If you live in Toronto, you have a hidden, gorgeous wonderland right in your own backyard: Rouge Valley National Urban Park, which abuts the Toronto Zoo. Parks Canada describes it as: “…hiking trails travel through a variety of landscapes, including meadows, forests, wetlands, and farmland. Enjoy views of the Rouge and Little Rouge rivers, wander through mature forests, stroll past active farm fields and explore the rich history of the area.” Their website details all the trails.
I’d only hit the marsh trail in the winter or a really dry summer day, as it can get swampy as it is wetland; however, it leads you along the river and up some cool cliff sides.
The Mast Trail takes you through rare Carolinian ecosystems and meanders along a 200-year-old former logging route. I like jumping from this to the Vista Trail which has a two-storey viewing platform which is great for enjoying the autumnal foliage.
People have gathered branches and made some cool forts within the woods, which are really fun for kids of any age…
Poles and hiking boots are needed as its pretty hilly (especially on the outer edges where you get some steep elevation), plus water and a snack/lunch are recommended. Check for ticks on yourself and dogs afterwards.
DISTANCE: 12.4km (which included a bit of off-trail adventure…)
TIME: 3 hrs
ELEVATION: 145m
DIFFICULTY: Medium
PARKING: Lots of options, but the Rouge Valley Conservation Centre Ontario (if full, park across on Zoo Road) 1749 Meadowvale RoadToronto, Ontario is easy.
TREDSUP 