Want to have outdoor fun this summer? Ontario is one of the best places in Canada for that. Especially if you love hiking.
There is something magical about walking through trees and feeling the fresh breeze on your face. And Ontario has it all. Short and easy trails, rocky adventures—and waterfalls, and even beaches. The best part? You don’t have to go far to find it.
Let us now talk about some of the most beautiful trails you can explore. And how your trip can become even better with a self-guided tour—we will talk about it later.
1. Start with Alagonquin Park: the Classic One
Algonquin Provincial Park is a great start if you are new to hiking. It is among Ontario’s most famous parks. The scenery? Absolutely stunning.
There is a short trail called Lookout Trail—just 2 Km. But it takes you up a small hill where the view is Chef’s kiss. Especially if you go in the fall. The trees turn gold, red, and orange.
A friend of mine did this trail last summer. She said she did not expect much from a short walk. However, she ended up sitting there for an hour watching the clouds move when she got to the top. That is the kind of place Alagonquin is.
2. Looking for a bit More Adventure? Try Bruce Peninsula
Ever heard of Grotto? It is in Bruce Peninsule National Park. The trail is about 5 km round trip, and it takes you to a sea cave with clear and turquoise water. You might even forget you are in Ontario. It simply looks like Greece.
But heads up—this place gets busy in summer. So try the Halfway Log Dump Trail instead if you want fewer people around. The name’s weird, but the trail leads to a rocky beach with crashing waves. It is peaceful. And honestly, kind of epic.
3. Take a Day Trip to Arrowhead
Don’t miss exploring the Arrowhead Provincial Park if you are staying around Muskoka. The Stubb’s Falls Trail is just 2 km and super easy. You will pass through a pretty forest and end up at a small waterfall.
You can sit there with your feet in the water, have a snack, and just relax. Kids love it, too. Oh—and if you are camping—Arrowhead is one of the best.
4. Want a big view: Go to Neys Provincial Park
Not many people know about Pic Island Overlook Trail in Neys Provincial Park. It is a bit of a hidden gem. The hike is about 9 km so it is not for everyone. But the view at the end is unreal if you are up for it.
There is this lookout where you see Lake Superior and a tiny group of islands. An artist from the famous Group of Seven even painted it once.
Another friend, Raj, went there last year and could not stop talking about how peaceful it was. “It felt like the world stood still,” he said. That is the kind of vibe this trail gives.
5. Dare to cross a suspension bridge?
If you are into tougher hikes, check out the White River Suspension Bridge Trail in Puskakwa National Park. It is a full-day adventure—an 18 km round trip. But the highlight is worth it.
There is a bridge swinging high above a gorge with a waterfall underneath. It is a bit nerve-wracking but also very cool. Bring water, good shoes and your brave face. That’s all you need!
6. Explore urban nature at High Park (Yes, in Toronto!)
Not all great hikes are far from the city. Try High Park if you are in Toronto and want a quick nature escape. It has got trails, hills and even a little zoo.
There is a trail around Grenadier Pond that is peaceful, especially early in the morning. Birds chirping, ducks swimming, and people walking their dogs.
It is simple, but sometimes that is all you need.
Hike smart with Canadahustle
Okay, so here is the thing. Planning hikes and finding places can feel like a lot. Especially if you are new to an area. That is where the Canadahustle app comes in.
You can use it to get custom self-guided hiking plans. Just say where you are going—like Ontario—and the app gives you the best trail ideas, including things like:
1. Trail difficulty
2. What to pack
3. Parking tips
4. Best time to visit
And if you are traveling beyond Ontario—British Columbia, Calgary, Montreal, or Toronto—the app helps you with those spots too.
It is like having a local guide in your phone, minus the awkward small talk.
A few tips before you go hiking
Just a few quick things to make your hike even better:
1. Check the weather. It can change fast, especially near lakes. Dress in layers.
2. Bring water and snacks. Even for short hikes. No one likes a hungry hiker.
3. Wear the right shoes. Trails can be rocky and muddy.
4. Stay on path. It keeps you safe and protects nature.
5. Take photos and not flowers. Let the next hiker enjoy the beauty, too.
Oh, and bug spray. Don’t forget the bug spray.
Wrapping it up: You, nature, and magic
Ontario is full of green spaces, peaceful lakes, and trails that lead to places you never expected. Whether you just want a calm walk through the trees or a challenge that makes your legs hurt (in a good way), there is a trail for you.
Use the Canadahustle app to plan it your way. Solo trip? Family adventure? Romantic walk? The app sorts it all out for you. No stress, just the fresh air.
So go on. Pick a trail and pack some snacks. Charge your phone (or don’t). And get ready to feel the kind of calm you only find in nature.
Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Sathi Chakraborty
