Sure we’re biased, but the GTHA is home to some freakin’ unreal hiking and walking trails. From swimming spots, nature viewpoints and lots of perfect picnicking areas… they’re practically begging to be discovered. But for many of us living in downtown, getting around via car (or even owning a car) is just not an option. Think that should stop you from exploring your province?! Not a chance team, it’s GO time!
We teamed up with GO Transit this summer to bring you a list of 5 of the best hiking trails in Ontario that are easily accessible by GO Transit. With a goal of encouraging Ontarians to get outside and get movin’, GO Transit has just introduced their new Weekend Passes. These passes give you unlimited travel by train or bus for just $10 for a single day (Saturday, Sunday or statutory holiday) and $15 ALL weekend long (Saturday, Sunday and statutory holiday). The Weekend Passes are exclusively available online as GO e-ticket options.
Venturing a little further off the beaten path means being rewarded with some unreal gems. You in?
Great Dog Walking Trail in Mississauga – Get to Culham Trail from Erindale GO Station
Leavin’ the pup at home? No thanks. If you’re looking for a great dog hiking trail, look no further than Culham Trail in Erindale Park. There you (and your best friend) will get to enjoy old homesteads, orchards, dams, rail and mill sites, and plenty of green space! Not only is it one of the best dog walking routes, but it also features a pretty unreal bike trail. P.s. Dogs ride for free on GO Transit!
Length: 18 KM
Distance from Erindale GO Station: 15 min walk
Walking Trails in Scarborough – Get to Rouge National Urban Park from Rouge Hill GO Train Station
Wanna check out some of the last remaining working farms in the GTA, and see some unreal biodiversity? Rouge National Urban Park is the spot for you! Whether you’re hiking, running, swimming or just good ol’ walking, this trail offers options for everyone.
Length: 62.9 km2 area of trails
Distance from Rouge Hill GO Station: 20 min walk
Top Walking Trail in Hamilton – Get to Chedoke Radial Trail from Hamilton GO Centre Station
Located in the west end of Hamilton and the Dundas Valley, The Chedoke Radial Trail is a popular trail for both it’s incredible beauty (hello waterfalls!) and for boasting several fitness installations along the trail that suit cyclists, hikers, runners and basically anyone!
Length: 12 KM
Distance from Hamilton GO Centre:
- Drive: 9 min
- Bus: 27 min
Amazing Hiking in Guelph – Get to Rockwood Conservation Area by GO Bus
With towering limestone cliffs, caves and glacial potholes (including one of the world’s largest), it’s hard not to love the Rockwood Conservation Area. Hitting this trail up in the summer will give you the opportunity to canoe, fish and even go mini golfing. Plus, there are two GO Bus routes that make it easy to get to the Rockwood Conservation area.
Length: 2.9 KM
Distance from GO Bus routes 31 (Kitchener) and 33 (Guelph/North York): 2 min walk
Stunning Hiking Trails in Niagara – Get to Niagara Glen Park from Niagara Falls GO Station
Of course, we saved one of the best for last! With rugged paths that overlook the rapid Niagara River and form a whirlpool, we can confidently say the Niagara Glen is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Ontario. Feel like an even bigger challenge? Give bouldering the rocks a try! With the GO train service to Niagara Falls back on track, now’s the time to hop on the train from Union Station to Niagara Falls on weekends and holidays!
Length: 4 KM
Distance from Niagara Falls GO Station:
- Walk: 8 min to White Water Walk
- Drive: 6 min to Nature Centre
- Bus: 9 min to Nature Centre
There you have it! 5 of the best hiking trails in Ontario that are easily accessible by GO Transit. Before you head out, make sure to plan your trip and check your schedule ahead of time (GO Transit’s schedules continue to change to better serve us). Other things to keep in mind?
- Kids 12 and under always ride for free on GO trains and buses and students & seniors are eligible for discounts with PRESTO.
- All GO trains and buses are equipped with GO Wi-Fi Plus; free wi-fi and entertainment portal filled with TV shows, music, courses and more.
- If you plan to regularly take your bike to a GO Station, check out GO Transit’s reserved bicycle parking and bike coach opportunities.
Let us know which one you’re hitting up first, Toronto!
