As a local Torontonian, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the great outdoors in and around the city. While many visitors are drawn to the iconic CN Tower, there’s so much more to discover beyond the downtown core. Over the years, I’ve taken my dogs on countless adventures, seeking refuge from the concrete jungle and discovering hidden gems that showcase Toronto’s natural beauty. From hiking the scenic Scarborough Bluffs to gliding across frozen forest rinks in winter, or plucking crisp apples from local orchards each fall – there’s no shortage of exciting experiences waiting to be had.
Hike the Scarborough Bluffs
Just 20 minutes from Downtown Toronto, the Scarborough Bluffs offer a serene escape from the city bustle. With ample parking and easy accessibility by bus or car, visitors can opt for a leisurely cycle ride as well. For the most memorable experience, arrive just as dawn breaks and take advantage of the early morning hours to explore the area. Begin with the gentle Bluffer’s Park Trail that leads to the Scarborough Bluffs Lookout, where you can bask in the tranquility of watching the sunrise over the white sandstone cliffs and Lake Ontario. The peaceful atmosphere is unmatched compared to other spots near Downtown Toronto. As a bonus, the lookout offers excellent photography opportunities. For a more elevated view, venture onto the Cathedral Park Trail or Scarborough Crescent Park Trail, both of which provide panoramic views of the lake. Be sure to bring your pup along, as these trails are dog-friendly. However, please note that the steep inclines may not be suitable for cyclists, unless you’re an experienced mountain biker. During the summer months, the area transforms into a popular spot for stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking, allowing you to explore the still bay at your leisure.
Go Tubing at the Elora Gorge
The charming town of Elora is famously associated with two iconic attractions: its historic mill and the breathtaking Elora Gorge. The scenic drive from Toronto takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes along picturesque highways, offering a serene escape from city life. As you make your way to the gorge, be sure to fill up on gas beforehand, as there can be lengthy stretches between service stations.
Once you arrive, you can immerse yourself in nature by hiking the Elora Gorge Trail or indulge in a thrilling experience – tubing! To take part in this exhilarating activity, simply rent an inner tube from the Elora Gorge Tubing company, which requires pre-booking online. As you float down the river, you’ll encounter some minor rapids, but don’t worry – it’s not white water rafting; rather, a gentle, fast-moving current that’s perfect for people of all ages.
As an added bonus, your furry friends can enjoy the spectacle from the riverbank, though they might be puzzled as to why you won’t let them join in on the fun. After your tubing adventure, head over to the Elora Mill for a satisfying lunch, where you’ll find delectable soups and more to refuel after your exciting excursion.
Stand Up Paddleboard at the Toronto Islands
Just 15 minutes away by ferry from Downtown Toronto lies an enchanting world. The Toronto Islands beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore their untamed beauty.
On land, wander along scenic trails and beaches, or take to the water for a unique perspective on Centre Island’s vast marshland. Paddleboarding is an excellent way to experience this tranquil environment, while canoeing and kayaking provide alternative options for those less comfortable on a paddleboard.
Timing is everything when seeking stunning views of the Toronto skyline. Early morning or late evening are ideal times to avoid congestion and capture breathtaking vistas without boat traffic interfering with your photography.
I had the pleasure of sharing this experience with my mom at sunset, watching as the sky transformed into a kaleidoscope of purple hues behind the iconic CN Tower.
Many advocate that the best way to capture the city’s skyline is from the boardwalk or a park. However, I firmly believe that Centre Island on a paddleboard offers an unparalleled perspective.
Nature enthusiasts will delight in spotting various bird species while paddling through the marsh area. This distinct ecosystem, vastly different from its mainland counterpart, presents a unique opportunity for bird watching.
Play Tennis at High Park
High Park offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to different interests. My family would often spend summers here, indulging in swimming at the public pool, exploring the small zoo featuring impressive capybaras, hiking on scenic trails, and attempting tennis (although we weren’t exactly pros!). If you’re an avid tennis player, I recommend taking advantage of their multiple courts located throughout the park. During summer months, these courts tend to fill up quickly, but a sign-up is required to ensure fair playtime for all participants. Time slots are typically limited to 30-60 minutes, allowing everyone to get in on the action.When the weather cools down in spring and fall, finding available court time becomes much easier. After working up an appetite, take a seat on the lush grass nearby and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature’s serenity.In recent years, I’ve started bringing my dog to High Park’s off-leash area during family visits. The park offers both open spaces and fenced-in trails to keep canine companions from roaming off. Just be prepared for parking challenges in summer; if the upper entrance is full, head towards the southern gates, where you’ll typically find free parking spots.
Visit Centre Island Amusement Park
While many are familiar with Canada’s Wonderland, there exists an amusement park even closer to downtown Toronto – Centre Island Amusement Park, affectionately known as Centreville. This classic theme park boasts a fair grounds area, featuring old school rides such as the log flume, which I have always been fond of. The park also includes a petting zoo for visitors of all ages to enjoy. In addition to these attractions, Centre Island Amusement Park offers an aerial view of the park via its Sky Ride, providing a unique and exhilarating experience. While geared more towards younger kids, the park’s laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families or individuals seeking a relaxed day outdoors. I still enjoy visiting Centreville and taking advantage of the rides, including the swan boat – not just a pastime for children! Afterward, I often rent a bike and take a leisurely spin around the island in the afternoon. This park offers an excellent opportunity to escape the city without needing a car, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for Torontonians.
Go Swimming at Woodbine Beach
The Beaches neighbourhood in Toronto is home to some of the city’s most popular beaches, with Woodbine Beach being a personal favourite. I’ve even gone so far as to cycle 20km from Etobicoke just to spend the day soaking up the sun and relaxing on the sand.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early and park in one of the paid lots before they fill up. Once you’re settled, head to Tori’s Bakeshop for a delicious gluten-free or dairy-free treat to fuel your beach day. You can also stop by the nearby grocery store to stock up on any essentials you might need throughout the day.
Summer days at Woodbine Beach are a real treat, with volleyball nets, kayak rentals, and a picturesque boardwalk to stroll along. Just be sure to bring some sun protection, as the beach doesn’t offer much natural shade. When things start to heat up, take a refreshing dip in the lake or pop up an umbrella to create your own shady oasis.
For me, summer in Toronto is all about spending lazy days at Woodbine Beach, feeling the warmth on my skin and the cool water on my toes.
Hunt for Waterfalls at Dundas Peak
Hamilton’s impressive 156-plus waterfalls earn it the title of ‘Waterfall Capital of the World’. To experience this natural wonder at its best, head to Dundas Peak. This trail along the Bruce Trail is an easy hike with a moderate incline that spans 2.9km in and out. The summit offers breathtaking views, including those of Tew’s Falls – the tallest in the region. Locals rave about this trail for its scenic vistas and accessible terrain; you can even forego hiking boots! A shorter, flat trail at the base leads to Webster Falls, which is also dog-friendly (leashes required). Parking at the Tews Fall lot is recommended, as summer tickets need to be prebooked to manage visitor numbers and conserve the area.
Explore the Cheltenham Badlands
In Canada’s vast landscape, Ontario’s Cheltenham Badlands stand out with their rusty red rock formations resembling rolling waves. While Athabasca in Alberta boasts the country’s most famous Badlands, this lesser-known gem is definitely worth a visit.
The unique geological feature is attributed to the exposed Queenston Shale, which was revealed after early settlers’ poor farming techniques eroded the soil. As iron oxidized in the soil, it turned rusty red, creating the striking color seen today.
To preserve this natural wonder, visitors are restricted from hiking directly on the Badlands themselves. Instead, a boardwalk trail is available, offering informative plaques along the way to enhance your understanding of these geological features.
For those seeking a hike with their visit, consider pairing it with a nearby section of the Bruce Trail that connects to the Cheltenham Badlands trail and parking lot. The approximately 3km out-and-back route is suitable for those with sturdy shoes, as recent rainfall can make the terrain quite muddy.
Skate on an Outdoor Ice Rink
In Toronto, the crown jewel of outdoor ice rinks is undoubtedly Nathan Phillips Square’s winter transformation. Every year, the city converts one of its downtown plazas into a massive skating rink, complete with skate rentals, hot chocolate to warm you up, and even Beaver Tails for a sweet treat.Just steps away from the Distillery Christmas market, this rink offers a fantastic wintery day out. If you prefer a more relaxed outdoor skating experience, however, there are several scenic trails scattered throughout the city that offer a unique and peaceful glide.One of my personal favorites is the Colonel Samuel Smith Park trail, which features a figure-eight design. As a former student of the nearby school, I have fond memories of hitting the rink after classes with friends.Other popular options include College Park and Evergreen Brick Works trails. While these paths may not be as polished as traditional rinks, they offer a unique adventure with stunning city views. Just remember to keep an eye out for bumps and rough patches in the ice – it’s all part of the fun!
Watch the Sunset on the Toronto Boardwalk
Toronto’s sunsets over Lake Ontario are truly breathtaking. For a panoramic view, stroll along the Toronto Boardwalk, where benches and Muskoka chairs provide cozy spots to rest and take in the vibrant hues of the sky. Alternatively, rent a bike or rollerblade for a unique perspective on this natural wonder.
As you walk along the Humber Bridge with a warm cup of tea, the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds and oranges. If you prefer to stay awhile, don’t forget your flashlight as the area can be quite dark at night.
For an unparalleled view, consider a sunset sailing tour of Toronto’s harbour. As you venture further out onto the water, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the city skyline against the stunning backdrop of the setting sun. Many tours offer drinks or dinner, making it easy to turn this into a full evening event.
Cycle at Rouge National Urban Park
Toronto’s Rouge National Park is a hidden gem that boasts an impressive 1,100 hectares of green space – significantly larger than New York City’s Central Park. I’m ashamed to admit it took me years to discover this treasure trove, where my friends and I would often cycle together for free. This national park was designed specifically for urban dwellers to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. One of its most unique features is the designated campground, offering tent and RV sites for those looking to connect with nature. But what I love most about Rouge is the extensive paved cycling trails – a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts! You can ride along the Toronto Zoo, take a peek at Hudson the polar bear if you’re so inclined, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings and spot some deer or beavers as you go. This natural oasis makes it an ideal stopover on any Canadian road trip.
Go Apple Picking at Chudleighs
As a child, I treasured our annual September trips to Chudleighs, hands-down the most fantastic spot for apple picking near Toronto. The experience is made even more enjoyable by the opportunity to take tractor rides through the orchard to find your preferred variety. I’ve always had a soft spot for Royal Galas, so we’d often head in that direction. What’s more, furry friends are welcome to join the fun! The real highlight of Chudleighs, however, lies in its ability to provide a bounty of apples for the remainder of autumn. After you’ve picked your fill, be sure to pay a visit to the petting zoo and say hello to Mac and Tosh, two friendly labradors who mingle with the goats.Beyond the orchard, there’s plenty more to keep you and your little ones entertained. A massive hay maze awaits, as well as a children’s playground featuring an enormous slide. For added fun, be sure to stop by the candy shop.Don’t forget to round out the experience with a sausage and a cob of corn – perfect for enjoying on the fields. We’d often take advantage of their paint brush contraption to add buttery flair to our charcoal-grilled corn, which remains one of my fondest childhood memories to this day.Alternatively, if you’d rather leave the picking to someone else, Chudleighs offers both fresh-picked apples and stunning apple blossoms for sale in its shop.
Canoe or Kayak on the Humber River
The Humber River’s northern course flows from Lake Ontario to Vaughan, with the most popular stretch running from Old Mill to its confluence with the lake. Here, visitors and locals alike enjoy canoeing and kayaking amidst the tranquil waters.
Feel free to launch your own kayak or rent one from Toronto Adventures for an up-close encounter with the river’s unique wildlife, including beavers and herons. The calm currents make it an ideal spot for paddling, and you might even catch a glimpse of fisherman attempting to reel in their catch.
Fall is a particularly exciting time to visit the Humber River, as salmon season brings schools of fish jumping upstream at the northern waterfalls near Dundas Street. It’s a sight that never fails to impress, and one I cherish as a dog lover, as I walk my family pets along the riverbank, trying to spot these acrobatic displays.
For those with four-legged friends like myself, this stretch of the Humber River is also a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy quality time with your furry companion.
Play Volleyball at Trinity Bellwoods Park
Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods Park is a vibrant green oasis in the heart of downtown. Spanning the largest area among parks in the city, it boasts a bustling farmer’s market at its northern edge, an off-leash dog park that provides a fun space for furry friends to run free, and volleyball courts situated on the eastern side. For many locals, this park holds nostalgic value, as it was once a popular destination for impromptu games of beach volleyball among friends. While it may not offer the same sprawling beaches as some of Toronto’s more distant coastal areas, Trinity Bellwoods Park provides a charming alternative for those seeking a sandy court experience without having to venture too far from downtown. Just be sure to bring your own ball along for the fun!
Visit Farm Animals at Riverdale Park
Riverdale Park is a treasure trove of urban exploration, featuring two notable attractions – the Lower Don Trail and Riverdale Farm. As an animal enthusiast, I’m thrilled to discover a working farm nestled in the heart of the city, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The farm boasts a horse paddock, cow pastures, pig pens, goat and sheep enclosures, providing a glimpse into rural Canada’s early days. The scenic area is reminiscent of Black Forest Village, with historic meeting houses, barns, and homes open for visitors to explore and learn about the country’s history. A 3km network of trails crisscrosses the farm, allowing you to meander through paddocks at your leisure. While you can take a more direct route, I recommend embracing the sunshine by following the longer trails. The best part? Riverdale Farm is completely free! Just remember, it’s an operational farm, not a petting zoo, so please refrain from interacting with the animals.
All the Best Outdoorsy Activities Near Toronto
While Toronto is often associated with urban landscapes, it’s surprising to discover that the city offers an abundance of opportunities to connect with nature. A multitude of hiking trails surrounding the metropolis, the picturesque Beaches neighbourhood, and even outdoor skating paths during winter provide ample ways to engage in outdoor pursuits. Trade in museum visits or a trip to the CN Tower for a day and explore some of Toronto’s lesser-known gems that showcase its natural beauty.