This hidden Ontario boardwalk between 30-metre cliffs is stunning in the winter

In almost any season, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is one of the best outdoor destinations, considering it’s just a short drive from the city. If you’re up for a scenic walk and looking to get your steps in, this lovely park is home to an amazing boardwalk trail through a canyon.

These jaw-dropping canyons and cliffs are just an hour outside of Toronto. It’s the perfect day trip experience, especially if you’re craving some fresh air.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is a popular destination as it’s open year-round. However, in the winter, it’s a different challenge. Its trails are not maintained or track set, so caution is needed.

Nonetheless, if you’re bundled up and have your boots on, you are set to embark on this adventure.

What is there to do at the park?

The park is home to several trails that range from mere metres to an almost 5 km trek.

Mono Cliffs is located in the town of Mono, right along the Bruce Trail. It’s part of the Niagara Escarpment Parks System and the Escarpment Biosphere Reserve.

It’s one of those parks that doesn’t need much to stand out. But what does stand out is its picturesque canyon.

Canyon views

According to Ontario Parks, you can embark on a lovely short trail that cuts right through a canyon.

Take a stroll down the Spillway Trail, a 1.3km trek that guides you through the canyon, clifftops, and 30-metre rock faces.

But to get there, you’ll need to embark on the Carriage Trail first – equally as long. It then connects to the Spillway Trail.

Since it won’t take you long to complete, you can also explore the other trails at the park.

• Walter Tovell Trail – 4.8 km
• McCarston’s Trail – 3.6 km
• Carriage Trail – 1.3 km
• Spillway Trail – 1.3 km
• Cliff-Top Side Trail – 2.8 km
• South Outlier Trail – 3.5 km
• Lookout Trail – 600 m
• Link Trail – 600 m

Though biking on these trails may be difficult in the winter, you can go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on them instead.

Reservations are required in advance to visit Mono Cliffs, so be sure to secure your daily vehicle permit online before you go.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Where: 795086 3rd Line EHS, Shelburne, Ont.

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