Easy hikes and walks around King

Willow Farm Trail winds through the forested hills of St. Andrews in northwest Aurora, connecting neighbourhoods, parks, and open green spaces along its 3.5-kilometre length. The path is mostly compact gravel, following rolling terrain that climbs to one of Aurora’s highest points, with pockets of evergreen forest set within the surrounding deciduous woods. It’s an easy, family-friendly route, popular with hikers and cyclists, and named for Willow Farm, a property once owned by the Cosford family until 1903, whose land eventually gave way to the neighbourhood that surrounds the trail today.

This small pond sits among the trees at the northeast end of Willow Farm Trail, with a stone bridge nearby crossing the water. Surrounded by woodland and open green space, there is a nice bench here, and it’s a quiet spot to pause and watch for birds and other wildlife around the water. In winter, it’s sometimes cleared for skating and becomes a neighbourhood gathering spot, adding a lively element beyond its everyday quiet.

Shad Creek runs through the wooded landscape of northwest Aurora, with the Willow Farm/Lakeview trail system crossing and following parts of the creek several times throughout its course. The surrounding trees and low-lying areas give this section a more natural feel than the nearby residential streets. In late April, trout lilies bloom in abundance along its banks, with marsh marigolds and trilliums following soon after.

Parking for this section of the Oak Ridges Trail is available along the shoulder of 16th Sideroad where it meets Weston Road. There isn't a formal trailhead parking lot, but there's plenty of space on both sides of the road close to the trail entrance. Depending on the time of day and which side you choose, the mature trees along the roadside can provide a welcome patch of shade.

Part of the headwaters region of the Humber River watershed, Humber Source Woods protects forests, wetlands, and groundwater recharge areas on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Rain and snowmelt filtered through the moraine's sandy soils help feed the streams and tributaries that eventually flow south towards Lake Ontario. The mature woodland and quiet atmosphere make this a good place to appreciate the natural processes that support one of southern Ontario's most important river systems.

This small lake provides a peaceful break from the surrounding woodland, with calm water and dense vegetation creating a quiet, secluded atmosphere. In summer, shoreline plants can make it difficult to tell where solid ground ends and the water begins, so it's best to stay on the trail when exploring the area. During the warmer months, local beehives can sometimes be found a short distance from the lake. Take a moment to enjoy the meditative buzz of the bees as part of the forest soundscape, but give the hives plenty of space and avoid approaching them.

Centennial Park is an IMBA-designed trail system that offers a network of woodland trails that wind through quiet forest, open clearings, and gently rolling terrain. The park is a popular destination for mountain bikers, so keep an eye out for others enjoying the trails while you’re here. With convenient parking, a picnic shelter, and several loop options, it’s an easy spot to explore on foot and enjoy a peaceful stretch of nature close to town.

Running for over 300 kilometres along the spine of the Oak Ridges Moraine, the Oak Ridges Trail follows rolling forest, kettle lakes, wetlands, and quiet rural backroads across one of Ontario’s most important ecological corridors. The route links numerous conservation areas and nature reserves, offering steady shade, mixed hardwood forest, boardwalks, and wide hilltop views in places. With well-marked segments and frequent access points, it’s popular for both day hikes and longer through-sections. It's a scenic, varied trail system that showcases the Moraine’s unique landscapes just north of the GTA.