Exploring Hiking Trails near Toronto

Toronto might be a bustling metropolis, but just beyond the city limits, nature lovers are spoiled with beautiful hiking trails that offer stunning views, wildlife, and the perfect escape from urban life. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon getaway or a full-day adventure, I’ve had the chance to explore many trails around the Greater Toronto Area, and they’re a must for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. From scenic lake views to historical landmarks, these trails are sure to captivate your sense of adventure. Plus, if you’re planning a winter hike, MY-IVVI has you covered with our “Winter Hike & Cozy Escape: Scenic Trails Near Toronto” tours!

Here are my top 7 picks for hiking trails near Toronto, based on personal experience:

1. Scarborough Bluffs – The Bluffer’s Park Trail

Location: 1 Brimley Rd S, Scarborough, ON M1M 1T9

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall

If you’re craving a mix of beach and cliffside views, the Scarborough Bluffs Trail is perfect. Stretching 15 kilometers along Lake Ontario’s shores, this trail gives you stunning panoramic views of the towering cliffs that stand as high as 90 meters. I’ve been here during both spring and summer, and each season offers its own beauty. In spring, you’ll witness the trees budding, while summer brings out vibrant beachgoers.

Tips:

• Arrive early for parking; this place gets busy, especially on weekends.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy some downtime by the water after your hike.
• Don’t forget your camera – the views from the top of the bluffs are breathtaking.

2. Rouge National Urban Park – Vista Trail

Location: 1749 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Rouge National Urban Park is an urban escape like no other, and it’s one of my favorites due to its proximity to the city. The Vista Trail is a 1.5-kilometer loop that winds through wetlands and forests, offering picturesque views of the Rouge River. If you’re lucky, you might spot deer or some of the over 200 bird species that call this park home.

This trail offers a unique sense of seclusion despite being so close to the city. During the winter months, MY-IVVI’s Winter Hike & Cozy Escape tour brings a whole new charm to the area, with snow-covered trees creating a magical landscape.

Tips:

• Wear layers if you’re visiting in winter, as it can get chilly near the river.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• Pack some bug spray in the warmer months, as the wetlands can attract mosquitoes.

3. Dundas Peak – Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

Location: 650 Governors Rd, Dundas, ON L9H 5E3

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage, Spring for waterfalls

For breathtaking views, Dundas Peak in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is a must-visit. This was one of my first hikes outside of Toronto, and the panoramic views from the peak are stunning, especially during fall when the leaves turn vibrant reds and oranges. The 3.9-kilometer round-trip hike takes you through lush forests before reaching the peak, which overlooks the Dundas Valley.

Don’t miss Tews Falls and Webster’s Falls, two beautiful waterfalls you’ll pass along the way.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak fall foliage season.
• The trail can get muddy after rain, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
• If you visit in winter, the frozen waterfalls are magical, but the trail can be slippery – crampons or hiking poles are a good idea.

4. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Location: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9T 2Y1

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Summer and Fall

Rattlesnake Point is an ideal spot for rock climbers and hikers alike. The views here are absolutely unforgettable. The park has multiple trails, but my personal favorite is the Buffalo Crag Trail, a 3-kilometer loop offering panoramic views over the escarpment.

If you’re an experienced hiker, consider tackling the Nassagaweya Canyon Trail, which stretches over 7 kilometers and connects to Crawford Lake.

Tips:

• Bring plenty of water as the trail doesn’t have many refill stations.
• The cliffs can be steep, so keep an eye on your footing, especially with kids.
• This area is known for birdwatching – bring a guidebook if you’re interested in identifying species.

5. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Location: 795086 3rd Line EHS, Shelburne, ON L9V 3T7

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, located about an hour from Toronto, is part of the Bruce Trail and offers a stunning landscape of cliffs, rock formations, and beautiful forests. The Cliff-Top Side Trail provides you with breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and the Stairway Trail is an Instagram-worthy photo op. I loved the mixture of flat terrain and steep climbs, which keeps things exciting.

Tips:

• Pack snacks or a lunch – the park has several scenic spots perfect for a mid-hike break.
• Wear sturdy shoes as some of the cliff areas can be uneven.
• Visit on a weekday if possible to avoid weekend crowds.

6. Elora Gorge – Elora Gorge Conservation Area

Location: 7400 Wellington County Rd 21, Elora, ON N0B 1S0

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Summer

Elora Gorge is one of the most scenic spots in Ontario, and hiking along the gorge is an unforgettable experience. The Elora Gorge Trail follows the Grand River as it cuts through the limestone gorge, offering stunning views of the cliffs and the river below. I took this trail on a summer day, and the river views were absolutely beautiful.

If you’re visiting in the summer, consider tubing down the Grand River after your hike!

Tips:

• Bring a swimsuit if you plan on tubing after your hike.
• Wear sunscreen, as there are several exposed sections along the trail.
• Consider booking ahead if you’re visiting in the summer, as the area can get crowded.

7. Mount Nemo Conservation Area

Location: 5317 Guelph Line, Burlington, ON L7P 0A5

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time to Visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

Mount Nemo, part of the Niagara Escarpment, offers some of the best views I’ve seen in Southern Ontario. The Loop Trail takes about two hours to complete and features gorgeous lookouts, perfect for catching a sunset. The trail is also relatively quiet compared to some of the more well-known spots, making it a peaceful escape.

What I love most about Mount Nemo is its biodiversity. You’ll come across rare ferns and beautiful wildflowers, especially in the spring. The trail is moderately challenging but worth the effort for the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Tips:

• Pack a jacket, even in the summer, as it can get chilly at the top of the escarpment.
• This is a dog-friendly trail, so feel free to bring your furry friend along.
• If you’re a rock climber, Mount Nemo offers some great routes, so pack your gear if you’re into that.

Winter Hiking & Cozy Escape Tours

Winter hiking brings a whole new level of beauty to these trails, and MY-IVVI is thrilled to offer guided “Winter Hike & Cozy Escape: Scenic Trails Near Toronto” tours. Imagine snow-covered trees, frozen waterfalls, and the crisp, cold air as you explore some of the most breathtaking spots in the region. After a day of hiking, we’ll take you to a cozy spot where you can warm up with a hot drink by the fire. If you’ve never experienced winter hiking, now’s your chance – and trust me, it’s an unforgettable experience!

What to Bring on Your Hike:

• Sturdy hiking boots: Trails can be rocky, muddy, or icy depending on the season.
• Layers: Weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared.
• Water: Even on cooler days, staying hydrated is key.
• Snacks or lunch: Many of these trails have scenic spots perfect for a picnic.
• Map or GPS: Some of these trails can be hard to navigate without a map, especially in less trafficked areas.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential, especially on exposed trails.
• Bug spray: Wetlands and forested areas can attract mosquitoes.

Also read our blog post – Choosing the Perfect Hiking Shoes

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to get outdoors and explore, these trails around Toronto offer something for everyone. And for those ready to take on the winter season, don’t miss MY-IVVI’s Winter Hike & Cozy Escape tour. Happy hiking!