The best way to enjoy the lovely summer heat is by embarking on a scenic outdoor hike. And thankfully for us here in Toronto, there are tons of trails to explore, deep within our beloved parks. We’ve compiled a list of hikes in Toronto that are worth exploring.

It’s time to plan your next adventure and explore the great outdoors with one of these hikes before summer ends – in Toronto, that is.

Here are 13 hikes in Toronto to check out:

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Charles Sauriol Conservation Reserve

You know that rainbow bridge you always pass on the DVP? This is the place where you can visit it in person. 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 to a cycle session.

Where: 1191 Lawrence Ave E

Earl Bales Park

This vast park in North York is the ultimate spot for a leisurely walk. With vast open green space, a network of forested trails, a large pond surrounded by forests, and even a ski hill with a chair lift, there’s lots to enjoy here all year round.

If you want to get away from the crowds, the nearby Burnett Forest has some additional trails to explore that are less heavily trafficked.

Where: 4169 Bathurst St

Edwards Gardens Trail

On top of the beautiful botanical gardens at this North York spot, you’ve also got a hiking trail to explore. Okay, we use the term “hike” loosely here. But the pathway is definitely a great outdoor walk.

This spot is perfect to hit for an easy-breezy outdoor excursion. Plus, if you go far enough it joins up with Sunnybrook Park! Two for one!

Where: 755 Lawrence Ave E

Evergreen Brickworks

Start at the weekend farmer’s market and make your way north at the historic Brickworks for a beautiful outdoor stroll.

This pathway begins with the beautiful onsite pond and ends through trails of forestry. It’s definitely a hike you have to hit at least once in Toronto.

Where: 550 Bayview Ave

High Park Trails

Any local would call High Park the obvious choice for a nature walk in the city, but many locals might not know just how vast the trail network is in this iconic west-end park. There are over 5 km of both paved and dirt paths you can take in any direction throughout the park. Plus, the off-leash trail is an absolute paradise for dogs.

Where: 1873 Bloor St W

Humber River Recreation Trail

Tucked away in the west end is this peaceful nature trail along the Humber River. If you’re looking for a place to get your steps in, this 8.2 km network of trails is definitely the place to go. With lovely views surrounding you on all sides of the long paved pathways, this is the perfect spot to take your dog for a nice long walk or a stroll with a friend.

Where: Check out the map here

Leslie Street Spit

Walk along the water at the Leslie Street Spit this summer. The lakefront trail is perfect for exploring on foot or on bike. Plus, you’ll get a pretty cool angle looking into the city at the gorgeous skyline sights.

Where: 1 Leslie St

Moore Park Ravine Trail Loop

Did you know Toronto’s Midtown is home to a 6.1 km hiking trail? If you love to go on nature walks then you probably did but if you didn’t, make sure to explore this gem. According to AllTrails, it’ll take you about an hour and 23 minutes to complete and it happens to be a popular area for hiking, biking, and such. The trail stretches north as far as Mount Pleasant Cemetary and south as far as Craighleigh Gardens.

Where: 205 Moore Ave

The Beltline Trail

This 9 km trail is so big it’s split into three sections: the York Beltline Trail west of Allen Rd, the Kay Gardner Beltline Park from Allen to Mount Pleasant, and the Ravine Beltline Trail through Moore Park Ravine.

Whew, that’s quite the trek! Check out just one section or challenge yourself to the whole stretch.

Where: Beltline Trail, Toronto

The Don River Valley Park

This all-encompassing park is one of the biggest in the city. This 200-hectare area spans the distance from Pottery Road all the way to the Corktown Common. Along the way, you’ll come across beautiful green spaces, public art, and all-around good vibes. Challenge yourself to the whole thing or take one hiking trail at a time.

Where: Check out the map here

Rouge National Urban Park

You can immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city at the gorgeous Rouge Valley. Canada’s first and only national urban park, according to Destination Ontario, has 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 get a real-life tour of the city’s fascinating history and geography with endless views of stunning valleys.

Where: 1749 Meadowvale Rd

Scarborough Bluffs

You’re not exploring Toronto if you haven’t stopped by the bluffs.

Feast your eyes on this incredible view, which all locals are familiar with but must admit that it never gets old.

The trails and lookout points at the Scarborough Bluffs are located in, well, Scarborough. And it’s super accessible via the TTC.

Where: 1 Brimley Rd S, Bluffers Park, Toronto

West Toronto Railpath

This is definitely the most urban of the trails. You’ll actually know you’re in a city as you trek along this pathway. But who said that was a bad thing, right?

The West Toronto Railpath is loaded with street art that you can admire as you walk along the railway tracks. Plus, there are lots of little coffee shops and restos along the way.

Where: Check out the map here

Soak up the sun at all these gorgeous summer hikes around Toronto. We know we’ll be hitting one or two of them this weekend.

Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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