
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Toronto, Canada
1. The Bruce Trail
Extensive trail system spanning over 800 km from Niagara to Tobermory, offering diverse landscapes and panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment.
- Longest Hike: The Bruce Trail is the longest and oldest hiking trail in Canada.
- Scenic Views: The trail offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, forests, cliffs, and wildlife.
- Accessibility: Accessible via public transportation and multiple entry points along the route.
2. Rouge National Urban Park
Canada's first national urban park with over 40 km of hiking trails, showcasing natural habitats within Toronto city limits.
- Urban Hike: Rouge National Urban Park offers a unique urban hiking experience in the heart of Toronto.
- Nature Preservation: The park preserves diverse ecosystems and wildlife, providing opportunities for education and observation.
- Easy Access: Located near public transportation and easily accessible from downtown Toronto.
3. The Leslie Street Spit
A 5.2 km man-made peninsula offering a variety of habitats for over 280 bird species and other wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The Leslie Street Spit is one of the best spots in Toronto for birdwatching.
- Accessible Hike: The trail is flat and easy, making it accessible to all hikers regardless of experience level.
- Industrial History: The Spit offers a fascinating look into Toronto's industrial history with its numerous abandoned structures.
4. The Don Valley Ravine Trails
A network of hiking trails along the Don River in Toronto, offering scenic views and a chance to explore urban wilderness.
- Urban Wilderness: The Don Valley Ravine Trails provide an immersive experience of Toronto's urban wilderness.
- Historical Sites: Trails pass by historic sites like the Spadina Fort and Bermondsey Mills.
- Adventure Activities: Opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing along the trails.
5. The Humber River Trail
A 27 km paved trail following the Humber River from Lake Ontario to Rutherford Avenue.
- City Connector: The Humber River Trail connects many Toronto neighborhoods and attractions.
- Urban Green Space: The trail offers an urban green space for walking, cycling, or hiking.
- Wildlife Sightings: Possibility of spotting beavers, otters, herons, and other wildlife along the trail.
6. The Toronto Islands
A collection of islands offering scenic hiking trails, beaches, and unique views of downtown Toronto.
- Island Escape: The Toronto Islands provide an escape from the city with a relaxing beach vibe.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of downtown Toronto and the city skyline.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe birds, rabbits, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
7. The Scarborough Bluffs
Cliffs overlooking Lake Ontario with hiking trails offering panoramic views of the lake.
- Lake Views: The Scarborough Bluffs provide breathtaking views of Lake Ontario.
- Natural Beauty: Trails offer a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the cliffs and surrounding woodlands.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal spot for capturing memorable photographs of the lake, sunsets, and city skyline.
8. The Rouge Valley Conservation Centre
A conservation area with trails offering opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Wildlife Observation: The Rouge Valley Conservation Centre provides excellent opportunities for observing wildlife.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and guided hikes for visitors.
- Nature Preservation: The conservation centre aims to preserve the natural habitats of numerous plant and animal species.
9. The Black Creek Pioneer Village
A living history museum with trails through historic farmland, offering a glimpse into early Ontario life.
- Historical Experience: The Black Creek Pioneer Village offers a unique historical experience.
- Trails and Buildings: Includes hiking trails and over 40 historic buildings to explore.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, demonstrations, and events related to early Ontario life.
10. The Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie Street Spit Extension)
An extension of the Leslie Street Spit offering additional hiking trails and wildlife observation opportunities.
- Bird Watching: The park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially in migration season.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including rare species like the Piping Plover.
- Art Installations: Includes several permanent and temporary art installations along the trails.
11. The Ward's Island- Centreville Ferry Dock Trail
A trail connecting two Toronto Islands, offering scenic views and a chance to explore lesser-known areas.
- Scenic Views: The trail offers stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario.
- Lesser-Known Areas: Explore lesser-known areas of the Toronto Islands that are off the beaten path.
- Ferry Service: Accessible by ferry service from downtown Toronto.
12. The Tam O'Shanter Park- Rouge Valley Trail
A section of the Rouge Valley Trail offering hiking trails and wildlife observation opportunities.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species.
- Historical Sites: Trails pass by historic sites like the King's Mill and Dixie Grist Mill.
- Nature Preservation: The park aims to preserve the natural habitats of numerous plant and animal species.
13. The Ashbridges Bay Park Trail
A trail along the Lake Ontario shoreline in Toronto, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Lake Views: The trail offers stunning views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe birds, rabbits, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Recreational Amenities: Includes beaches, picnic areas, and sports facilities along the trail.
14. The High Park Sculpture Garden Trail
A trail through High Park featuring sculptures by renowned Canadian artists.
- Art Appreciation: Enjoy artwork from Canadian artists while exploring the park.
- Scenic Views: The trail offers scenic views of the park's gardens, lakefront, and city skyline.
- Urban Oasis: High Park serves as an urban oasis within Toronto.
15. The Martin Goodman Trail - Exhibition Place to Cherry Street
A section of the Martin Goodman Trail offering a mix of urban and natural scenery along Lake Ontario.
- Urban-Nature Blend: The trail offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments.
- City Connector: Connects various attractions along Lake Ontario, including Exhibition Place and Cherry Beach.
- Recreational Amenities: Includes beaches, parks, and sports facilities along the trail.