
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in London, Ontario, Canada
1. Point Pelee National Park
Located at the southern tip of Ontario, offers a diverse ecosystem with over 370 bird species and a beautiful marsh boardwalk.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers the best birdwatching opportunities in Canada, with a variety of migratory birds.
- Marsh Boardwalk: Provides easy access to the marsh area without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
- Spring Migration: Known for its spring migration of butterflies and warblers.
2. London to Goderich Rail Trail
A 93 km long trail that follows the old CN railway line from London to Goderich, offering scenic views of rural Ontario.
- Length: One of the longest rail trails in Southwestern Ontario.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of fields, forests, and small towns along the way.
- Accessibility: Ideal for cyclists, hikers, and rollerbladers due to its flat terrain.
3. Komoka Provincial Park
A picturesque park featuring a Carolinian forest, an ancient burial ground, and a reconstructed Iroquoian village.
- Historical Significance: Provides insights into the region's Indigenous history with its archaeological sites.
- Nature Trails: Offers various trails for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
- Reconstructed Iroquoian Village: Unique feature showcasing the lifestyle of the Indigenous people in the area.
4. Forks of the Thames Wildlife Area
A wildlife sanctuary with a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and fields, attracting numerous bird species.
- Biodiversity: Supports a diverse range of plant and animal life.
- Wildlife Viewing Tower: Includes a viewing tower for birdwatchers to observe the various species.
- Hiking Trails: Offers several trails for hikers of all skill levels.
5. Medway Valley Heritage Forest
A natural forest reserve along the Medway River featuring various ecosystems and a historic railway.
- Historical Railway: Features remnants of an old railway, offering insights into London's industrial past.
- Ecosystem Diversity: Boasts a variety of ecosystems, including deciduous forests, wetlands, and meadows.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities for wildlife observation, including beavers, deer, and various bird species.
6. Twin Valley Trails
A network of trails along the Thames River offering scenic views, wildlife observation, and picnic areas.
- River Views: Provides beautiful views of the Thames River and its surrounding landscape.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities for wildlife observation, including birds, deer, and beavers.
- Network of Trails: A network of interconnected trails for hikers of all skill levels.
7. Rondeau Provincial Park
A coastal park offering a variety of habitats, including sandy beaches, dunes, and forests.
- Coastal Habitats: Provides a unique coastal ecosystem for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
- Beach Access: Offers direct access to Lake Erie's sandy beaches.
- Camping Opportunities: Allows for overnight camping in the park.
8. Thames Valley Parkway Trails
A series of trails along the Thames River, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- River Views: Provides beautiful views of the Thames River and its surrounding landscape.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities for wildlife observation, including birds, deer, and beavers.
- Urban Accessibility: Easily accessible from London's downtown area.
9. Pinery Provincial Park
A large sandy beach and dune system located on the shores of Lake Huron, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.
- Sandy Beach: Provides a large sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing.
- Dune System: Features a large dune system, providing unique hiking opportunities.
- Camping Opportunities: Allows for overnight camping in the park.
10. Bruce Trail (London section)
A portion of the famous Bruce Trail that passes through London, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of the Niagara Escarpment.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities for wildlife observation, including birds and deer.
- Part of a Longer Trail: Part of the larger Bruce Trail, allowing hikers to continue their journey along the Niagara Escarpment.
11. Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum
A cemetery featuring a beautiful arboretum with over 200 tree species.
- Arboretum: Features an extensive collection of trees, providing a unique urban forest.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the region's history through its grave markers and monuments.
- Peaceful Walking Trails: Provides peaceful walking trails for a relaxing hike.
12. Springbank Park
A large urban park featuring gardens, walking trails, and the beautiful Springbank Gardens Conservatory.
- Conservatory: Features a beautiful conservatory with tropical plants and gardens.
- Walking Trails: Offers several walking trails for hikers of all skill levels.
- Urban Accessibility: Easily accessible from downtown London.
13. Harris Park
A large urban park featuring walking trails, sports fields, and a beautiful pond.
- Walking Trails: Offers several walking trails for hikers of all skill levels.
- Sports Facilities: Features sports fields and courts for various activities.
- Beautiful Pond: Includes a picturesque pond, providing a peaceful setting.
14. Westminster Ponds Centre
A nature center featuring walking trails, wetlands, and birdwatching opportunities.
- Wetland Habitats: Provides a unique habitat for various wildlife species.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, especially during the spring migration.
- Nature Education: Provides educational programs and resources about local wildlife and ecosystems.
15. Huron Country Rail Trail
A scenic trail that follows an old railway line through Huron County, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of rural landscapes, farms, and forests.
- Length: Spans over 82 km, making it one of the longest rail trails in Ontario.
- Accessibility: Ideal for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders due to its flat terrain.