This Summer dive into Adventure with the Best Scenic Hiking Trails in Ontario - WOW-MAPLE (2024)

As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of summer, our minds are abuzz with plans for sun-soaked adventures. Ontario, with its stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty, offers an array of hiking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside paths to challenging cliffside routes, there’s something for everyone. Here, we’ve curated a list of fifteen breathtaking Ontario hiking trails that are worth exploring this summer.

A.Y. Jackson Trail

Located in Sudbury, the A.Y. Jackson Trail is a 3 km hike that offers a captivating view of High Falls cascading into the Sudbury Basin. This trail is named after the famous Canadian artist A.Y. Jackson, and its interconnected paths provide ample opportunities to admire both art and nature. As you hike, you’ll encounter three trails that intertwine, each offering unique vistas and experiences.

Where:45 km northwest of downtown Sudbury on Hwy. 144

Bond Lake Loop

Just twenty minutes north of Toronto, the Bond Lake Loop in Richmond Hill is a hidden gem. Part of the Oak Ridges Corridor Conservation Reserve, this trail meanders through mature forests, wetlands, meadows, and around pristine kettle lakes. The serene blue waters of Bond Lake make this easy hiking trail feel like a retreat to cottage country, offering a perfect escape from the city bustle.

Where:12691 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill

Grand Trunk Trail

Steeped in history, the Grand Trunk Trail in St. Marys spans 3.2 km and provides panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside from the Sarnia Bridge. Originally part of the Grand Trunk Railway, this trail offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Where:St. Marys, Ontario

Hermitage Trail

Nestled in the charming town of Ancaster, the Hermitage Trail offers a peaceful and scenic hike with a touch of history. The trail is home to the ruins of a magnificent stone mansion built in 1855, adding an element of intrigue to your journey. This quiet hike through lush greenery and historic remnants provides a perfect setting for reflection and exploration.

Where:Sulphur Springs Road, Ancaster

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

One of Ontario’s most popular hiking destinations, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park boasts seven moderately challenging hikes, each offering unique and stunning views. Not far from the park, you’ll find the cascading Tiffany Falls and the waterfalls at Spencer Gorge Conservation Area. The clifftop trails here are both unique and gorgeous, making this park a summertime treat for hikers of all levels.

Where:795086 3rd Line EHS, Shelburne

Mount Nemo Conservation Area

For those seeking breathtaking views with minimal effort, Mount Nemo Conservation Area is the ideal destination. Located on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment, this accessible cliff-edge trail features ancient cedars, thousand-year-old crevice caves, and limestone boulders covered in green ferns. The trail offers some of the best cliff ecosystems in the province, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Where:5317 Guelph Line, Burlington

Nipigon River Recreation Trail

Spanning 10.1 km, the Nipigon River Recreation Trail is a challenging hike suitable for those aged eight and up. The trail follows the shoreline of the Nipigon River from Nipigon to Red Rock and along Nipigon Bay on Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake. With several clifftop lookout points offering panoramic views, this trail is a paradise for adventurous hikers.

Where:023 ON-628, Red Rock, ON

The Beltline Trail

Divided into three sections, The Beltline Trail in Toronto offers a nine-kilometre urban adventure. The York Beltline Trail, the Kay Gardner Beltline Park, and the Ravine Beltline Trail each provide unique experiences, from lush green spaces to vibrant public art. Whether you tackle one section or challenge yourself to the entire stretch, this trail offers a dynamic and scenic urban hike.

Where:Beltline Trail, Toronto

The Don River Valley Park

Spanning 200 hectares, The Don River Valley Park is one of Toronto’s largest and most encompassing parks. The trail runs from Pottery Road to Corktown Common, featuring beautiful green spaces, public art, and a welcoming atmosphere. With multiple hiking trails to choose from, this park offers a comprehensive outdoor experience within the city limits.

Where:https://maps.app.goo.gl/i6Uym35VJSn5ckN88

The Tay Shore Trail

Stretching almost 18 km between Waubaushene and Midland, the Tay Shore Trail is a hiker’s dream. This multi-use trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail and features dense forests and stunning views of Georgian Bay. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, the Tay Shore Trail provides a picturesque journey through Ontario’s natural beauty.

Where:Between Waubaushene and Midland

Pinery Provincial Park

For beach lovers, Pinery Provincial Park is an idyllic destination. With 10 km of sandy shoreline along Lake Huron, this park offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities. National Geographic has ranked Pinery’s sunsets among the top ten in the world. The park also features 38 km of hiking trails, as well as options for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating. Whether you’re wandering along the walking trails or exploring the 14 km bike trail, Pinery Provincial Park promises a memorable experience.

Where: 9526 Lakeshore Rd, Grand Bend

Rouge Valley Conservation Centre

Immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city at the Rouge Valley Conservation Centre. This urban oasis offers multiple hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. From marshes and meadows to boardwalks and an old mill, the Rouge Valley provides a rich tapestry of natural and historical sights, making it a perfect spot for a spring hike.

Where:1749 Meadowvale Rd, Scarborough

Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs offer stunning views and easy accessibility via the TTC. The trails and lookout points provide spectacular vistas of Lake Ontario, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The Bluffs’ unique geological formations and breathtaking scenery make every visit a visual delight.

Where:1 Brimley Rd S, Bluffers Park, Toronto

West Toronto Railpath

The West Toronto Railpath is a distinctly urban trail that runs along former railway tracks. This pathway is adorned with street art and offers a unique urban hiking experience. As you walk, you’ll find numerous coffee shops and restaurants, making it a vibrant and dynamic trail for city explorers.

Where:https://maps.app.goo.gl/kw6YS8pABYLuKH9A7

White River Suspension Bridge Trail

Among Ontario’s suspension bridges, the White River Suspension Bridge Trail stands out for its dramatic views. The 18-kilometre trek culminates in crossing the White River Suspension Bridge, which soars 23 metres above the powerful Chigamiwinigum Falls. This exhilarating hike offers jaw-dropping views and an unforgettable adventure.

Where: Pukaskwa National Park, Heron Bay, Ontario

Conclusion

Ontario’s diverse landscape offers an abundance of scenic hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From historical trails to urban pathways and challenging cliffside routes, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy this summer. Each trail provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the beauty that Ontario has to offer. So, lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure that promises breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

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