Categories: Travel

Step into Spring! 10 scenic hikes near Toronto for every explorer

Spring is here and that means it’s time to explore the outdoors, one hike at a time. Of course it’s more ideal to be one with nature when the weather is nice, hikes are perfect in any weather – rain or shine. We’ve compiled a list of easy hikes in and near Toronto that are worth exploring. And if you’re a beginner, don’t worry about it! These trails are suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Now check out our list and hit the outdoors!

Recent Posts:
Cherry blossom watch: Toronto can expect full blooms before May
The best bars to watch a Toronto Maple Leafs playoff game

Hermitage Trail

Right in the beautiful town of Ancaster, you’ll find this calm and quiet scenic hike.

Hermitage Trail is home to the ruins of a magnificent stone mansion that was built in 1855, according to Tourism Hamilton.

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

Hilton Falls Conservation Area

Enjoy the three different trails at the Hilton Falls Conservation Area.

Take some time to enjoy the views of the falls, the Old Mill ruins and its stunning blue reservoir.

Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time as entry fees are required.

Where: Off Campbellville Rd in Milton
Distance: 4 km

Waterside Trail to Bluffer’s Park

The Bluffs are a stunning sight to see no matter what time of year it is, but in the spring, it’s a must-visit. The waterside trail is great for stretching your legs. Plus, the views up top are unbeatable.

Where: 1 Brimley Rd S
Distance: 2.6 km

Crothers Woods

Within the Don River Valley, you’ll find Crothers Woods. This is considered an extensive forest habitat with about 10 kilometres of natural surface trails. It’s perfect for hiking and biking.

If you’re looking for a fun spring time adventure, you’ve found it.

Where: Crothers Woods Trail, 27 Redway Rd
Distance: About 10 km of trails

Rattlesnake Point

Are you up for an 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

Kay Gardner Beltline Trail

Now here’s an adventure! Kay Gardner Beltline Trail follows an old railway line from Allen Road south of Elm Ridge Drive west to Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

The park features 32 bike trails and water fountains making it a lovely spot to see some hidden green spaces right here in the city.

Where: Kay Gardner Beltline Park, 378 Mount Pleasant Rd
Distance: 8.9 km

Rouge Valley Conservation Centre

You don’t have to leave the city to enjoy the beauty and wonders of the valley.

And lucky for us, there are multiple hiking trails 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

Charles Sauriol Conservation Reserve

You know that rainbow bridge you always pass on the DVP? Well, you’re about to pay it a visit.

The trail is short and easy, but great if you’re just looking for a quick breath of fresh air. We recommend bringing a bike and upgrading your hike.

Where: 1191 Lawrence Ave E
Distance: 3.9 km

Bond Lake Loop

Around 20 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

Milkman’s Lane

This 300 metre-long trail in Rosedale enters the Don Valley from South Drive near Craigleigh Gardens Park, used by hikers, dog walkers, cyclists and joggers.

Where: Milkman’s Lane, 200 Pk Reservation Trl Dr
Distance: 300 metres