Ian CheesemanMy friend recently conquered the best family-friendly bike trails in Toronto (happy for him). Now, he’s looking to go on trails that’ll give him bragging rights—yep, we’re talking about mountain biking trails.
Unlike the city’s easy, kid-friendly biking trails, the MTB trails in the 6ix are a bit more hardcore. Imagine fast riding on singletracks, steep climbs, and technical descents.
Now, not to brag, but I’ve been known to not fall over when I’m on a mountain bike (at least, not 100% of the time)! In addition to that, I’m an awesome researcher.
So, after poring over local MTB forums and rating platforms and chatting with local MTB legends, I now have a list of the best mountain biking trails in Toronto. Finish them all for some legit MTB street cred.
Don Valley Trail
Media credit: mountainbiklin
Website: https://donrivervalleypark.ca/things-to-do/the-trails/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/don-valley-bike-trail/
Address: Toronto
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-4386
Let’s start with a Toronto MTB classic—Don Valley Trail. It’s a sprawling network of trails amidst stunning green spaces, and these trails can be accessed from multiple spots, including Pottery Road and near the Bayview Extension.
My favorite here is called the “Ridge Trail”—a more technical path that hugs the ravine wall. You should expect short, steep climbs, off-camber turns, and some spicy sections that definitely qualify it as an intermediate to expert-level route.
You could also go on the “Lower Trail,” which is a fast, flowy singletrack that follows the Don River and crisscrosses the railway. Just a heads up: this trail runs along the CN railway land, where there are occasional crackdowns.
For a longer ride, keep going through Ernest Seton Thompson Park and into Sunnybrook Park. You’ll cruise past forests and link up with major parks like Edwards Gardens and East Don Parkland.
Pro Tip:
If you’re new to the Don Valley Trail, we recommend dropping in from Pottery Road, and you’ll be right in the heart of the action. And since the area has a large network of trails, don’t forget your map or trail app!
Crothers Woods
Media credit: ncyhelka
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/parks-and-recreation-facilities/trails/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crothers-woods-trail/
Address: Crothers Woods Trail, East York
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 392-2489
Once a DIY playground for local riders, Crothers Woods has evolved into a legit MTB haven, thanks to some thoughtful planning between cyclists and the city. It’s now full of winding gravel trails that cut through dense forest, with maples, oaks, and beeches.
Fair warning—the trails here are no joke; they twist and turn up and down the ravine walls, giving your legs (and lungs) a solid workout. There are also steep climbs and fun descents, plus the terrain changes just enough to keep things interesting.
While biking, you’ll pass through cool spots like Sun Valley and Cottonwood Flats. And if you slow down, you might even spot a red-tailed hawk or a deer hanging out.
We suggest dropping in on the east side of Bayview, just south of Moore Avenue. But if you’re up for a burn, start at the bottom near the Pottery Road parking lot.
Pro Tip:
Crothers Woods gets busy, especially on weekends. So, we recommend riding early or on a weekday if you want to avoid a pack of Sunday dog walkers.
High Park Loops
Media credit: gunzthebarber
Website: https://www.highparktoronto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/high-park-loop/
Address: 1873 Bloor Street West
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-0338
If you feel like cruising on an MTB without needing full suspension or full armor, then go on the High Park Loops. This 5 km trail winds through forests, garden paths, and even touches the lakeshore via the Martin Goodman Trail.
This MTB route is generally considered easy, however, there are a few steeper hills scattered throughout. The trails are well-maintained, too, with both natural dirt and paved paths.
I recommend taking Spring Creek for a tree-canopied path or going on Wendigo Creek for views of a beautiful runoff valley. As a bonus, you might catch a glimpse of the occasional squirrel, chipmunk, or heron in several areas, like near Grenadier Pond.
If you want the place to yourself, head out at dawn. You’ll find empty paths, peaceful wildlife, and a sunrise that’s worth waking up early for!
Pro Tip:
High Park Loops has plenty of amenities if you decide to make your MTB trip a full-day adventure. The area has playgrounds, picnic spots, an outdoor pool, and even off-leash dog areas.
Taylor Creek Park
Media credit: cycling_toronto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/parks-and-recreation-facilities/location/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylor-creek-park/
Address: 260 Dawes Rd, East York
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-5058
Often seen as an extension of the Don Valley trail, Taylor Creek Park is a great MTB trail if you’re not in the mood for something too technical. Paths are well-maintained and wind through a scenic wooded corridor that follows the Lower Don River.
The main loop is 9.2 km long and offers smooth flows and gentle climbs—we recommend this for intermediate riders or beginners who want to level up. You’ll pass by tall trees, creeks, and quiet glades.
If you’re linking up from the Don Valley trails, you can hop onto Taylor Creek right after the bridge near where the Don River trail ends. Or, you can start fresh at the Victoria Park trailhead and head west for a lovely cruise.
Do watch out for other trail users. Since Taylor Creek is multi-use, you’ll likely encounter other cyclists, dog walkers, and even birders along the way.
Pro Tip:
Ride early or late in the day for a quieter experience at Taylor Creek Park. You’ll avoid most of the foot traffic and catch some beautiful light filtering through the trees.
Humber River Recreational Trail
Media credit: el_bar
Website: https://ontariobiketrails.com/item/humber-river-park-trail/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humber-river-recreational-trail/
Address: Toronto
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 338-0338
Humber River Recreational Trail stretches from Humber Bay Bridge near Lake Ontario all the way up to North York, winding through parks, woodlands, and historic spots like Old Mill. It’s not very technical, but it’s perfect for a long, rewarding ride.
Great for casual and intermediate mountain bikers, you’ll pass creeks, waterfalls, and wide-open green spaces. Note that there’s a staircase near Weston Road and St. Phillips Road where you’ll need to push your bike up a ramp.
I love how well-connected this trail is—you can hop on at the south end by the lake, head north, and even link up with the Finch Hydro Corridor Trail by exiting Weston and Finch. Basically, it’s great for building out a full day’s loop.
Not sure where to start? Try the loop from Humber Bay Bridge to Etienne Brule Park—you’ll ride past King’s Mill Park and see some wildlife.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to bring a fully-charged phone! Humber River Recreational Trail offers tons of Insta-worthy spots such as the Old Mill area, river views, and even the Humber Bay Bridge itself.
Toronto Islands
Media credit: stallsadventures
Website: https://www.torontoisland.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toronto.islands/
Address: Lake Ontario
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (416) 203-6163
Accessible by ferry (Hanlan’s Point, Centre Island, or Ward’s Island), the Toronto Islands will give you a feel of island life. It offers winding paved paths, wooden bridges, and charming heritage cottage-lined streets.
We recommend looping around a 14 km circuit of connected islands, making your way from Hanlan’s Point to Ward’s Island without retracing your route. You’ll pass sandy beaches and even a historic lighthouse.
You can choose to leave the gear at home since bike rentals are available near Centre Island—MTB, tandem, and even quad bikes. And unlike most mainland trails, there’s no traffic to worry about.
If you want one of the best skyline views in the city, bike near the Centre Island Pier. It’s also a great pit stop for a snack, photos, and that lovely Lake Ontario breeze.
Pro Tip:
Planning to ride the Toronto Islands? We suggest catching the earliest ferry you can—especially on weekends—to beat the crowds.
Caledon Trailway Path
Media credit: caledontrailway
Website: https://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trail/caledon-trailway
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caledontrailway/
Address: Terra Cotta
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: 311
Caledon Trailway Path is a 35 km multi-use trail that follows a repurposed railway line and stretches across Caledon. The surface is crushed limestone—smooth, hard-packed (ideal for hybrid and MTBs)—it’s surely worth the short trip north of Toronto.
The trail is easily accessible, with free parking and multiple entry points such as Ken Whillans, Caledon East Community Complex, Lloyd Wilson Arena, and more. I just love seeing open farm fields and quaint little villages like Cheltenham.
What’s cool is that this trailway has bike repair stations here and there. And the trail also intersects with some of Ontario’s most well-known hiking and cycling paths.
My favorite pit stop here is Caledon East—a sweet main street that has bakeries, shops, and a fantastic local spot called Main Street Ice Cream!
Pro Tip:
If you’re not up for the full 35 km ride, start around Caledon East and do a half-day loop—there’s still plenty to see without going the full distance.
