The first day of summer kicks off tomorrow, and we’re more than ready! Even with the gloomy weather, we’ve been out and about this June, exploring our beautiful province and making new memories. As the season officially begins, we’re excited to keep the momentum going by enjoying nature’s hidden corners, breathtaking views, and everything in between. What better way to do that than on a scenic boardwalk trail? Luckily, Ontario is full of them, and some of the best are just a drive away.
We’ve compiled a list of the best boardwalks in Ontario worthy of exploring this summer, and we’re sure you’ll love them:
Just a few minutes away from Canada’s capital, Ottawa, you’ll find Chapman Mills. This area sprawls across 23 acres of land, located on the west bank of the Rideau River.
Chapman Mills has about 1.5 km of trails with several lookout points along the way. As you trek along the trail, you’ll come across a few boardwalks.
Where: 253 Winding Way – Ottawa, Ont.
We’ve never met a boardwalk trail we didn’t like, but this one might be Ontario’s best. Hardy Lake Provincial Park is one of the quieter hiking spots in the Muskoka region, with a wooden walkway to take in your surroundings.
There are no visitor facilities or amenities at Hardy Lake, according to Ontario Parks, but the fascinating geological history makes it a destination worth visiting.
Where: Highway 169 – Torrance, Ont.
If you find yourself in Ontario’s Muskoka region, check out Hunters Bay Trail for a long and leisurely hike through a boardwalk that looks as if its floating on top of the water.
Located right in Huntsville, this is said to be one of the most amazing hikes in the whole area.
Per Muskoka Tourism, the Hunters Bay Trail is a walking, running and cycling trail that spans 4.6 km in length.
Where: Main St. West (off Highway 11), Huntsville, Ont.
The park is located in the town of Mono, along the Bruce Trail. It’s also part of the Niagara Escarpment Parks System and the Escarpment Biosphere Reserve.
It has a breathtaking spillway trail that takes you right through a canyon, clifftops, and 30-metre rock faces.
Where: 795086 3rd Line EHS – Shelburne, Ont.
Located at this park is a fascinating 1-km boardwalk trail through lush marshland.
It is the largest protected marsh on the north shore of Lake Ontario, and the vast landscape is truly breathtaking, especially from the wooden lookout towers.
Where: 328 Presqu’Ile Pky – Brighton, Ont.
This lovely walk is located on the southern shores of Manitoulin Island. According to Destination Ontario, the beach community of Providence Bay is home to a two-kilometre boardwalk, and it is a local highlight.
Where: Mutchmor Street, Central Manitoulin, Ont.
Walk along the Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Walkway, which stretches over 2.5 km. It trails alongside the St. Mary’s River, between Canal Drive and the Art Gallery of Algoma in the downtown area.
According to Destination Ontario, you can watch “marine traffic navigate locks along the river and take in views of the International Bridge, Whitefish Island, and even the US shoreline in Michigan State.”
Where: 5V4 Hub Trail, St. Marys River D – Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.
Located in London, ON, the Sifton Bog trail features a beautiful wooden boardwalk that leads out to Redmond’s Pond. This park is also home to ecologically significant wetlands, according to Destination Ontario. “Notably, it’s one of the most southern floating acidic peat bogs with boreal plant life in Canada.”
This scenic route is worth exploring.
Location: 1210 Oxford St W., London, Ont.
According to Destination Ontario, the eastern boardwalk stretches 3.5 km along the Lake Ontario shoreline right in Toronto’s east end and Beaches neighbourhood.
This boardwalk runs parallel to the mixed-use Martin Goodman Trail, and there are benches facing the lake, perfect for watching the sunset. The entire boardwalk stretches between Balmy Beach Park and Ashbridges Bay Park.
Where: Between Balmy Beach Park and Ashbridges Bay Park
Recent Posts:
Toronto is getting a salsa street festival with latin food and free dance lessons
A Toronto artist is creating stunning sketches of city streets
