9 Gorgeous Ontario Boardwalks That Will Almost Make You Want To Take Up Running
Listen, we have as much disdain for working out as the next person. And even if we buy our yoga pants with the best intentions, more often than not those pants are for lounging and lounging only. However, just one look at these gorgeous Ontario boardwalk trails and you’ll almost want to start running... almost.
Boardwalks offer a flat and easy to navigate surface that’s perfect for anyone who hates hiking.
And whether you want to walk on water or wander through whimsical wetlands, these Ontario trails have you covered.
From hidden gems right here in Toronto to beautiful bogs in Ottawa, there’s no shortage of places for you to explore.
The best part? Most of these trails are just one or two kilometres long, so you can keep your trip short and sweet if you want to.
So if you’ve been thinking about taking up running, now might be the time to finally bust out that loungewear — a.k.a yoga gear — and hit the trails.
With views as good as these, maybe it won’t be so bad after all.
Glen Stewart Ravine
Price: Free
Address: 351 Glen Manor Dr., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This winding, multi-level boardwalk is a true hidden oasis that you won't believe is in Toronto.
Mer Bleue Bog
Price: Free
Address: Ridge Rd., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This stunning 1.2 km. boardwalk will take you through magical wetlands and the second-largest bog in southern Ontario.
Spruce Bog Trail
Price: $2 to $12.25
Address: Hwy. 60, Unorganized South Nipissing District, ON
Why You Need To Go: This 1.5 km. trail is easily accessible from the highway and offers breathtaking forest views. Which is all the more reason to finally go for that run... eventually.
Point Pelee Marsh Boardwalk
Price: $7.90
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you've always wanted to run on water, then this beautiful floating boardwalk is your ticket. And remember to keep your eyes open for painted turtles along the way.
Cyprus Lake Trail
Price: $7.90
Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Rd., Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can soak up lake views on this 5 km. trail that has stunning boardwalk sections for you to run on. Or, you know, casually stroll.
Crawford Lake Boardwalk
Price: $6.50
Address: 3115 Conservation Rd., Milton, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can relax by the peaceful lake on this short and sweet trail. Other trails throughout the park feature giant wooden sculptures and scenic lookout points as well.
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Mel Swart Lake Gibson Conservation Area
Price: Free
Address: Thorold, ON
Why You Need To Go: This little boardwalk gem is one of the most picturesque spots to watch the sunset in Ontario.
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Hunters Bay Trail
Price: Free
Address: Huntsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can wander under railway tracks and over the water on this 4.6 km. trail
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Presqu'ile Marsh Boardwalk
Price: $2 to $12.25
Address: 328 Presqu'Ile Pkwy., Brighton, ON
Why You Need To Go: If we absolutely must go for a run, there a few prettier places than this to do it. You can enjoy whimsical marshlands and a canopy of trees on this boardwalk.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.