1. Humber River Recreation Trail

If you haven’t checked out the trails around Humber River yet, you definitely should! Humber River Recreation Trail is an 8.2-kilometre multi-use trail that’s a super popular destination with us Torontonians who love to get outside and enjoy nature.

But that’s not all – if you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, the trail actually stretches for about 30 kilometres, following Humber River all the way down to Lake Ontario.

You can hike, jog, bike, or even rollerblade your way along the trail, all while taking in the breathtaking views of Toronto skyline and the sparkling waters of Lake Ontario.

The southern part of Humber Bay Park serves as a jumpoff point for the trail, which heads straight to Sunnyside Park, High Park, and Etienne Brule Park. Keep your eyes peeled for some cool wildlife while you’re out there.

If you’re up for more adventure, head north to Humber Arboretum, a nature reserve that protects the local flora and fauna. 

2. Burke Brook Ravine and Sherwood Park Trail

At the heart of Toronto is where you’ll find Burke Brook Ravine and Sherwood Park Trail. This chill 6.5-kilometre trail is quite an easy trek as it offers a range of established walking paths – perfect for beginners.

Just before finishing this short trail is Sherwood Park, which offers a blend of urban and natural elements in the area. 

This picturesque park also comes complete with trails and facilities such as public bathrooms, picnic areas, and even sports facilities so you could truly appreciate the more serene side of the city.

3. High Park Area Trails

High Park Area Trails, located midcity, offers approximately 5.3-kilometre hiking trails with an elevation gain of 56 metres. 

Its established trails make the place safe for kids no matter the age, so you can bring your friends and family to enjoy the ambience of nature here while breathing in fresh air. 

Plus, you can even play with your pets here off leash to let them soak up some sun or meet new fur-iends. Wouldn’t that be amazing?

4. Mount Nemo Conservation Area

Located at Burlington Ontario just northwest of Toronto, Mount Nemo offers an established forest trail to the summit, stretching to 5.3 kilometres with an elevation gain of 300 metres.

Mount Nemo is a conservation area as part of the Niagara Escarpment, which serves as a home to a variety of plants and animals. In fact, it’s considered a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

This moderate hike is super popular among locals, so make sure to have your reservations confirmed. Walk-in hikers are also allowed, but bookings are needed to ensure that the management will secure you a parking slot.

Mount Nemo attracts hikers, rock climbers, and even birdwatchers who are down to some photography sessions of the stunning birds on air. 

5. Lower Don River Trail

The Lower Don River Trail stretches over 6.8 kilometres and follows the course of Don River from the mouth of Lake Ontario, offering serene views of the city while escaping from the hustle and bustle of Toronto.

The best part? It’s so easy to explore as it’s so accessible! Only a chain-link fence separates Don River Trail from the city, and you can see right through it when walking along Toronto streets across Don River Valley Park.

6. Albion Hills Trail

Welcome to Albion Hills Trail, a cozy camping ground owned and managed by Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). You and your friends are in for a treat if you’re looking for an overnight camping experience.

Even Torontonians love coming here to camp! With a 12-kilometre trail loop and a moderate elevation gain of 185 meters around the area, Albion Hills offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and even skiing during winter.

There are over 50 kilometres of trails to explore in addition to the 12 km circumscribing loop! We highly recommend spending a day or two here to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

7. Rouge Valley Vista Trail

If you haven’t gone to Rogue Valley Vista Trail, you’re missing out on a hidden gem! Located in Rouge National Forest Park, the largest urban park in North America, this trail a hiker’s paradise.

This trail is a must-visit anytime of the year. Honestly though, it’s especially breathtaking during the fall when the trees shed red, orange, and yellow leaves, leaving a colourful carpet trail.

We’re not gonna lie, though – the vista trail is considered a moderate hike, with an elevation gain of 145 metres. But it’s worth the effort, as Rogue Valley offers lookout points with panoramic views of Toronto in the distance.

And the best part? Admission is totally free! 

8. Scarborough Bluffs

With a length of 6.8 kilometres located in the East End of Toronto, Scarborough Bluffs is a friendly trail that will take you through the Bluffers Hiking Trail with minimal elevation gain. It is also accessible from Bluffer’s Park and Cathedral Bluffs Park.

This means you can hike Scarborough Bluffs whether you’re an experience hiker or a novice. It will take you right through the scenic landscape of Lake Ontario shoreline, which is reminiscent of Greece’s Santorini.

This Toronto natural wonder is also designated as an Environmentally Significant Area, so if you haven’t dropped by, be sure to visit as soon as possible!

9. Rattlesnake Point & Nassagaweya Canyon Loop

Looking for a hiking destination that’s within reach of Toronto? Rattlesnake Point & Nassagaweya Canyon Loop, located in Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, is just an hour’s drive west of Toronto!

With a 10.5-kilometre hiking trail, this area is perfect for hikers to enjoy the lush forests along the escarpment trail and the Vista Adventure Trail, as Rattlesnake is part of the Niagara escarpment.

As you hike, keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that makes Rattlesnake so special for us locals. Don’t be surprised to see turkey vultures flying over your head – it’s a common sight along the hike!

Take in the stunning views of the area, including the majestic rock formations and the imposing canyons of the Nassagaweya Canyon.  And don’t forget to snap some photos for the ‘gram, okay?

10. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Located just northwest of Toronto in Dufferin County, the drive to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is worth it. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Mono Cliff’s breathtaking geological formations such as limestone cliffs, caves, and crevices.

We guarantee that going through their 8 kilometre footbridge path feels like being transported to Middle Earth as it will take you through the scenic views of Cliff-Top Side Trail. 

While the path may prove to be a bit of a challenge for our recreational tourists due to the 250 metre elevation, going through ups and downs on the wooden staircases will surely be worth it for the views.

11. Orchard Trail

This Orchard Trail is well-loved by locals as it’s so close to ideal camping spots like Rouge Park. In fact, this trail is so accessible from the city that there’s no reason why you can’t go here!

Your journey starts at Twyn Rivers Area with an easy 120 metre elevation, which will gradually incline up to 300 metres. 

You’ll also be passing by the highlight of this short trail, Rouge Lookout, which allows hikers and trekkers to see the stunning views of Rouge River Valley.

We love this trail so much because we get to see a variety of wildlife here, like deer, foxes, and birds! It also serves as a home to a variety of endangered plant species, so for nature lovers, this is the perfect destination.

12. Moore Park Ravine Trail

Located right at the heart of Toronto, the Moore Park Ravine Trail allows you to just relax while taking a walk through the heart of the city.

You’ll be graced by a majestic canopy of oaks, maples, and beech trees here as you traverse along Mud Creek. Your journey will end at Moore Park Ravine, which connects to the main road.

The trail is so flat you can just walk it all the way through without breaking a sweat! That’s why it’s frequented by joggers, bikers, and pedestrians – it’s a great way to get active without having to leave the city.

13. Bruce Trail

Bruce Trail is in the bucket list of every local hiker, and for good reason.

As the oldest and the longest marked hiking trail in Canada, you’ll never run out of activities. This moderately challenging route is a great choice for trekking, hiking, backpacking, and camping.

You’ll also be acquainted with splendid views of streams and rivers along the way, as well as the Niagara Falls and Cheltenham Badlands.

You can join a hike organised by BTC, or embark on your own adventure. 

14. Taylor Creek Trail

Taylor Creek Trail is well-loved by locals because to the breathtaking views of the urban and natural landscapes in the area.

You can make your way here via the Victoria Park or Coxwell subway station after an exhausting day at work and school. 

With Taylor Creek Trail, you’ll traverse a couple of steel and wooden bridges for an easy hiking and trekking experience for you and your friends.

15. Elora Gorge

Managed by the Grand River Conservation Authority, Elora Gorge is only actually open from May 1 to October 15 annually, so it’s best to plan ahead.

This friendly trail loop is located around the Grand River and is perfect for hikers who want to take on a more challenging route.

You’ll be greeted by the trail’s impressive landscape replete with natural rock formations such as limestone cliffs and even rushing waterfalls! It’s also perfect for a laidback picnic – who wouldn’t want a gorgeous backdrop like this?

---

Torontonians, did we miss any trails that should absolutely be on this list, or do you have useful tips for any of these featured hikes?

Do our future visitors a favour and let them know in the comments below!