Many people peg Toronto as just the CN Tower and endless traffic, but there’s a whole lot more to this city than towering structures and bumper-to-bumper chaos.
Believe it or not, here’s a little nugget for you: amidst the hustle and bustle, Toronto hides some pretty sweet wooded trails and amazing views that are just waiting for your hiking boots.
Yep, you read it right – the city has some awesome hiking spots, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned trailblazers. And we’re more than happy to spill the details on the top hiking trails in our fun, lively city.
Scarborough Bluffs
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/scarborough-bluffs/
Address: Ontario, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
If you’re planning an easy hike in Toronto, Scarborough Bluffs’s 6.4-km out-and-back trail is an excellent choice. You can comfortably explore all the trails in one day, even if you’re hiking alone – and still have time to enjoy the beach!
Upon reaching the Bluffs parking lot, you’ll encounter three trail options. First off, take a right for the Bluffers Hiking Trail, which offers the best views of the white sandstone cliffs. It’s a pretty smooth ride, but it can get a bit dodge-the-crowd around midday.
Once you’re back at the lot, go left to hit Bluffer’s Beach. Head behind the beach for the Cathedral Cliffs trail, where you can stroll beneath those massive sandstone cliffs.
Lastly, for panoramic views of the Bluffs, walk up the road from the parking lot. It’s a steep climb (but nothing that you can’t hike) with no sidewalk, so keep an eye out for traffic.
Wait until you reach the schoolyard, where you can access a legal dirt path to safely traverse the top of the Scarborough Bluffs. If you’re a beginner considering this hike, here’s a helpful tip: arrive before 10:00 AM to experience the trails with fewer visitors.
Toronto Islands
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/
Address: Lake Ontario
Level of difficulty: Easy
It’s totally worth taking the ferry to the Toronto Islands for some awesome lakefront hiking and views of the city skyline.
This 14-kilometer hike (one way) starts at the Ward Island ferry terminal on the northern side of the islands. It goes all the way to the Hanlan Point Ferry Terminal on the opposite side of the crescent sandbar.
The island is mostly flat, with paved and gravel paths, making it a great spot for newbie hikers to practice. There are a few small hills, but nothing too challenging.
If you tackle the whole thing, you’ll get to check out Hanlan Beach, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, and the cool arched bridge between the Centre and Middle Islands. Of course, you’ll also see the Centreville Amusement Park and the beach bungalows of Ward’s Island.
High Park Area Trails
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Website: http://www.highparktoronto.com/
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-0338
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
Looking for a family-friendly hike that everyone can enjoy? Check out the 5.1 kilometers of awesome trails in High Park.
The trails in the park are the outer paths winding through the surrounding forests. When you roll up to the main entrance, take a left and follow the dirt path right by the gate – it’ll lead you to a bunch of trails looping around the park.
These trails are perfect for a laid-back hike, but if your crew is up for it, you can jog along. Just be careful with those sneaky tree roots!
As the biggest park in Toronto, it’s not just about hiking though; you can also explore two lakes, a mini zoo with local animals (including capybaras), a cozy café, plenty of tennis courts, and even a pool. After your hike, hit a bunch of family-friendly activities to relax.
Moore Park Ravine
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Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/409/index.html
Address: 205 Moore Ave, Toronto, ON M4T 2K7, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-2489
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Level of difficulty: Easy
With rivers like the Rouge plus the handiwork of ancient glaciers, Toronto is decked out with a bunch of ravines. Tucked into one of these is Moore Park, with a trail you can hit up that covers about 6 kilometers, cutting through Carolinian forests.
The charm of hiking at Moore Park Loop Trail lies not only in the scenic wooded setting but also in the flat trails, making it a pretty easy trek. The initial stretch is especially flat, with a wide gravel path that you might share with cyclists and dog walkers.
As you keep on the trail, you’ll go past Mount Pleasant Road and hit up David A. Balfour Park. The path then gets a bit narrow and turns into a dirt trail in the woods, so, heads up – be a bit careful as you make your way through!
Humber River Recreational Trail
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/humber-river-recreation-trail
Address: Humber River in Western Toronto, beside Bloor West Village
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
Exploring the trails along the Humber River is a must-try experience!
The Humber River Recreation Trail is a paradise for leisurely hikes, as it’s surrounded by beautiful nature. It goes on for more than 20 kilometers along the river, giving you lots of choices to suit whatever you’re into (hike, bike, jog, or run).
For an effortlessly enjoyable trek, check out the section between James Gardens and Weston Lions Park. This 2-kilometer stretch weaves through well-kept gardens, verdant meadows, and serene wetlands.
This laid-back trail remains open throughout the year, thanks to its flat terrain. However, in winter, specific sections may become slippery. So, it’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes and dress appropriately for the season when you hike here.
Lower Don River Trail
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/lower-don-recreation-trail
Address: 10 Pottery Road, Toronto, Ontario
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
The Lower Don River Trail is like a combo of a hike and an art walk, all rolled into one. Stretching 6.8 kilometers, this hiking trail brings a unique twist to the typical nature experience.
You might catch some noise from the nearby Don Valley Parkway, but that’s the city-nature blend kicking in. Along the way, you’ll stroll by various parks and side hikes – do them all, and your hike can extend to over 13 kilometers!
The paved trail is smooth and easy-going, passing over bridges and old railway lines. That’s what makes it a chill hiking spot any time of the year.
But, if you want the best vibes, hit it up in autumn when the sumac trees paint the scene a vibrant red. Because, honestly, who doesn’t want those perfect hiking selfies?
Orchard Trail
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/orchard-trail
Address: Little Rouge Creek, Toronto, Ontario
Contact details: +1 416-264-2020
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Another fantastic hiking spot you can’t miss in Toronto is at Rouge National Urban Park. It’s the Orchard Trail, which is a hike perfect for both casual strollers and moderate adventurers.
This 5.1-kilometer loop begins at Little Rouge Creek, where you’ll cross a bridge to get into the woods. As you wander along the nicely kept trails, you can keep an eye out for bits and pieces of old orchards – they’re like a little nod to the area’s farming history.
But don’t forget, this trail can be a bit of a challenge, with moderate inclines. Don’t worry, though – the viewing platform that awaits you will treat you to the beauty of the Rouge Marsh.
Brickworks Trail
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/brickworks-trail
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-596-7670
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate
While the Brickworks Trail is one of the side trails branching off the Lower Don River Trail, you can also tackle it as a standalone adventure. It’s a shorter hike, just 2.4 kilometers, but brace yourself; it’s a bit more challenging, especially if you’re not much of a hiker.
You’ll be cruising around the river on a dirt path, but it’s totally worth it for some top-notch birdwatching action. The place is buzzing with wildlife (think big squirrels playing chicken with you), and you might catch some frog serenades in the background.
For the wanderers out there, give the east hill at Brickworks Park a shot. Climb up, and you’ll snag a killer view of the park, plus a sneak peek of the Toronto skyline way off in the distance.
Quick tip: hit this trail up in the middle of the week, and you’ll pretty much have it to yourself. It’s like your own little world, with just the sound of leaves crunching and birds around you.
Glen Stewart Ravine
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Website: Glen Stewart Ravine, Toronto, ON M4E 1R9, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate
One of Toronto’s hidden gems for hiking is located in the Beaches neighborhood. The Glen Stewart Ravine Trail is just a short walk from the main street of the Beaches. Although it’s a brief 1.3-kilometer trail, it does surprise with its diverse terrain.
Picture gentle inclines and descents as you follow the winding path through the forested ravine. Then, there are wooden boardwalks that lift you above the gurgling stream, giving you peaks of nature with moss-covered rocks and vibrant foliage.
But the real standout of the whole trek? Those giant metal staircases! They help you ascend to the treetop level, giving you a serious workout and a view above the smaller maples and pines.
Bruce Trail: Toronto Section
Website: https://torontobrucetrailclub.org/
Address: Campbellville Rd, Milton, Ontario, Canada (90 minutes west of Toronto)
Level of difficulty: Moderate to hard
Sure, the Bruce Trail is hands down the best hike near Toronto and one of the finest in Ontario overall. However, it’s no walk in the park; it’s a bit of a challenge with its uneven terrain and some steeper inclines.
Technically, the whole hike stretches from Toronto to Tobermory, covering a distance of nearly 500 kilometers. Now, if you’re not up for the full 500K, here’s some good news – the Toronto section is a more manageable 50.5-kilometer stretch.
It takes you through chill forests, open meadows, and even cruises over the Silver Creek Conservation Area, giving you a taste of different scenes.
If you’re not up for taking on the trail solo, the Toronto Bruce Trail Club hosts free group hikes too. There’s an expert guide in the mix that will be your go-to for spotting unique views and pointing you to the side trails that are totally worth exploring.
Albion Hills Trail
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Address: 16500 Peel Regional Rd 50, Caledon, ON L7E 3E7, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-880-0227
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (hiking hours)
Are you up for an overnight hiking getaway? Well, Albion Hills Conservation Park is one of the closest parks to Toronto for just that.
The park offers a beautiful lake and spots to go camping, catering to families and solo hikers looking to stay after a day of trekking.
Inside the park, there are several short trails, and you can combine them to create a moderately challenging 12-kilometer loop trail that circles the park. And as you stroll along, you’ll get to see dense trees, wild raspberries, and plenty of deer.
If you’re a tourist and new to the area, we actually recommend bringing a GPS or map with you as the trail isn’t well marked and it’s easy to get lost!
Rattlesnake Point
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Website: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/rattlesnake-point/
Address: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9E 0M9, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-854-0262
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Level of difficulty: Moderate to hard
Ask any local about their favorite hike in Toronto, and you’ll likely hear Rattlesnake Point mentioned many times, and for good reasons.
It’s a local favorite primarily due to its stunningly beautiful hikes and the surrounding areas. We’re talking majestic forests, striking rock formations, canyons, and sweeping viewpoints that define this 10.5-kilometer trail.
Fair warning, though – it comes with some fairly challenging ascents and descents. The trail is also home to lots of local wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you come across some critters during your hike!
Reservations aren’t required, but they are recommended. So, if you’re up for hiking here, visit their website to make a reservation.