The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oshawa
5.0
(16)
107
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10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Oshawa offer a diverse range of natural environments, from the Lake Ontario shoreline to the northern Oak Ridges Moraine. The region features extensive wetlands, such as the Second Marsh Wildlife Reserve, and numerous creek valleys like those carved by Oshawa Creek and Harmony Creek. These areas provide varied terrain, including flat waterfront paths, forested trails, and gentle inclines, making them suitable for different hiking preferences.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Oshawa
- The most popular…
Last updated: October 18, 2026
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5
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11.5km
02:56
40m
40m
Hike the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path, a 7.2-mile paved route offering diverse scenery, including botanical gardens and creek view
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6.86km
01:46
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.83km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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hikers
1.30km
00:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.55km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Woodland Trail is a short, roughly 300-metre section through one of McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve’s more enclosed forest areas. The mown-grass path feels noticeably different from the open marsh and shoreline trails nearby, with mature trees and thicker vegetation closing in around the route. The surrounding woodland is also an active restoration area, where volunteers have been removing invasive plants and reintroducing native species to improve the habitat.
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The Brick-by-Brick Park – sometimes also called Brick-Valley Park – is one of the many green spaces along the Oshawa Creek and is traversed by the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path. Like other parks in Oshawa, it served as a filming location for a movie, the episode „Nolite Te Bastardes Carborundorum” of the series *The Handmaid’s Tale*. https://www.oshawa.ca/parks-and-facilities/details/?facilityId=TNT-COO-00000261-7D57C4E8-01B2-4B0A-832E-5E7B809A1B80 Visit on June 28, 2026
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McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve is a peaceful natural area in Oshawa, where wetlands, meadows, and wooded trails create a quiet setting along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Walking paths wind through marshland and forested sections, with boardwalks, lookout areas, and excellent opportunities to spot birds, deer, turtles, and other wildlife throughout the reserve. Surrounded by protected habitat near Second Marsh, it has a calm, tucked-away feel that makes it especially popular for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature close to the city.
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The Discovery Trail is the longer of the two trails through the Purple Woods and it travels through woodlands and open meadows. If you're here in the lead up to the annual Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival that takes place each March, you may see trees being tapped for sap collection.
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Purple Woods Conservation Area offers year-round hiking with sweeping southern views and connections to the Oak Ridges Trail. Visitors can enjoy short, accessible routes like the Sugar Shack and Discovery Walk trails, while spotting migratory songbirds in spring and fall, Monarch butterflies in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. Each March, the 41-acre site transforms into the hub of the Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival, celebrating the area’s 150-year-old sugar maple forest. The festival highlights the evolution of syrup-making from Indigenous traditions to modern techniques, with maple products available for visitors to take home.
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Brick by Brick Park is a beautiful green space shaded by mature trees tucked along the city’s trail network. There are several outdoor fitness stations and plenty of open areas perfect for a picnic or simply a place to relax and connect with nature.
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Beaton Point, historically known as Beaton Farm, is now part of the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve and home to Oshawa Second Marsh. This pristine area is popular for birdwatching.
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The Second Marsh coastal wetland, along with the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve and Darlington Provincial Park, forms one of the largest publicly accessible riparian landscapes in the Greater Toronto Area. It is the largest remaining wetland in the region and includes reed beds, marshes, wet meadows, a beach ridge, and forested areas with numerous plant and bird species as well as other animal species. The wetland is considered a valuable habitat and unique ecosystem on the north shore of Lake Ontario. Source: https://www.secondmarsh.ca/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Oshawa?
Oshawa offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking trails. This guide features 7 routes, with 5 of them being easy and suitable for all ages, ensuring there's something for every family to enjoy.
Are there any easy, short loop trails suitable for young children in Oshawa?
Absolutely! For a pleasant and easy loop, consider the Purple Woods loop via Discovery Trail. It's just over 1 km long with minimal elevation, perfect for little legs. Another great option is the Harmony Valley Park loop, which is around 2.5 km and also very easy.
Which trails in Oshawa are best for spotting wildlife with kids?
Oshawa's diverse natural areas are fantastic for wildlife viewing. The **Second Marsh Wildlife Reserve** and **McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve** are particularly rich in biodiversity, hosting numerous bird and mammal species. Trails like the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path and Harmony Creek Trail follow creek valleys where you might spot trout and salmon during migration seasons, as well as other local fauna.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in Oshawa?
Many of Oshawa's trails, especially those along the waterfront and within city parks, are paved or well-maintained, making them suitable for strollers. The **Waterfront Trail** offers 11 km of scenic, flat pathways. The Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path is also generally well-suited for strollers, providing a smooth surface through natural settings.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see along the family trails?
Oshawa's trails offer a variety of sights. Along the waterfront, you can explore the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve and Second Marsh, which are significant wetlands. Further inland, the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path winds through scenic creek valleys. Don't miss the Darlington Provincial Park Nature Trail for views over Lake Ontario.
Are dogs allowed on family-friendly hiking trails in Oshawa?
Yes, many trails in Oshawa are dog-friendly, provided your furry companions are kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before you go, but generally, conservation areas and city trails welcome leashed dogs. Harmony Valley Park, for example, is known for its dog park, and the surrounding loop trail is also popular with dog walkers.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Oshawa?
Most major trailheads and conservation areas in Oshawa offer designated parking. For instance, you'll find parking available at **Darlington Provincial Park**, **Second Marsh Wildlife Reserve**, and near access points for the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path and Harmony Valley Park loop. It's always a good idea to check the specific trail's starting point for parking details.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Oshawa?
Oshawa offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall showcases stunning autumn foliage, especially in areas like **Cedar Valley Conservation Area** and the **Oak Ridges Moraine**. Summer is perfect for enjoying the waterfront trails, and even winter hiking can be magical on well-maintained paths, though some trails may be less accessible.
Are there any trails with low elevation gain, suitable for families seeking a flat walk?
Many of Oshawa's trails are relatively flat, making them ideal for families. The **Waterfront Trail** is a prime example, offering 11 km of flat terrain along Lake Ontario. The Harmony Creek Trail and the Harmony Valley Park loop also feature minimal elevation changes, providing comfortable walks for all skill levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Oshawa?
The family-friendly trails in Oshawa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse natural scenery ranging from lakefront wetlands to peaceful creek valleys, and the accessibility for all ages and abilities. The opportunity to spot local wildlife and enjoy serene natural surroundings close to the city are frequently highlighted.
Can we access these trails using public transport?
While many trails are best accessed by car, some areas in Oshawa are reachable via public transport. The Oshawa Transit system serves various parts of the city, and you can plan your route to get close to trailheads for places like the **Waterfront Trail** or the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path. We recommend checking the Oshawa Transit website for specific bus routes and schedules.
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