Best Places to Visit for Your Next Great Outdoor Adventure in Ontario

Are you ready to soak up the sunshine and explore the best that Ontario's great outdoors has to offer? From scenic hiking trails to thrilling cycling routes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And the best part? Getting there has never been easier, thanks to GO Transit! Our reliable service allows you to leave the car behind and discover Ontario's natural beauty, making your journey stress-free and eco-friendly. With perks like kids 12 and under GO for free, the $10 One-Day Weekend Pass, and Weekday Group Passes starting at $30 for two people, enjoying these outdoor adventures is both fun and affordable. Grab your gear, hop on GO, and create incredible memories in Ontario's natural playground!

Best Day Hikes in Ontario

Niagara Glen

Closest GO station: Niagara Falls GO

For an unforgettable outdoor adventure, head to Niagara Glen. Just a short distance from the breathtaking Niagara Falls, this area offers stunning views of the Niagara River and the impressive gorge shaped by nature over thousands of years. The well-marked trails cater to hikers of all skill levels, making it easy to explore the rugged cliffs, lush forests, and unique geological features.

As you hike, look for the diverse wildlife and plants that inhabit this beautiful landscape. Be sure to stop at the overlooks to capture breathtaking photography of the rushing waterfalls below.

Getting there is simple with easy connections at the Niagara Falls GO station. From the station, it’s just a quick walk to the trailhead, letting you dive straight into your outdoor adventure without the hassle of driving. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your gear, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Niagara Glen!

Hendrie Valley Trail at Royal Botanical Gardens

Closest GO station: Burlington GO

Discover the serene Hendrie Valley Trail at Royal Botanical Gardens, a haven for nature lovers. To get there, take the GO Train to Burlington GO Station, then hop on a local bus that will take you directly to the gardens.

The trail features well-maintained paths suitable for all fitness levels, surrounded by lush woodlands and beautiful gardens. As you explore, enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views. With easy access via GO Transit, the Hendrie Valley Trail at Royal Botanical Gardens is a perfect spot for a refreshing outdoor escape!

Barrie Waterfront Heritage Trail in Allandale Station Park

Closest GO Station: Allandale Waterfront GO

The Barrie Waterfront Heritage Trail in Allandale Station Park blends natural beauty with rich history, offering an engaging experience for visitors. Stretching along the scenic shoreline of Kempenfelt Bay, the trail connects historical landmarks, like the restored Allandale Train Station, with lush greenery and stunning waterfront views. Ideal for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing, this trail invites visitors to explore Barrie's past while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of the park. It’s a must-visit spot for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. All you need to do is take GO Transit to Allandale Waterfront GO station and then it’s a short walk to the start of the trail.

Best Cycle Routes Using GO Transit

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail

Closest GO station: Niagara Falls GO/ Burlington GO/ West Harbour GO

If you're searching for a cycling route that offers unmatched diversity and stunning vistas, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a must-ride this summer. This expansive trail around Lake Ontario provides an unforgettable cycling experience for everyone—from casual riders to seasoned cyclists seeking a longer adventure. With multiple GO Transit stops along the way, you can select a route distance that fits your schedule and abilities.

The Waterfront Trail enchants cyclists with its picturesque lakeside views, winding paths, and vibrant blend of urban and natural scenery. Several rest stops line the route, offering ideal spots to pause, soak in the views, or refuel with a snack.

Getting there has never been easier. GO Transit welcomes bikes on board, so starting your cycling adventure is simple. You can hop on and off GO at different stations to create a customizable route that suits your pace.

Niagara River Recreation Trail (Niagara Parkway - North and South Parkway Trail)

Closest GO station: Niagara Falls GO

The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a fantastic way to enjoy the stunning views along the river. It features two main sections: the North Parkway, which offers a more secluded, nature-filled experience, while the South Parkway is known for its proximity to attractions and vibrant parks.

From Niagara Falls GO Station, it's approximately 4 kilometers to the trailhead, making it easily accessible. Additionally, select Lakeshore West trains on GO Transit include bike carriages, so you can conveniently bring your bike from the Greater Toronto Area. Who says Niagara Falls is only the falls? Get on two wheels and explore the whole region!

Allandale Station Park Biking Trails

Closest GO station: Allandale Waterfront GO

For those looking for an adventure or a relaxing day around the water, head to Allandale Station Park Biking Trails! Located just steps from the Allandale Waterfront GO, these scenic trails cater to all skill levels. They offer a mix of paved paths and compacted gravel to get the most use out of your hybrid bike!

If you're up for a longer ride, you can extend your trip all the way to Orillia or even Midland on the Oro-Medonte Rail Trail, enjoying beautiful landscapes and farm fields along the way.

Just hop on the train to Allandale Waterfront GO, and you're ready to hit the trails. Don’t forget your water and snacks!

Ontario’s Waterfront

J.C Saddington

Closest GO station: Port Credit GO

J.C Saddington Park in Mississauga is a dream destination for urban anglers, offering easy shoreline access to fish for bass, pike, and sunfish. You can catch the Lake Ontario ferry from the Lakeshore West line at Port Credit GO, which is only a short walk from the park. Once there, enjoy tranquil views of Lake Ontario, picnic areas, and an overall relaxing atmosphere, perfect for fishing and unwinding.

Toronto Harbourfront

Closest GO station: Union Station

Toronto Harbourfront is a vibrant destination that showcases the city's successful efforts to clean and revitalize the water quality in Toronto Harbour. It is a fantastic place for biking, running, walking, or simply relaxing by the water, with safe areas for swimming and fishing.

A short ferry ride from downtown Toronto brings you to the Toronto Islands, offering a perfect escape. Enjoy sandy beaches, lush landscapes, and trails ideal for exploring on foot or by bike. With GO Transit making access easy, grab your beach gear or bike and dive into the beauty of Toronto’s waterfront!

Centennial Beach Barrie

Closest GO station: Barrie South GO

For a taste of Ontario's pristine lakes without the long drive to cottage country, Centennial Beach Barrie is the ideal spot. This sandy beach along Lake Simcoe features a shallow swimming area, picnic spots, and scenic walking trails. This is a great option for kids, with lifeguards and playgrounds.Getting there is easy with GO Transit; just catch the train to Barrie South GO Station and walk for 13 minutes – in no time, you’ll be lounging on the beach.

Pick your activity and let GO Transit handle the rest!

Make this summer peaceful, energetic, and grounding by getting outdoors while you explore the vast local Canadian countryside. You don't need a car to explore all the fantastic spots listed here — just hop on a GO train or a bus, and you're off to your next outdoor adventure. Leave the stress to us. Focus on packing everything you need for the day, whether it's your hiking gear, beach blanket, or even your bike, and you're good to go! Gather your friends or family, grab snacks, and let GO Transit take you to the best outdoor fun this summer—adventure is calling!