Urban Hiking: The City-Friendly Way to Explore
Urban hiking is gaining popularity across Canada as more people seek meaningful movement, fresh air, and a connection with their surroundings—without leaving the city. Whether you’re strolling through local neighborhoods, climbing hidden staircases, or exploring riverside trails, urban hiking combines fitness with discovery. And best of all? You don’t need a mountain to feel the benefits of a hike.
In this guide, we’ll explore why urban hiking is booming, how to get started, and the best footwear to keep your steps comfortable from pavement to park trail.
Why Urban Hiking Is the Next Big Outdoor Trend
Hiking has always been synonymous with nature. But in recent years, urban hiking has carved its own space in the world of outdoor recreation. Here’s why it’s catching on:
Accessibility: No need for a car or long drives to the trailhead. Just step outside your front door.
Time-Friendly: With no travel time, even short walks become micro-adventures.
Affordable: No permits, park fees, or gear rentals.
Cultural Discovery: Unlike rural trails, urban hiking lets you explore street art, architecture, cafés, and green alleys.
Urban hiking is essentially a low-barrier, high-reward activity—perfect for Canadians who want to stay active year-round.
The Health Benefits of Urban Hiking
Walking, even in city environments, is a proven way to support your health. According to the World Health Organization, 150 minutes of moderate activity per week reduces the risk of chronic disease. Urban hiking, with its mix of steps, inclines, and terrain changes, boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and supports mental clarity.
Plus, urban hiking offers a powerful psychological reset. It helps reduce screen time, improves mood, and fosters mindfulness as you focus on your pace, breath, and surroundings. For many, it’s become an antidote to daily stress.
How to Get Started with Urban Hiking
Urban hiking is easy to begin—no special skills required. Here are a few tips to turn a simple city walk into a hiking experience:
1. Plan a Route With Variety
Choose a route that blends nature and urban elements:
Combine parks, pedestrian bridges, riverside paths, and staircases.
Explore older neighborhoods with interesting architecture.
Use tools like AllTrails, Komoot, or Google Maps in pedestrian mode.
2. Add a Challenge
Include hills, long staircases, or uneven surfaces. Many Canadian cities have natural elevation changes to boost your cardio.
3. Track Your Distance
Aim for 6–15 km depending on your level. Apps like Strava, Fitbit, or your phone’s Health app can help you stay consistent.
4. Invite a Friend
Urban hiking is a great social activity. It turns a casual meetup into a shared adventure.
Best Canadian Cities for Urban Hiking
Canada is full of great spots for urban hiking. Here are a few examples:
Montreal: Start in Old Montreal, climb the stairs up to Mount Royal, descend via the Outremont trails.
Toronto: Explore Don Valley Trails, Riverdale Park, and the city’s network of hidden staircases.
Vancouver: Combine Stanley Park trails, False Creek, and the Seawall for a nature-meets-city loop.
Québec City: Mix historic cobblestone paths, Terrasse Dufferin, and the Promenade Samuel-de-Champlain.
Calgary: Use the Bow River Pathway to explore downtown and nature parks like Prince's Island.
Even smaller cities offer charming routes—think boardwalks, mural alleys, and scenic waterfronts.
What to Wear: Footwear for Urban Hiking
Comfort is key when you plan to walk 10,000+ steps on mixed terrain. And while running shoes may work short-term, serious urban hikers benefit from more supportive, trail-ready footwear. Grisport offers several walking shoes designed exactly for this purpose.
✔ Bellagio Series – For Urban Exploration With Grip
Models: Bellagio #1, #2, #3, #4
Lightweight and breathable with Vibram soles for top traction
Ideal for sidewalks, gravel paths, and light park trails
✔ Fuji Series – Cushioned Support for Long Distances
Models: Fuji #1 and #2
Features shock-absorbing insoles and sturdy leather design
A great choice if your hikes often exceed 10 km
✔ Aspen – Slim Profile, All-Terrain Ready
Models: Aspen & Aspen #2
Stylish, low-cut hiking shoes with a durable outsole and precise fit
Great for city explorers who don’t want a bulky shoe
All of these models feature Vibram soles for reliable grip and Grisport’s comfort-oriented design, perfect for long urban walks that might transition into light nature trails.
Urban Hiking Essentials to Pack
Even in a city setting, a few essentials go a long way:
Water bottle (reusable, of course)
Small backpack
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Layers in spring/fall weather
Your phone
Optional but fun: a journal, a book, or a camera for spontaneous stops.
The Future of Hiking Might Be Right Outside Your Door
Urban hiking isn’t a compromise—it’s a redefinition of what outdoor exploration can look like. It’s a response to our modern lives: flexible, accessible, rewarding. Whether you have 45 minutes after work or a full weekend to roam your city’s trails, the benefits are real and lasting.
And with the right footwear—like Grisport’s durable walking shoes—you can turn any sidewalk into a scenic route, and any hill into a mini adventure.
Ready to explore the city differently?
Lace up your hiking shoes, plan a route, and embrace the adventure just outside your door.
