Ontario is Canada's most populous province, home to the nation's capital Ottawa and its largest city Toronto. The province stretches from the Great Lakes in the south to Hudson Bay in the north, offering world-class urban experiences, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Indigenous and colonial heritage.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Bruce Trail
Canada's oldest and longest marked footpath, following the Niagara Escarpment (UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve) from Niagara to Tobermory. Most hikers tackle sections rather than the full route. 400+ km of side trails.
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2
La Cloche Silhouette Trail
Considered one of Canada's finest backcountry routes, traversing the white quartzite La Cloche Mountains with stunning views of turquoise lakes. A 7–9 day loop typically done as a backpacking expedition.
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3
Algonquin Park Interior Canoe Route / Portage Trails
Algonquin offers both day hiking on the Highway 60 corridor trails and extensive backcountry canoe-portage routes. The Western Uplands Trail is a premier backpacking circuit.
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4
Niagara Gorge Trail System
Dramatic trail along the Niagara Gorge walls below Niagara Falls, featuring up-close views of the gorge, whirlpool, and powerful river. A hidden gem most tourists miss.
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5
Bruce Peninsula National Park Trails
Network of trails on the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula featuring the famous Grotto sea cave, Georgian Bay shoreline cliffs, and the South Bruce Peninsula wilderness.
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6
Dundas Valley Conservation Area Trails
35+ km of trails in the Dundas Valley through lush forests, meadows, and the Niagara Escarpment. Excellent all-season hiking just outside Hamilton and 1 hour from Toronto.
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7
Bon Echo Provincial Park Trails
Trails surrounding Mazinaw Lake and the spectacular 100-metre Mazinaw Rock cliff face covered in ancient Indigenous pictographs. Unique combination of Indigenous cultural heritage and natural beauty.
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8
Elora Gorge Rim Trail
Gentle trail along the rim of the dramatic Elora Gorge, with views down 25 metres to the Grand River below. Can be combined with swimming, tubing, and exploration of Elora village.
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9
Humber Valley Trail (Toronto)
Urban trail through the Humber River valley, connecting Lake Ontario to the Toronto Greenbelt. Beautiful ravine scenery, heritage sites, and wildlife (herons, salmon in fall) within Toronto.
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10
Georgian Bay Islands National Park Trails
Trails on Beausoleil Island in Georgian Bay, accessible only by boat or ferry. Stunning pink granite Canadian Shield scenery, crystal Georgian Bay water, and rare reptiles and plants.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.