The best running trails around Toronto

Toronto offers a vast network of over 700 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.

Yes, Toronto has plenty of options for beginners or those looking for an easier run. You'll find over 80 easy routes, many of which are flat and paved, especially along the waterfront. The Princes' Gate – View of the Marina loop from Exhibition is a moderate 9.2 km option that offers scenic views without significant elevation changes.

Toronto's running trails offer a diverse range of terrains. You can enjoy long stretches of paved paths along the Lake Ontario waterfront, such as sections of the Martin Goodman Trail. Inland, parks like High Park provide a mix of paved roads and smaller dirt paths, while the extensive ravine systems, including the Lower Don River Trails and the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail, offer lush, natural escapes with varied surfaces.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer, more challenging run, Toronto has nearly 100 difficult routes. The Marilyn Bell Park Boardwalk – Princes' Gate loop from St. Louis Catholic School is a great option, covering over 15 km with moderate elevation changes, offering a rewarding experience along the waterfront.

Many of Toronto's parks and trails are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. Popular spots like High Park, sections of the Martin Goodman Trail, and the Toronto Islands are generally welcoming to dogs. Always check local signage for specific rules and regulations in different areas.

Toronto's waterfront routes are particularly scenic, offering stunning views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline. You can run past the iconic CN Tower, the impressive Humber Bay Arch Bridge, and the vibrant Harbourfront Centre. The Toronto Islands also provide unparalleled skyline vistas, while the Scarborough Bluffs offer dramatic cliff views.

Yes, many of Toronto's running routes are easily accessible via public transport. The waterfront trails, including the Martin Goodman Trail, can be reached from various TTC subway and streetcar stops. High Park has its own subway station, and the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail is also well-connected to public transit, making it convenient to start your run.

Most of the running routes in Toronto are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Princes' Gate – Toronto Music Garden loop from Toronto Union Station is a popular 8.9 km circular route along the waterfront. Many trails within High Park and the Toronto Islands also form natural loops.

While popular spots can get busy, you can find quieter runs by exploring the extensive ravine systems, such as the Lower Don River Trails or parts of the Humber River trails, especially during off-peak hours. The Kay Gardner Beltline Trail, while popular, often feels less crowded due to its length and lush surroundings. For a truly car-free and tranquil experience, consider a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands.

Many of Toronto's parks and paved trails are excellent for families. High Park offers a mix of easy paths, playgrounds, and even a zoo. The Toronto Islands, with their car-free environment and sandy beaches, are perfect for leisurely family jogs. The flat, well-maintained sections of the Martin Goodman Trail are also suitable for strollers and younger runners.

For winter jogging, focus on well-maintained, paved paths that are more likely to be cleared of snow and ice. The Martin Goodman Trail along the waterfront is often a good choice, as are the main paved roads within High Park. The Kay Gardner Beltline Trail, being an old railway line, is also relatively flat and can be manageable in winter conditions, though conditions may vary.

The komoot community highly rates Toronto's running routes, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the city's extensive waterfront paths, the surprising amount of green space within an urban environment, and the variety of terrains available. The stunning views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline are frequently highlighted as a major draw.