Lifestyle

Top Hiking Trails In The West End

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When looking for something to do in the summertime, it’s hard to beat a good hiking trail. Of course, hiking is a fun activity to enjoy all year, but it’s exceptionally beautiful during the warm weather when the leaves are green, and the flowers are blooming. On scorching hot days, the shade from the trees helps to cool you down so you can take in some exercise without overheating. 

It can be challenging to find a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy, but you may be excited to know that Toronto has some of the most beautiful trails and parks in the province. What a great way to explore nature and bond with your family. Best of all, there’s no cost to hit the trails! Where can you go? 

Here are just a few of our favourite trails in the west end: 

West Toronto Railpath

Once an abandoned railway, this multi-use trail is now one of the best-kept secrets in Toronto. Here’s how James Brown, the trail’s architect, describes it: “It’s part path, part garden. The trail is the place, not just a way to get from A to B.” 

The West Toronto Railpath runs from The Junction and connects the west end to downtown Toronto. The wide paths allow plenty of space for cyclists, in-line skaterd, and joggers to enjoy the trail safely. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you explore the beautiful greenery and blossoms throughout. 

If you go, keep your eyes open for the Wallace Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, a beautiful steel structure that passes over the Go Train corridor. 


Looking for other ways to enjoy some fun in the sun this summer? Here are some other ideas to inspire you:


High Park

High Park is widely regarded as one of the most desirable areas in Toronto. Its abundance of green space and beautiful hiking trails are just one of the reasons. 

You’ll discover lush greenery and endless blooms as you stroll along the network of trails. There are even sculptures of animals made from recycled materials scattered throughout the park. 

High Park is dog-friendly and has one of the best leash-free areas in the city. There’s a wheelchair-accessible entrance just off of Colborne Lodge Drive, and the paved and natural surfaces make it an easy hike for people of all ages and ability levels. High Park is open all year long, and activities include cycling, hiking, snowshoeing and jogging.

Etienne Brule

Etienne Brule Park is named after the first European explorer to travel beyond the St. Lawrence River into what we now know as Ontario. In Toronto, the park is home to two gorgeous hiking trails. 

  • The Humber River Loop runs 5.3 km and takes an average hiker a little over an hour to complete. Its paved trails and even terrain make it ideal for beginners. Tall trees provide plenty of shade, which can be a relief on a hot summer afternoon. Picnic tables are available if you want to stop for refreshments. 
  • The Humber River Recreational Trail runs for 8.5 km and is recommended for experienced hikers. Thre paths are available to make the trail as safe as possible for everyone. Cyclists generally choose the paved path. Hikers and joggers often prefer the gravel path. 
  • However, if you really want to get close to nature, you’ll want to explore the footpath right next to the river. 
  • When Autumn comes, you can cheer on the salmon as they journey upstream during mating season.

Both trails are open all year and are a fantastic place for birdwatching. Best of all, Etienne Brule Park offers free parking, which is a very rare find in Toronto. 


Have you ever wondered what neighbourhood in Toronto is right for you? Some of our neighbourhood guides might help:


Humber Marshes

Do you love watching the local wildlife in its natural habitat? If so, you’ll love the Humber Marshes, a rare river mouth marsh in Toronto. It’s a little-known breeding ground for ducks and turtles and has over 60 different fish species. It’s also a beautiful spot to watch out for migratory songbirds and monarch butterflies. 

Hiking isn’t the only activity available. You’ll also find your fellow nature lovers fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

Do you want to know more about the Humber Marshes and Old Mill Walking Path? We have an entire post on this breathtaking trail right here.

Martin Goodman Trail

The Martin Goodman Trail runs 16 km from the Humber Bay Arch Street Bridge to Ashbridges Bay in the east end. It’s considered an easy trail and is wheelchair accessible. For safety, there is a separate path for cyclists and hikers, and the even terrain makes it ideal for people at all levels. The views along the route are breathtaking. You can see the Toronto skyline as you skate, jog or walk along the waterfront. 

The Martin Goodman Trail is one of the most popular trails in the city and it can be busy during the afternoons and on weekends. If you want a quiet, peaceful hike, the best time is in the early mornings. Dogs are welcome as long as they remain on a leash at all times.

Lavender Creek Trail 

If the other hiking areas get too crowded for your liking, consider a trek over to the Lavender Creek Trail. Located just nine minutes away from Bloor West Village, it’s the perfect getaway for when you don’t have hours to spare. 

The paved trail runs from Rockcliffed Blvd to Gunns Road and is easy enough for children. Lavender Creek is quiet and scenic, loaded with mature trees, and the sound of water trickling down the creek naturally melts your stress away. 

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