Summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to bust out those hiking shoes and explore the outdoors. Sunshine, fresh air, beautiful views — these easy hikes near Toronto have it all. And don’t sweat it if you’re a beginner because these trails are suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Here are the best easy hikes near Toronto that are totally worth crossing off your bucket list this summer.
Rattlesnake Point
Arguably one of the prettiest places to spend a day in nature near Toronto, Crawford Lake Conservation Area in Milton has it all.
Whether you’d prefer a relaxing and easy stroll around the lake or a more adventurous trek up to the Buffalo Crag Lookout Point, you won’t be disappointed.
There’s no sight quite as beautiful as the towering thousand-year-old cedars you’ll pass as you make your way up the escarpment.
Where: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton
Distance: 14.4 km
Bond Lake Loop
Around twenty minutes north of Toronto, you’ll find this pristine blue lake and easy hiking trail that feels like a trip to cottage country.
Bond Lake is part of the Oak Ridges Corridor Conservation Reserve in Richmond Hill, which is dominated by mature forests, wetlands, meadows, kettle lakes, and a network of recreational trails.
Where: 12691 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill
Distance: 2.7 km
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
This is one of the most popular hiking spots around, and for good reason.
The clifftop trail is both unique and gorgeous, and there are seven moderately challenging hikes to do in the park that range in length.
Summer is a beautiful time to visit the park, but on a weekend with great weather, you should reserve your spot in advance as it does tend to get busy.
Where: 795086 3rd Line EHS, Shelburne
Distance: 5 km
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Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
This hike is all about views and it boasts some of the best in the region.
Soak up your stunning surroundings of the Niagara Escarpment and shimmering Lake Ontario as you travel along the forested trails and along the upper and lower falls.
There’s no shortage of viewing platforms to stop and admire the views and take photos to your heart’s content.
Where: 28 Quarry Rd, Grimsby
Distance: 4.1 km
Rouge Valley Conservation Centre
You can immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city at the gorgeous Rouge Valley.
There are multiple hiking trails to take that range in length and difficulty — you can get all the details here.
From marshes and meadows to boardwalks and an old mill used by early European settlers, you’ll have plenty to see on this summer hike.
Where: 1749 Meadowvale Rd, Scarborough
Distance: 10.7 km
Hilton Falls Conservation Area
There are three different trails you can take to enjoy this gorgeous spot just off Highway 401 in Milton.
Meander along the nature paths and enjoy the breathtaking views of the falls, the shimmering blue reservoir, and the Old Mill ruins.
Be sure to book your spot ahead of time as reservations are now required to enter.
Where: Off Campbellville Rd in Milton
Distance: 4 km
Mount Nemo Conservation Area
Boasting “one of the best cliff ecosystems on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment,” Mount Nemo is an accessible cliff-edge trail that’ll spoil you with views without making you work too hard for it.
This peaceful hike is filled with thousand-year-old crevice caves, ancient cedars, and limestone boulders covered in green ferns.
Nature trails like these really make you appreciate the beauty that Ontario has to offer.
Where: 5317 Guelph Line, Burlington
Distance: 5.3 km
Hermitage Trail
Located in the charming town of Ancaster, you’ll find this beautiful and quiet scenic hike with a little piece of history hidden inside of it.
Hermitage Trail is home to the ruins of a magnificent stone mansion that was built in 1855.
Not far from this trail are the cascading Tiffany Falls, as well as the waterfalls at Spencer Gorge Conservation Area.
Where: Sulphur Springs Road, Ancaster
Distance: 3.8 km
Enjoy these gorgeous hikes near Toronto and have yourself a wonderful summer!
