Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore the great outdoors, and what better way to do so than by taking a hike with your furry best friend?
Luckily for us, Ontario offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Canada, and there are plenty of dog-friendly options to choose from.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, there's something for everyone on this list. So grab your hiking boots, leash up your dog, and let's hit the trails!
1. Tom East Side Trail, Cam Snell Side Trail, and Bruce Trails Loop
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 13.8 km
- Elevation gain: 438m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 3h 57m
This 13.8-kilometre loop trail is situated in the vicinity of Mono and makes for a great trek with your furry friend. This moderately challenging route typically takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete, and it's a well-liked spot for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other adventure enthusiasts while on your excursion. The trail is best experienced between April to October.
2. High Park Area Trails
- Level: Easy
- Length: 5.1 km
- Elevation gain: 56m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 1h 6m
Located near the bustling city of Toronto, this 5.1 km loop is classified as an easy route and usually takes just over an hour to cover. This trail is open year-round and boasts breathtaking views no matter the season. Feel free to bring your furry friend along as dogs are permitted on the trail and can even roam off-leash in select areas.
3. Orchard Trail
- Level: Easy
- Length: 5.1 km
- Elevation gain: 72m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 1h 9m
Calling all dog owners: you and your furry friend won't want to miss out on this great 5.1-kilometre loop trail located close to Pickering and follows the Little Rouge Creek. The loop follows the Little Rouge Creek and it gradually climbs the escarpment before meeting up with a railroad. The return follows railroad and the edge of the escarpment before descending back to the starting point. There are great options to shorten the loop or lengthen it by following the river further.
4. Granite Ridge Trail
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 2.7 km
- Elevation gain: 54m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 40m
Granite Ridge Trail can be accessed from the parking lot located just south of George Lake Campground near Killarney. This trail is well-marked and boasts numerous scenic viewpoints along the way. Upon reaching the summit, prepare to be amazed by the panoramic vistas of both the Georgian Bay and the La Cloche mountains. While the trail may have some moderate elevation, it's still suitable for hikers of all ages, although hiking boots are recommended.
5. Queenston via Bruce Trail
- Level: Easy
- Length: 8.2 km
- Elevation gain: 111m
- Route type: Out & back
- Time: Est. 1h 50m
If you're looking for an exciting adventure to embark on with your furry friend, be sure to check out this scenic route that winds through the region along the iconic Bruce Trail. Although the area is densely populated, this public trail offers a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your pup. It's important to note that the trail runs adjacent to private property, so be sure to stay on the designated path. The route features some steep inclines and declines, making for an exciting and challenging hike. Additionally, there are several off-trail adventures to explore, making this an ideal choice for those who want to experience the great outdoors with their furry companion.
6. Eels Creek To High Falls
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 5.0 km
- Elevation gain: 107m
- Route type: Out & back
- Time: Est. 1h 16m
Located in North Kawartha, on this southernmost section of the Canadian shield, this trail offers breathtaking views that are typically only found further north. Although the trail starts out easy, it becomes marshy around 300m in and features a creek crossing. Don't worry though, there are logs to aid in crossing, but it can still be a bit tricky. As the trail continues, it climbs onto open rocky sections of the Canadian shield, following the river upstream towards the falls. Along the way, you may even spot Ontario's only native lizard, the five-lined skink. Dogs are more than welcome to join you on this adventure, so be sure to bring your furry friend along for the ride.
7. Duchesnay Falls Trail
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 3.5 km
- Elevation gain: 170m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 1h 13m
This 3.5-km loop trail near North Bay is generally considered a moderately challenging route and takes on average under an hour and a half to complete. This route starts with a short walk to the falls before rapidly climbing up to the Lake Nipissing Lookout. The rest of the route is a smooth downhill descent that leads you back to the falls, with plenty of opportunities to explore side trails along the way. Dogs are welcome on this trail, making it an ideal choice for pet owners looking for a great outdoor adventure to share with their furry companion.
8. Pine Grove Trail
- Level: Easy
- Length: 9.7 km
- Elevation gain: 151m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 2h 14m
If you're looking for a fun dog-friendly hike near Ottawa, this 9.7-km loop trail near is a great choice. The trail is generally easy, taking an average of 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a leisurely walk with your dog. The trails are wide and spacious and ideal for hikers and you can customize the length of your hike with the many available options.
9. Hollidge Tract
- Level: Easy
- Length: 5.8 km
- Elevation gain: 178m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 1h 39m
This 5.8-km loop trail near Whitchurch–Stouffville, this dog-friendly hike departs at the Bill Fisch Forest Centre. The loop trail consists mostly of a wide dirt path, shaded by the forest, with a section of boardwalks leading across the wetlands and creeks. Interpretive signs along the way help you appreciate the rich fauna and flora of the tract. With many different trees and plants, this hike offers a peaceful and relaxing experience.
10. Fletchers Creek Ecological Preserve Loop
- Level: Easy
- Length: 4.7 km
- Elevation gain: 87m
- Route type: Loop
- Time: Est. 1h 8m
Looking for a dog-friendly hiking trail near Puslinch? Look no further than this 4.7-km loop trail in the Fletchers Creek Ecological Preserve, with access points on Concession Road 7 and Gore Road. This trail offers plenty of space for your furry friend to roam, while allowing you to explore an area rich in wildlife. Don't miss the small pond in the middle of a clearing, which offers picturesque views and a great place to rest.
