool options, or transit accessibility.

Taking the first step is the most important thing. Booking a guide or joining a group can empower you to explore Canada’s trails confidently while gaining new skills, friendships, and memories. Whether you’re chasing alpine wildflowers in Banff, coastal views on Vancouver Island, or forested trails in Ontario, there’s a group or guide ready to help you hit the trail safely. Find your people and let Canada’s wilderness work its magic!