10 Stunning Hiking Spots Near Toronto With Gorgeous Trails & Free Admission
There are so many amazing spots to explore!
A person standing on a forested boardwalk trail. Right: A waterfall surrounded by trees.
Toronto is surrounded by beautiful hiking areas and you don't need to spend a ton of money in order to enjoy some time in nature.
If you're dreaming of scenic views and picturesque trails, you may want to head to these parks and conservation areas around the city which offer great hiking opportunities and free admission.
You can wander past cascading waterfalls, historic ruins, panoramic lookouts and more while visiting these places.
While admission is free, some spots have a parking fee, so be sure to plan ahead.
Next time you want to enjoy the outdoors without spending a ton of money, you can head to one of these 10 hiking spots near Toronto with no admission cost.
Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: 28 Quarry Rd., Grimsby, ON
Why You Need To Go: This conservation area is home to "one of Niagara's most breath-taking and panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario."
You can stroll along the Bruce Trail and enjoy the scenery of the 40 Mile Creek Valley, the Lake Ontario shoreline and the escarpment ridge.
The hike features two magical waterfalls and the lookout point is especially beautiful during the fall, when the land below transforms with hues of red and orange.
Rattray Marsh Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: Jack Darling Memorial Park, 1180 Lakeshore Rd. W., Mississauga, ON
Why You Need To Go: This "environmental gem" is situated along Mississauga’s Lake Ontario shoreline and is the "last remaining lakefront marsh of its kind between Toronto and Burlington." It's just a short drive from Toronto, making it an accessible spot for a hike.
You can wander along a winding boardwalk and take in the views of the natural wetland. The conservation area is home to a rare shale beach as well as wildlife including herons, rabbits, beavers, deer, foxes and more.
Tiffany Falls Conservation Area
Price: Free admission, $11 parking fee
Address: 900 Wilson St. E., Hamilton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Featuring two waterfalls, this conservation area near Toronto is a magical place for a hike. You'll travel along forested trails to the 21-metre-tall Tiffany Falls which tumbles over a cliff.
You can take in the scenery from the lookout platform at the base of the falls.
The area is particularly beautiful during the spring melt and in the winter when Tiffany Falls transforms into a frozen natural wonder.
Claireville Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: 8180 Hwy. 50, Brampton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This "urban oasis" features 540 hectares of beautiful trails and forested areas just outside of Toronto and is an easy spot for a day trip.
You can take a relaxing stroll along wetlands, valleys, forests and more for a dreamy nature adventure.
From hiking to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, cycling and canoeing, there's loads to enjoy at this conservation area.
The area is also home to Claireville Ranch, which offers horseback riding along the forested trails.
Limehouse Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: 12169 Fifth Line, Limehouse, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located along the Bruce Trail, this conservation area is full of unique trails to explore.
You can venture to the "Hole in the Wall" where you'll discover a ladder that leads to crevices in the escarpment rock. You can also find giant lime kilns, remains of an old mill and an old powerhouse that will transport you back in time.
There are several hiking trails that range from easy to difficult so you can choose which one is best suited for you.
Devil's Punchbowl Conservation Area
Price: Free admission, $8 parking fee
Address: Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can discover two waterfalls at this conservation area near Toronto; Upper and Lower Punchbowl Falls.
The Devil’s Punchbowl is "one of the Niagara Escarpment's most amazing sights" and was formed at the end of the last ice age.
The escarpment rock is made up over several colourful layers including shades of red, blue and green.
From the falls, you can access the 11.5-kilometre Dofasco 2000 Trail which features sections of boardwalk and beautiful nature views.
The cascades are located right beside the parking lot so you don't have to go too far to find them.
Silver Creek Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: Fallbrook Trail &, Side Rd. 27, Halton Hills, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated along the Bruce Trail, this 1,086-acre park "will give you a taste of wilderness close to the city."
You'll travel past flowing brooks, dreamy forests and scenic nature views.
The hiking trails include sections of boardwalk and you'll discover tiny waterfalls and a charming historic archway as you wander along the paths. Some trails can be difficult, so be sure to wear proper footwear.
Thornton Bales Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: 1260 19th Sideroad, King City, ON
Why You Need To Go: Known for its "steep slopes and rugged beauty," this conservation area is a beautiful spot to spend a day.
One of the most unique features of the area are The 99 Steps that lead through a forested area to the top of the ridge, where you can take in some panoramic views. It's especially magical during the fall when vibrant leaves blanket the ground and steps.
Rouge National Urban Park
Price: Free admission
Address: 25 Zoo Rd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This park is "one of the largest urban parks in North America" and is located within the Greater Toronto Area, making it a great spot for a hike.
There are many trails to explore, including the Orchard Trail, which leads past remnant orchards, residences and an old mill as well as the Vista Trail, which takes you to a two-level lookout platform that's "one of the best places to view Toronto’s autumn colours and spectacular valley views."
Most trails are easy to explore so you can have a relaxing stroll through nature.
Upper Credit Conservation Area
Price: Free admission
Address: 20073 Porterfield Rd., Alton, ON
Why You Need To Go: With numerous trails and 400 acres of scenic landscapes, this conservation area is worth a road trip.
You can explore a "fragrant cedar forest," rolling hills, wetlands, meadows and more while visiting this spot.
Start your cars and enjoy these beautiful hiking spots near Toronto without paying an admission fee.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.