There isn’t a better way to spend a nice summer day than on an adventurous bike ride. Whether alone or with friends and family, it’s a great way to get out and enjoy the city you live in. Luckily, for those who live in Toronto, there is no shortage of beautiful trails of all types! When people think of bike trails in Toronto, most think about riding on the roads, competing with traffic as part of their daily commute. However, this isn’t always the case! Toronto is filled with easily accessible trails and paths for all skill levels. So, grab your helmet and check the air on your tires because we’ve compiled a list of the top bike trails in Toronto!
1. Toronto Island Trail
If you’re truly trying to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the island is the place to be. This little haven away from the city is one of Toronto’s biggest gems. Accessible by ferry or water taxi, the islands contain a 14.5 km loop trail perfect for a day out biking. It is considered moderate in terms of challenge, with a total length of 2 hours and 36 minutes. On top of this, it’s a perfect area for bird watching and relaxing at the beach, ideal for a break after your ride. This is a bike trail in Toronto you won’t want to miss!
2. Woodbine Beach
If you want to bike by the water without trekking out to the island, Woodbine Beach is a great alternative. This 8.2 km trail takes an average of an hour and a half to complete and is popular for birding, paddle sports, and bikers of all kinds. Summer evenings make for a perfect time to go, especially if you would like to avoid the busy crowds to bike in solitude.
3. Martin Goodman Trail
Known for its iconic Humber Bay Arch bridge, the Martin Goodman trail is a 22km path that spans the entire Toronto waterfront. Though an easy route, this trail takes an average of 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete. This is a very popular area for all types of bikers. From the most skilled cyclists to families with kids enjoying a day in the sun, you’ll get a mix of everyone here. The trail is open year-round and offers beautiful sights of the lake all year round.
4. Don River Trail
Another incredibly scenic trail on our list, the Don Valley trail stems from 9.7 km, running alongside the beautiful river the entire time. Perfect if you want to escape the loud city sounds for a little while. The trail itself is decorated with tons of beautiful art for you to enjoy on your ride. It is also accessible from downtown through its bike lane connections, so no car is required to get to it if you are living in the core! On top of this, the trail connects to a bunch of beautiful parks, such as Bayview Park, Don Valley Brick Works Park, and Riverdale Park. This is one of the many underrated bike trails in Toronto!
5. Wilket Creek Trail
If you particularly love to bike through nature, the Wilket Creek trail is another viable option. This 3.7 km trail is short and sweet, clocking in at just about 45 minutes. Enjoy the moist marshes and a creek that flows throughout the trail, as well as the beautiful birds that have made a home in the ravine during their seasonal migrations. This bike trail is not kept during the winter seasons, so make sure you go during the warmer weather.
6. Toronto Harbour Lighthouse Trail
A connection from the Martin Goodman trail mentioned above, this 17.2 km trail takes an average of three and a half hours to complete. As mentioned in the name, the trail consists of a beautiful ride through the iconic Toronto waterfront. There, you’ll find many people relaxing and enjoying the warm weather with their family and friends. End off your bike ride with a stunning view of the Toronto Harbour lighthouse, which dates back to 1959.
7. Cedarvale Ravine Trail
Another moderate trail when it comes to difficulty, the Cedarvale Ravine trail is 7.1km long and takes roughly an hour and a half to complete. This trail is the perfect place to see some nature, as well as experience some of the city’s modern history! This trail follows the Beltline railway, a rail line built in the 1800s to serve the growing city of Toronto.
8. Lower Don Recreation Trail
Clocking in at 12.4 km, the Lower Don Recreation cycling trail takes roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. In the heart of Toronto’s east end, it is the perfect way to begin or end your bike ride to the Don Valley trail. The Lower Don Recreation trail involves long stretches of natural and urban terrain, accommodating cyclists of all skill levels. End your ride off by relaxing at Riverdale Park to the south and E.T. Seton Park to the North!
9. Colonel Samuel Smith Park Trail
A staple in Toronto’s vast network of biking trails, Colonel Samuel Smith Park is the perfect way to escape the downtown core. Located in Etobicoke off the western waterfront, the park offers over 200 acres of green space with a trail that clocks in at 11.4 km. When you’re done with your ride, kick back and relax while enjoying a beautiful skyline view of the downtown core.
10. Coronation Park Trail
Clocking in at an hour to complete, this 5.3 km cycling trail isn’t one you want to miss. Located right near Toronto’s iconic Ontario Place, this is another incredible way to bike while enjoying the scenic view of the waterfront. While you’re there, make sure you stop by and check out the beautiful World War memorial, featuring a statue of King George VI.
Bike trails in Toronto: A conclusion
No matter what type of trail you want to discover, we hope you have found one on this list! Though it is a massive city, Toronto is home to many beautiful nature getaways and trails for you to escape to. Remember to always exercise caution on trails such as these, as many professional bikers use them as well! If you need a refresher on some crucial biking safety, check out our article on five cycling safety tips. Enjoy your ride!
