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The 16 Best Hiking Trails Near Toronto

For outdoor enthusiasts looking for an escape from the bustling city, there are plenty of hiking trails near Toronto that offer stunning natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're a novice hiker or an experienced trekker, there are options to suit every level of experience.

From scenic lookout points to challenging terrain, hikers can find a variety of trails just a short drive from the city. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which trail to explore. To help narrow down the choices, consider factors such as difficulty level, distance, and unique features along the way.

Embark on a memorable adventure and explore the best hiking trails near Toronto that offer a perfect combination of natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

The 16 Best Hiking Trails Near Toronto:

How this guide is ordered

Selected by our Toronto editors from businesses across the city, with weight given to a reputation that has lasted, details we could verify and the quality of the service itself. Each list is revisited regularly, and corrections from readers are welcome.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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Featured options

Select an option to see its summary.

#1
Lower Don Parklands
4.61,147 reviews
#2
Moccasin Trail Park
4.6836 reviews
#3
Crothers Woods
4.6775 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Lower Don Parklands#1
What stands out

  • Beautiful natural space, perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring

  • Great place for families with children and pets, with ample space for social distancing

  • Picturesque views of the Don River and well-maintained trails

  • Unique location offering a mix of urban and natural elements

Lower Don Parklands

4.61,147 reviews
44 Beechwood Dr, Toronto, ON, Canada

Lower Don Parklands offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including Hiking. Families will appreciate the Good for kids and Kid-friendly hikes options available. Dog owners can also bring their furry friends along as Dogs are allowed in the park.

The park has received a high rating of 4.6 based on 1147 reviews. Some key points highlighted by visitors include:

Visitors have commended the park for its scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and overall peaceful atmosphere. Whether you are seeking a tranquil stroll or an adventurous bike ride, Lower Don Parklands provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor enjoyment.

Moccasin Trail Park#2
What stands out

  • Visitors appreciate the diverse natural scenery, including tunnels, bridges, and streams with visible fish.

  • The park's proximity to urban areas allows for easy access but comes with minimal noise pollution.

  • Guests enjoy the opportunity to witness fall colors and experience the tranquil ambiance of the park.

Moccasin Trail Park

4.6836 reviews
55 Green Belt Dr, Toronto, ON L4Z 2P5, Canada

Moccasin Trail Park is a serene escape nestled in Toronto, offering a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors. From accessible amenities like wheelchair-accessible parking to kid-friendly hikes and dog-friendly paths, this park caters to all nature enthusiasts. The well-developed trail system provides a mix of forested areas and open fields, perfect for hiking and picnicking.

Crothers Woods#3
What stands out

  • Visitors appreciate the natural trails and picturesque views of the Toronto skyline.

  • The trails cater to all age groups, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.

  • Many enjoy the challenging terrains and the opportunity for mountain biking in the area.

Crothers Woods

4.6775 reviews
Crothers Woods Trail, East York, ON M4H 1P6, Canada

Crothers Woods is a popular hiking area in East York, Ontario, offering a variety of activities such as cycling, hiking, jogging, and walking on its diverse trails. It is a favorite destination for nature lovers seeking to escape the city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. With dogs allowed on the trails, it is a perfect spot for dog walkers and their furry companions.

Betty Sutherland Trail Park#4
What stands out

  • Quiet 2 km trail connecting York Mills and Sheppard with a very woody environment and a tranquil Don River stream running through.

  • Nice trail park suitable for cycling and biking, offering peaceful dirt trail paths in the woods, perfect for sunrise and sunset walks or jogging.

  • Unique charm with no playgrounds or picnic areas, attracting visitors from all walks of life who appreciate the serene atmosphere and the varied wildlife.

Betty Sutherland Trail Park

4.5612 reviews
250 Duncan Mill Rd, Toronto, ON, Canada

Betty Sutherland Trail Park offers a tranquil experience for nature lovers in the heart of Toronto. With amenities like wheelchair-accessible entrances, picnic tables, and the option to bring your furry friends along, it provides a serene escape from the bustling city life. The park is ideal for activities like hiking and is kid-friendly, making it a great spot for families to enjoy.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Chorley Park to Beltline Trail Connection#5
What stands out

  • Great easy trail for all ages, leading to Toronto's Evergreen Brickworks

  • Spectacular areas and trails for families with ample space for everyone

  • Opportunities to spot Canadian wildlife and soak in stunning fall foliage

  • Peaceful trail amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, ideal for a family outing

Chorley Park to Beltline Trail Connection

4.8102 reviews
245 Douglas Dr, Toronto, ON M4W 2B9, Canada

Chorley Park to Beltline Trail Connection offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From Cycling to Hiking and Jogging, there's something for everyone. Families with children will appreciate the Kid-friendly hikes and the Dogs allowed policy, making it a great spot for a day out with furry friends.

The trail has garnered a stellar rating of 4.8 stars based on 102 reviews. Visitors rave about the picturesque views and accessibility from the residential neighborhood of Rosedale. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Don't miss the chance to explore this hidden gem in Toronto!

East Don Trail#6
What stands out

  • Great park with easy and pleasant walking

  • Perfect for bird, fish, and mammal watching

  • Beautiful and newly constructed trail with sloped roads for added excitement

  • Beautiful time to walk the trail and see the trees change colors

East Don Trail

4.943 reviews
Wynford Heights Crescent, Toronto, ON M3C, Canada

East Don Trail offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as birdwatching, cycling, hiking, jogging, and walking. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly hikes and the overall kid-friendly environment. Dog owners can also bring their furry friends along, as dogs are allowed on the trail.

The trail has received excellent reviews from visitors, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 43 reviews. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Overall, East Don Trail is a highly recommended outdoor destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Toronto.

Orchard Trail#7
What stands out

  • Fairly easy hike. It offers a mix of elevations and scenic views of the river.

  • Great elevated views of the river and peaceful surroundings. Renovated trail sections.

  • Featuring various trails like Cedar, Orchard, Vista, and Mast loops. A favorite spot for hikers.

  • A lovely trail with some steep spots and beautiful fall views. Best experienced early to avoid crowds.

Orchard Trail

4.6199 reviews
Toronto, ON M1B 5W8, Canada

Orchard Trail offers a wonderful experience for hiking enthusiasts in Toronto. With options for hiking, loop trails, and walking, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Families with children and pet owners are welcome, as the trail is kid-friendly and dogs are allowed on the premises. The trail provides a mix of forested areas and open spaces, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.

West Humber Recreational Trail#8
What stands out

  • Visitors enjoy the calming experience by the river, finding multiple spots to relax and unwind.

  • The trail is perfect for cycling and offers a tranquil environment for running and hiking.

  • While some have found the trail to be crowded with cyclists, it remains a lovely escape to nature.

  • Customers appreciate the peaceful ambiance of the trail, despite potential crowding in the evenings.

West Humber Recreational Trail

4.6168 reviews
Humber River Recreational Trail, Toronto, ON M9V 1H7, Canada

West Humber Recreational Trail offers a stunning experience along the Humber River, making it a popular spot for birdwatching, cycling, hiking, jogging, and walking. The trail is wheelchair-accessible and dog-friendly, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities. Customers have praised the trail for its serene atmosphere and beautiful flora and fauna.

Upper Don Recreation Trail#9
What stands out

  • Beautiful trail with flat terrain and scenic views, ideal for biking and walking.

  • Picturesque and tranquil environment, perfect for skateboarding and leisure activities.

  • An excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're walking, biking, or running.

  • Ideal for city dwellers seeking a natural retreat, suitable for biking and hiking endeavors.

Upper Don Recreation Trail

4.781 reviews
Unnamed Road, Toronto, ON M2K 1E1, Canada

Upper Don Recreation Trail provides a serene escape for nature enthusiasts in Toronto. With a rating of 4.7, it offers a variety of activities like hiking, cycling, jogging, and walking for visitors. Families with children and pets are also welcome, as the trail is kid-friendly and dogs are allowed outside.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Visit Upper Don Recreation Trail to immerse yourself in the beauty of Toronto's natural landscape.

Warden Woods#10
What stands out

  • A favorite spot for walks and runs to unwind and enjoy nature's beauty.

  • Perfect for therapeutic walks through the woods.

  • Accessible, biking friendly, with benches, and dog-friendly.

Warden Woods

4.4367 reviews
74 Firvalley Ct, Toronto, ON M1H 3W5, Canada

Warden Woods is a serene escape nestled in Toronto that offers a range of services and amenities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is family-friendly with kid-friendly hikes and even a dog park for furry companions. Customers appreciate the tranquility of the area, as highlighted in their reviews:

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a place for outdoor activities, or just a calming walk through nature, Warden Woods has something to offer for everyone.

Upper Don Recreation Trail#11
What stands out

  • A beautiful trail for families and solo walkers and bikers. Surrounded by natural beauty and woodland critters. Good place to bird watch as well.

  • Enjoyable year-round, good times outdoors. Dress appropriately, watch your step and have fun!

  • Another nice piece of connecting trail that runs along the river and is well-paved for walking and riding.

Upper Don Recreation Trail

4.730 reviews
Toronto, ON, Canada

Upper Don Recreation Trail is a popular hiking area in Toronto, ON, Canada. This trail offers a variety of activities including birdwatching, cycling, hiking, jogging, and walking. It is kid-friendly and dogs are allowed on the trail.

Customers have rated this trail 4.7 out of 5, with glowing reviews:

Overall, visitors rave about the natural beauty and tranquility of Upper Don Recreation Trail. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk or an active adventure, this trail offers something for everyone.

Cedar Trail and the Beare Wetlands Loop#12
What stands out

  • A visitor mentioned the interesting sights along Cedar Trail, such as beavers swimming with geese and the beautiful meadows.

  • Another reviewer appreciated the recent upgrades to the stairs and the addition of a pond landscape, making the hike more enjoyable.

  • One reviewer highlighted the variety of trails to choose from, the beautiful scenery, and the ease of maintaining a safe distance from others.

  • Another reviewer mentioned the stunning foliage colors in autumn and the diverse wildlife sightings along the trail.

Cedar Trail and the Beare Wetlands Loop

4.631 reviews
Bottom of, Zoo Rd, Toronto, ON, Canada

Cedar Trail and the Beare Wetlands Loop offers a pristine hiking area for outdoor enthusiasts in Toronto. The trail provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the park's natural wonders. The trail features lush cedar forests, picturesque meadows, and tranquil streams, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and hiking.

Waterfront trail#13
What stands out

  • Memories of Last Ontario

  • Spectacular views

  • Shortcomings at Cherry and Lakeshore to Cherry Beach

Waterfront trail

4.86 reviews
2 Silver Birch Ave, Toronto, ON M4E 3K9, Canada

Waterfront Trail offers a breathtaking hiking experience along the beautiful shores of Toronto. The trail is perfect for all ages, including families with children and pets, as dogs are allowed to join in on the adventure.

Customer reviews rave about their experiences, with key points summarized below:

Visitors have praised the trail for its scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Enjoy an unforgettable hike at Waterfront Trail.

Lavender Creek Trail#14
What stands out

  • This is a GREAT little trail in the neighborhood with a fully paved path lined with trees, benches, and a children's playground.

  • Despite some garbage along the trail reported by a visitor, many find it as a beautiful walking space that feels like it isn't in Toronto.

  • Visitors appreciate the low traffic making it a great spot for less social dogs and have mentioned the trail to be well maintained and safe for walking.

  • Many enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the trail, perfect for spending time with nature and clearing one's mind.

Lavender Creek Trail

4.275 reviews
Toronto, ON, Canada

Lavender Creek Trail is a popular hiking area located in Toronto, ON, Canada. This beautiful trail offers a pleasant experience for visitors of all ages. With a rating of 4.2 based on 75 reviews, it is evident that this hidden gem is loved by many.

With walking being one of the main activities available on this trail and dogs allowed both on and outside the trail, Lavender Creek Trail is a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers looking for a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Duncan Creek Trail#15
What stands out

  • Peaceful and secluded trail

  • Beautiful views and diverse wildlife

  • Perfect for family outings

  • Dog-friendly and kid-friendly

Duncan Creek Trail

4.417 reviews
Toronto, ON M2H 3J7, Canada

Duncan Creek Trail is a serene escape in Toronto, offering a variety of outdoor activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy cycling, hiking, jogging, and walking along the picturesque trail. Perfect for families, this trail is kid-friendly and allows dogs to join in on the adventure too.

Customer reviews praise the trail for its peaceful environment and beautiful views. A visitor mentioned that it is a perfect place for a leisurely walk or bike ride, with benches along the way for resting. Another guest highlighted the abundance of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

West Humber Trail#16
What stands out

  • A small steep descent after Toronto library leads to Humber Arboretum, with several trails and paths to explore.

  • Walk or cycle along the stretch running along the river and enjoy the bird flocks by the Humber River.

  • A reviewer mentions the sunset near the pond area in summer as being particularly spectacular.

  • One visitor notes that it's a multi-use trail so expect cyclists and advises staying to the right as a courtesy.

West Humber Trail

4.319 reviews
Indian Line, Toronto, ON, Canada

West Humber Trail is a picturesque hiking area located in Toronto, ON, Canada. The trail offers a variety of activities such as Birdwatching, Cycling, Hiking, Jogging, and Walking. With its pet-friendly policy, dogs are welcome to join in on the adventure. This trail is not only great for adults but also kid-friendly. Visitors have praised the trail for its serene environment and beautiful views.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Lower Don Parklands 4.61,147
#2Moccasin Trail Park 4.6836
#3Crothers Woods 4.6775
#4Betty Sutherland Trail Park 4.5612
#5Chorley Park to Beltline Trail Connection 4.8102
#6East Don Trail 4.943
#7Orchard Trail 4.6199
#8West Humber Recreational Trail 4.6168
#9Upper Don Recreation Trail 4.781
#10Warden Woods 4.4367
#11Upper Don Recreation Trail 4.730
#12Cedar Trail and the Beare Wetlands Loop 4.631
#13Waterfront trail 4.86
#14Lavender Creek Trail 4.275
#15Duncan Creek Trail 4.417
#16West Humber Trail 4.319

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Map of Hiking Trails Near Toronto

Explore the great outdoors like never before with our comprehensive guide to hiking trails near Toronto. Traverse lush forests, scenic cliffs, and picturesque landscapes sure to appeal to every nature enthusiast. Below, find our map of all hiking trails near Toronto, your key to unlocking the city's most beautiful hidden gems.

How to choose Hiking Trails in Toronto

  1. Difficulty level.
  2. Distance.
  3. Scenic views.
  4. Accessibility.
  5. Trail features.

Frequently asked questions

Best hiking trails near Toronto

If you're looking for a place to escape the city and enjoy nature, there are several fantastic hiking trails near Toronto. One popular option is the Bruce Trail, which stretches over 890 kilometers and offers different sections suitable for all levels of hikers. The Rouge National Urban Park is another great choice, where you can explore diverse habitats and a variety of wildlife just a short drive from downtown Toronto. For a more challenging hike, head to the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, which features stunning waterfalls and beautiful forested trails.

Difficulty levels of the hiking trails

For beginner hikers or those looking for a relaxing stroll in nature, trails like the Evergreen Brick Works or the High Park Nature Trails are ideal options near Toronto. These paths are well-maintained, relatively flat, and surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Intermediate hikers might enjoy the Don Valley Trails, which offer more varied terrain and longer distances. For advanced hikers seeking a challenge, the Ganaraska Trail or sections of the Bruce Trail provide more rugged terrain and longer distances.

Accessing hiking trails near Toronto

Most of the hiking trails near Toronto are easily accessible by both car and public transportation. For those without a vehicle, many trails have transit stops nearby or can be accessed by shuttle services. For those driving, there are several parking lots available at popular trailheads. Some trails may require a parking pass or have limited parking, so it's essential to check the parking regulations before heading out. Additionally, some trails may have entrance fees, so be sure to bring cash or card for these situations.

Best time to visit hiking trails near Toronto

The best time to visit hiking trails near Toronto depends on your preferences and the season. Spring is a lovely time to see wildflowers in bloom, while summer offers longer daylight hours for exploring. Fall is famous for its stunning foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking. Winter can be a magical time to visit certain trails, especially if you enjoy snowshoeing or winter hiking. Be sure to check the trail conditions and weather forecast before heading out, as some trails may be closed or impassable during certain times of the year.

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