Best Trails Around Toronto

Did you just moved to Toronto and you are looking for relaxing places close tho this bustling city? Are you here on holidays and tired of the city life? Toronto can be intense but it does offer many green areas and nature reserves so lace up your shoes because there are plenty of green areas to discover!

Toronto has an impressive array of walking and hiking trails that showcase the city’s unique landscapes, including urban river valleys, scenic lakefronts, and dense forests. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots for hiking around Toronto, each offering its own slice of nature without venturing too far from the city.

Humber River Recreation Trail

The Humber River Recreation Trail is a mostly flat, paved path that stretches for 25 kilometers, from Thackery Park down to Humber Bay on Lake Ontario. You can easily cover the full trail in one day but of course you don’t have to. If you are looking for a shorter walk you can tackle a manageable section of the trail, starting from the Humbermeade neighborhood in north Toronto and following the path south past the Lambton Golf Club. You’ll experience the beauty of Toronto’s river system, and if you have the energy, you can continue on to Bloor West Village. The trail is perfect for those of you who have kids and it is surely stroller friendly.

Moore Park Ravine

The Moore Park Ravine is part of Toronto’s extensive ravine system, carved by rivers and ancient glaciers. Here, you’ll find the Moore Park Loop Trail, a scenic 6-kilometer path that meanders through lush Carolinian forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique landmarks like the 1920s pylons of Governor’s Bridge, adding a touch of history to your hike. This trail is a fantastic spot to enjoy Toronto’s natural landscapes within the city limits and is accessible for hikers of all levels.

Tommy Thompson Park

For a lakeside hike, Tommy Thompson Park is an excellent choice. Situated on a long peninsula that juts into Lake Ontario, the park offers a multi-use paved trail that leads all the way to the Toronto Harbour Lighthouse at the tip. This 5-kilometer path is ideal for families, cyclists, and rollerbladers, and is accessible to those with strollers or mobility aids. For a quieter experience, you can take the pedestrian-only grass trail that runs alongside the paved path. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, and you’ll get fantastic views of the Toronto skyline as you make your way through the park.

Taylor Creek Park

The Taylor Creek Park Trail follows the course of Taylor Creek, one of the tributaries that forms the Don River alongside the East and West Don rivers. The park features a 3-kilometer path that includes both paved and dirt trails, allowing for a mixed-terrain hiking experience. With numerous bridges crossing the ravine and Taylor Creek, this trail provides plenty of scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as the area is home to a variety of birds, and you might even spot a beaver if you’re lucky!

Lynde Shores Conservation Area

Located just outside of Toronto, Lynde Shores Conservation Area is a fantastic spot for a day trip. This conservation area offers a range of outdoor activities, including a canoe launch and five kilometers of hiking trails. It’s also linked to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a 3,600-kilometer trail that stretches from Collingwood on Georgian Bay all the way to the Ontario-Quebec border. The portion of the trail that passes through Lynde Shores is fully paved and wheelchair accessible, making it an ideal destination for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re looking for a casual walk or a more intense day on the trail, Toronto’s walking spots offer something for everyone. Each of these locations provides a unique view of the city’s natural beauty and a refreshing escape from the urban hustle.

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