by Turo
posted on May 17, 2025
Toronto might be Canada’s largest city, but you don’t need to go far to feel connected to nature. Tucked between the iconic skyline and neighbourhood streets are trails that wind through forests, along riverbanks, and up to dramatic lookouts.
Hiking here gives you a different way to experience the city – one that’s quieter, greener, and full of surprises. So, lace up your boots and take a look at five of the best hikes near Toronto!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Bruce Trail – Rattlesnake Point
- Tew Falls to Dundas Peak Trail – Spencer Gorge
- Charles Sauriol Conservation Area
- Scarborough Bluffs Trail
- Humber River Recreational Trail
- Best hikes in Toronto: FAQs
- Get out and explore the best Toronto hiking trails
What to do in Toronto: must-see trails for hikers
If you’re looking for what to do in Toronto beyond the usual downtown attractions, this is where to start. These must-see trails for hikers offer a fresh look at the city, not from a tower or a patio, but from the edge of a bluff, the bend of a river, or the middle of a quiet forest.
Bruce Trail – Rattlesnake Point
This stretch of the Bruce Trail cuts through one of the most scenic parts of the Niagara Escarpment. Rattlesnake Point gives you everything from high cliff lookouts to peaceful forest paths just a short drive from the city.
- Distance: 7.5 km
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: ~200 m
Why it’s great
Five lookout points give you sweeping views of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario. The trail’s rocky, challenging terrain, ancient cedars, and links to Crawford Lake make it a standout for nature lovers.
Practical tips
Book online to reserve your spot and save a few bucks on entry. It’s not required, but it can make things easier on busy days. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring water – there are no services on the trail.
How to get there
It’s about 60 km west of downtown Toronto along the QEW. With some steep, winding roads near the conservation area, making your Toronto rental car an SUV is a good idea. Look for options from Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, or Subaru for extra traction, space for gear, and legroom on the drive.
Tew Falls to Dundas Peak Trail
This short but scenic trail leads to incredible views over Dundas Valley, plus two impressive waterfalls – Tew Falls and Webster Falls. It’s a go-to for locals and tourists alike who are looking for photo ops of the fall colours around Spencer Gorge Conservation Area.
- Distance: 3.9 km
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: ~150 m
Why it’s great
Dundas Peak is one of the most photographed lookouts in the Toronto area, and for good reason. With cliffs, forest, and waterfalls packed into a short route, it delivers big payoffs without too much effort.
Practical tips
Reservations are no longer required, but spots fill quickly. Wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain, and stick to marked paths near the edges.
How to get there
Drive west from Toronto for about an hour on ON-403. Parking is limited and fills up fast, so smaller vehicles are a smart choice. A compact car rental from Nissan or Toyota will make parking easier and keep the trip smooth on winding roads.
Charles Sauriol Conservation Area Trail
Named after one of Toronto’s leading conservationists, this Don River Valley trail is a calm, scenic route through a surprisingly wild stretch of land. You’ll pass through wooded areas, across bridges, and alongside restored wetlands, all without leaving the city!
- Distance: 6 km
- Duration: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Elevation: ~50 m
Why it’s great
Between the Rainbow Tunnel, Elevated Wetlands, and quiet forest sections, this trail through the Don Valley gives you a lens on the city in a way few other places in Toronto do.
Practical tips
You’ll be on paved trails for much of the way, but side paths can get muddy after rain. Spring and fall are great for spotting salmon or migratory birds, so bring binoculars if you have them.
How to get there
Just 20 minutes from downtown, this trail is one of the best options if you’re flying into the city. Book your Toronto airport car rental with Turo and have it delivered right to the terminal! With plenty of charging stations nearby and no long-distance driving, it’s the perfect Toronto hike for a Tesla rental or another electric vehicle.
Scarborough Bluffs Trail – Bluffer’s Park
This shoreline trail traces the base of the Scarborough Bluffs, a dramatic stretch of white cliffs formed by ancient glaciers. With Lake Ontario on one side and towering bluffs on the other, it feels unlike anywhere else in the GTA and is great for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
- Distance: 6.8 km
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation: ~20 m
Why it’s great
Head to Bluffer’s Park if you’re after coastal views, wildlife sightings, and wide-open space. The water’s clear, the cliffs are stunning, and you can set the pace however you want it to be.
Practical tips
Go on a clear day to get the full effect of the turquoise water. Wear sun protection – there’s not much shade – and stick to marked paths near cliff edges.
How to get there
Bluffer’s Park is just 25 minutes east of downtown Toronto. A minivan is a smart choice for a rental car in Toronto if you want room for the whole family, strollers, and coolers for a picnic. Try something from Honda, Chrysler, or Chevrolet for space, comfort, and easy load-ins.
Humber River Recreational Trail
This west-end trail follows the Humber River through parks, bridges, and quiet stretches of forest. It’s long enough that you can make a day of it, but close enough that you can decide to go last-minute and still have a great time.
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 3–3.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation: ~90 m
Why it’s great
This is a local favourite for weekend strolls. From the old stone bridge near Old Mill Station to the Indigenous murals along the river, the trail feels rooted in Toronto’s past.
Practical tips
Smooth paths make it great for bikes and strollers. It can get busy near James Gardens and Etienne Brulé Park, so head out early for a quieter walk.
How to get there
Just 15 minutes west of downtown, this route is best enjoyed at your own pace. Go with a classic car or sports car that turns the short drive into part of the fun. For comfort and style, check out options from BMW or Porsche.
Best hikes in Toronto: FAQs
Where is Toronto?
Toronto, Ontario, is the largest city in Canada, and located along the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. It’s about 540 km (335 miles) southwest of Ottawa, and roughly 120 km (75 miles) north of the U.S. border at Buffalo, New York.
Most travellers arrive through Toronto Pearson International Airport, which serves direct flights from across Canada, the U.S., and overseas. Booking your airport car rental in Toronto on Turo means you can start your trip right from the terminal and to get moving right away!.
Is Toronto good for hiking?
It’s great if you know where to look! Toronto has more green space than most people realize, with well-maintained trails that follow rivers, cut through ravines, and even skirt the lakefront.
What’s the most scenic hike in Toronto?
The Scarborough Bluffs Trail is hard to beat if you’re looking for the most scenic hike in Toronto. It runs between towering white cliffs and turquoise water, with open lake views that feel miles from the city.
Are there any easy hikes near downtown Toronto?
The Charles Sauriol Conservation Reserve Trail and Humber River Trail both start less than 20 minutes from downtown. They’re mostly flat, well-marked, and packed with natural and historic landmarks.
What’s the best time of year to hike in Toronto?
Fall is probably the best time to hike in Toronto, but trails can be nice all year long. You’ll get cool air, fewer bugs, and gorgeous foliage all around you on your Ontario road trip.
Get out and explore the best Toronto hiking trails
Some of the best activities in Toronto don’t need a ticket – just a good pair of shoes and a bit of time. Toronto’s hiking trails offer locals and tourists fresh air, big views, and a change of pace that’s always close by.
With Turo, you can choose a car that fits your trip, your group, and your gear so you can head out on your schedule and experience the city your way!.
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
