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How to Set Your Goals and Where to Log Your Kilometres

DATE: August 13, 2025

Congratulations on registering for the Great Canadian Hike! As you begin planning your outings, setting your targets and building support from your donors, here’s a look at a few suggested kilometre goals – and some ways to reach these goals! 

Weekend Wellness: a quick Saturday morning jaunt on the Trail

Our most attainable suggested kilometre goal – 10 KM over a month – is aimed at those looking to slot Trail time into their busy schedule. Hit the Trail on the weekend for a quick walk, bike or roll (think Stanley Park along the City of Vancouver Trail or The Forks along the City of Winnipeg section of the Trans Canada Trail), take in the sights and sounds of nature, and let your worries fade away! 

A person runs through a park with a shimmering bay in the background.

PHOTO CREDIT: NELSON MOUELLIC/DESTINATION VANCOUVER

Daily Routine: build consistent Trail time into your schedule

For those who thrive on daily activity and aim to fit in outdoor time on the regular, our Daily Routine suggested kilometre goal is a great fit. You’ll have no trouble meeting this goal if you fit in 30 to 45 minutes of walking time per day throughout the Great Canadian Hike. Bike to school with your kids, commute to work or run your errands on foot, or add in time for an evening jog or bike ride – you’ve got it covered! Head out for a ride on the Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail, hit the City of Fredericton – North and Valley and South Riverfront trails, or get in some cycling time on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail! 

True North Trek: it’s outdoor adventure time!

Our most ambitious kilometre goal is for the adventurers out there who are looking to up their game and log some serious trail time. Aim for 5 KM per day, and you’ll have no problem reaching this goal. Our suggestions: head out for a long bike ride on l’Estriade, do a round-trip on the Millennium Trail – Whitehorse, or head out to Fundy National Park or along the East Coast Trail for some incredible coastal views. 
A paved trail with grass on either side reaches a fork covered with trees with a river on one side and grassland on the other.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEXUS ROSE

Set your own pace (and make up your own kilometre goal name)

If none of the above kilometre goals speak to you, no problem whatsoever! Set your own goal – and set up a name for yourself, if you’re so inclined; the sky’s the limit! Planning a bikepacking adventure on the Crow Wing Trail? Heading out for a stroll along the Bow River in Calgary or around Frame Lake in Yellowknife? Any number of kilometres – logged at any time – is a wonderful way to participate in the Great Canadian Hike. We’re so happy you’re here! 

Find more Great Canadian Hike inspiration here!

Main image credit: Bich-Anh Nguyen