From beginner loops to epic treks, this spring explore thousands of kilometres of trails set against the stunning backdrop of cottage country’s iconic landscapes.

Looking to stretch the legs and breathe in fresh country air after a (seriously) long Canadian winter? Starting just two hours north of Toronto you’ll encounter hiking trails to suit every adventurer, whether you’re a seasoned backcountry explorer or new to the wilderness. Here are the top trails in each region to get you started.

Algonquin Park

Canada’s oldest provincial park has been welcoming day trippers and overnight campers for over 100 years, and it’s no secret why visitors return again and again; in a word, this place is breathtaking. And hikers are not the only species you’re likely to encounter in spring; keep an eye out for moose coming to the side of Highway 60 (which traverses the park) to lick salt as you head towards your trail.

Algonquin Logging Museum Trail located at km 54.5 from the West Gate
Barron Canyon Trail at km 29.0
Beaver Pond Trail at km 45.2
Booth’s Rock Trail at km 40.3
Lookout Trail at km 39.7

Almaguin Highlands

Located directly north of the more widely-known region of Muskoka, the beautiful Almaguin Highlands of Ontario offer an opportunity to explore a more tranquil side of cottage country, and to enter Algonquin Park from the west side on paths less-travelled. A region composed of multiple charming villages, a hiker will enjoy an excursion here that evokes a desire to come back again soon.

Beaver Meadow Trail Mikisew Provincial Park
Heritage River Walk Burk’s Falls
Moose Mountain Trail South River
Old Bethune Trail Kearney
Seguin Trail Park to Park Trail Emsdale

Loring-Restoule

Located in what is known as “The Golden Valley” of Ontario, Port Loring–Restoule is a bit of paradise that’s waiting to be discovered by avid hikers. Instead of heading to familiar spots to get your outdoor fix, consider going a bit “off the grid, as Nature intended”, and discover a new favourite trail in the province.

Angels Point Trail Restoule Provincial Park
Fire Tower Trail Restoule Provincial Park
Loring Deer Yard Trail Port Loring
Rangers Point Trail Restoule Provincial Park
The River Trail Restoule Provincial Park

Muskoka

Turns out Muskoka is not only famous for lazing on a dock in summer. In all four seasons, this popular vacation destination boasts great trails to explore, whether off the beaten path or closer to towns as well. Take advantage of these trails if you are looking for something a little less intense.

Bracebridge Resource Management Centre Trails Bracebridge
Hardy Lake Provincial Park Torrance
Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail Bracebridge
Hunters Bay Trail Huntsville
Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve Huntsville
Stubb’s Falls Trail Arrowhead Provincial Park
Wilson’s Falls Trail Bracebridge

Parry Sound: The Bay & Beyond

West Parry Sound district is home to many municipalities and provincial parks, and plenty of spots to explore the rugged terrain of the shores of incredible Georgian Bay – the world’s largest freshwater archipelago – and inland wonders too.

Beaver Dams Trail Grundy Lake Provincial Park
Lookout Point Trail Killbear Provincial Park
North Shore Rugged Hiking Trail Parry Sound
Rose Point Trail Seguin
Whitestone Lake Recreational Trail Dunchurch

South Algonquin

Take a trip to the southeast side of Algonquin Park to explore the welcoming villages of South Algonquin. Check out the trails in Whitney and Madawaska this spring.

Bear Lake Trail Madawaska
Bear Mountain Trail Madawaska
Kluke Lookout Loop Madawaska
Old Railway Trail Whitney
Spectacle Lake/Burnetts Mountain Trail Madawaska

Town Centre Trails

If leisurely strolls are more your style, consider these picturesque walks through some of the region’s historic towns.

Bracebridge Heritage Walking Trail Bracebridge
Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery Huntsville
Heritage River Walk Burk’s Falls
Muskoka Wharf Gravenhurst
Rotary and Algonquin Regiment Waterfront Fitness Trail Parry Sound
Tower Hill Lookout & Heritage Garden Parry Sound

Additional

Looking for something completely different? Check out these unique spots:

Dyer Memorial Nature Reserve Huntsville
Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery Bala
Screaming Heads Burk’s Falls

To plan your stay in the great Canadian wilderness just north of Toronto this spring, click here.