The best walks and hikes around Severn

Part of the Simcoe County Forest, Silver Creek Tract protects a large area of mixed woodland, pine plantation, wetlands, and rolling terrain. A network of multi-use trails and forest roads criss-crosses the property, making it a popular destination for walking, cycling, horseback riding, and winter recreation. Despite its proximity to several communities, the tract feels surprisingly secluded, with long stretches of forest and very little development visible from the trails.

Spanning more than 13,000 hectares across over 150 properties, the Simcoe County Forest is one of the largest municipal forest systems in Ontario. Originally established in the early 1920s to restore worn-out farmland and sandy wastelands, it has grown into a network of forests, wetlands, and recreation areas used for walking, cycling, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Today, the forest continues to be actively managed for conservation, habitat protection, recreation, and sustainable forestry, making it a unique example of large-scale reforestation success in Ontario.

Grant’s Woods Trails are a network of short, colour-marked loops that make it easy to explore the reserve at your own pace, with routes ranging from short woodland walks to longer connected circuits. The gently rolling paths cross small bridges, pass through shady forest, and skirt wetland edges, creating variety without steep or difficult terrain. Quiet and well-maintained, the trails are a popular spot for an easy nature walk in a beautiful and peaceful forest setting.

Grant’s Woods Nature Reserve protects a quiet stretch of mature forest, wetlands, and small ravines, creating an important refuge for native plants and wildlife. Managed by the Couchiching Conservancy, the reserve includes stands of maple, oak, ash, and eastern hemlock, helping preserve one of the region’s remaining natural woodlands. The area is dotted with benches, bridges, and interpretive signs that invite visitors to slow down and explore the landscape while preserving the environment.

The Millennium Trail through Tudhope Park is paved and takes you right along the edge of the water. There are a series of informative plaques along the path that tell you about the area's industrial history. Parts of the Millennium Trail follow an old railroad grade that used to run through Orillia.

The park is large and has lots of trails, green spaces, shady benches, and coastline to explore. You can dip your toes in the water from Moose Beach after your walk, and there is sometimes an ice cream stand open near the parking lot.

This statue, "Golden Leaves", commemorates musical artist Gordon Lightfoot. Twenty-six different designs on leaves above Gordon's head each represent a different song from the 1975 album "Gord's Gold". Lightfoot was born in Orillia and the statue was gifted to the city in 2015.

The Matchedash Bay Trail is an accessible way to experience the beauty of the Matchedash Bay Provincial Wildlife Area. The trail is flat and passes through wooded patches, marsh edges, and occasional viewpoints of Catfish Bay. Bring sunblock and a hat for a sunny day here.