5 Summer Hikes Not to be Missed in Southern Ontario
By ‘Live the Adventure’ Club Ambassador Stephanie Huff
When the weather finally climbs to warmer temperatures, you may be feeling the itch to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. Lucky for you, southern Ontario is an outdoor wonderland, filled with natural gems. With dense wooded trails and no shortage of waterfalls, these five hikes should be on your bucket list this summer.
White Trail
Komoka
White Trail is a popular 7.9-kilometer dog-friendly hike within Komoka Provincial Park, suitable for all skill levels. Although this loop is well-visited during the summer months, there are a few marked options to divert from the main path to enjoy mother nature in solitude.
The trail cuts through a wooded area, providing ample shade during the heat of summer, eventually leading to a small waterfall. Living up to its name, occasionally White Trail opens up into gorgeous fields of white wildflowers.
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Elora Gorge Trail
Elora
As its name suggests, the Elora Gorge Trail offers grand views of the conservation area’s prolific gorge. The 7.2-kilometer trail is surrounded by cedar trees, some of which cling to the cliffs edges. The real reward of this hike is the 20-metre limestone waterfall fed by the Grand River.
If this hasn’t already convinced you to plan your visit to Elora this summer, then the area’s unique quarry will! Take a dip to cool off, or simply relax by the water after your hike.
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Tiffany Falls Trail
Hamilton
Hidden within urban Hamilton, the wooded trail to Tiffany Falls is a short dirt path from the parking lot. With an upper viewing deck and stairs leading down to the falls, you can get as close to the cascading water as you dare. This popular trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, so the earlier you visit the falls, the more private your experience will be.
For those wanting a longer hike or who are eager to chase more waterfalls, continue onto the Bruce trail head across from the Tiffany falls parking lot. This hour-long extension offers views of Sherman falls and Canterbury falls.
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Medway Valley Heritage Forest
London
Find out why London is affectionately called ‘The Forest City’ with this 7.7-kilometer, dog-friendly trail. The Medway Valley Heritage Forest is a protected area located in north London, yet while navigating this quiet loop you will completely forget you’re in the city.
Running parallel to the Thames River, the scenic hike includes 25-meter riverbanks, creeks with over 20 fish species and flocks of birds, appealing to explorers keen to watch wildlife. The trail has both paved and maintained dirt sections, offering options for all ages and mobility levels.
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Burnt Point Loop Side Trail
Tobermory
The Burnt Point Loop Side Trail is an absolute must for nature and photography lovers visiting southern Ontario. At the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, this 4.8-kilometer wooded path is relatively quiet compared to more iconic attractions in the Bruce Peninsula National Park.
This trail eventually opens up into a picturesque, rocky cove along the Georgian Bay. Be sure to pack your camera and a lunch to best enjoy this view before continuing on to hike the other side of the loop.
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Have you hiked these trails in southern Ontario?
Which was your favourite?
Comment below!
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