Toronto is the most densely populated city in Canada, so if you live in the city, it can be an amazing treat to venture outside of it with your dog. Although Toronto is a buzzing metropolis, it has a greener side to it too. There are lots of parks and green spaces to enjoy with your pet, many of which are nestled right within the city.
If you’re looking for a quick guide to the best hikes to enjoy with your dog in Toronto, you’ve come to the right place. Take a closer look at our picks of the most peaceful and enjoyable hikes to take with your dog, to give you some serious dog walking motivation.
1. Sherwood Park
Located in Midtown Toronto
This gorgeous little gem is located right in the heart of the city, so it’s easy to get to and won’t be an issue for dogs who don’t like long car journeys. The beautiful green park can be found on Sherwood Street in North York and features free parking and a fenced off dog off-leash area. It’s perfect for dogs who need a little more training before they can be let off the leash in an open space.
At 5km, the walk offers enough exercise to tire your furry friend out, without it being too much effort or time out of your day. There are multiple trails that offer gorgeous boardwalks and different areas to explore, so it’s ideal for a weekend stroll. If you have a little bit of time to relax, there is a wading pool at the site which can be a nice way to cool off your feet after a long walk.
2. Scarborough Bluffs
Located east of Toronto in Scarborough
Scarborough Bluffs, or The Bluffs as it’s more affectionately known, is an escarpment located just east of Toronto’s center in Scarborough. The trail is a healthy 15km long and overlooks the stunning shoreline of Lake Ontario.
The trail gathers tourists from all over the world, and boasts phenomenal views of Toronto’s waters. With nine parks and one water line, the bluffs are spacious and safe for your dog to run around. You’ll love the way the trails hug the waters edge, and takes you past many lighthouses, beaches and little islands whilst you walk your dog.
3. Lion’s Head Loop
Located north west of Toronto, on the Northern Bruce Peninsula
The Lion’s Head Loop is located near the Northern Bruce Peninsula within the Lion’s Head Provincial Park. It’s a forested trail that takes you along the 200ft cliffs that overlook the stunning waters that sit on the North West side of Toronto. You’ll be able to enjoy some incredible wildlife areas on this hike, however this does mean that your dog needs to be kept on a leash to protect the park’s wildlife zones. If you’re a doggy parent with a dog who’s new to walking on the leash, you might want to check out some dog walking tips before you embark on this long hike.
It will take you about 4-5 hours at an average pace, so be sure to pack lots of water and plenty of snacks for the journey. If you only fancy tackling part of the trail, that’s totally acceptable, and with lots of signs and routes that can be followed you can pick the loop up at a point that suits you. There’s a little bit of elevation, which makes this trail a great workout too.
4. Dundas Peak Trail
Located south west of Toronto, near Hamilton
The Dundas Peak Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a slightly shorter route, that offers fantastic views of two twin waterfalls. It’s 4km long and is located near Hamilton just outside the city of Toronto.
It’s a great track for beginners, who want to get into fitness with their dog as it’s short and relatively flat. However, due to the steep ledges on the trail, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
5. High Park Trail
Located west of Toronto
The High Park Trail area is a 4km route that offers a little getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s ideal for dog walkers as it features a 398-acre park with an off-leash dog area.
The Park is located to the west wide of Toronto, and offers plenty of walking trails, lush vegetation and stunning views of the lake that go on for miles. It’s a good trail for all skill levels, as it’s not too intense and is a good route to take on all year round with your dog. With a cafe at its center, tennis courts and a public pool, this trail is perfect for a weekend dog walk.
If you want to take your dog on one of this splendid dog hikes, but just can’t find the time at the moment then why not let one of Rover’s trusted dog walkers take your pet for some much-needed exercise?