The 10 best skating paths and trails in and around Toronto

Nov 14 2017, 3:48 am

When the temperature drops, it means it’s officially time to go ice-skating.

And for those who find skating rinks too crowded, they might want to consider paying one of the many outdoor skating trails and paths a visit this winter.

Because there’s just something peaceful about getting to skate through the trees that makes you forget about the craziness of the city.

So get ready to lace up your skates and head to one of these magical skating trails and paths in and around Toronto this winter.

See also

Greenwood Park

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For those interested in skating at their own pace, while still having the option to check out a rink, look no further than Greenwood Park. This park is home to an ice skating trail that’s located beside the city’s first covered outdoor ice rink.

Status: Opening November 25
Where:
 150 Greenwood Park

Colonel Samuel Smith Park

First skate of the season

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This stunning Lakeshore skating path is actually made in the shape of a large figure-eight and provides skaters with plenty of scenic views. This rink is unsupervised so skaters will need to bring their own gear.

Status: Opening November 25
Where:
 145 Lake Shore Boulevard West

Dieppe Park Loop

Skating trails

City of Toronto

If you’ve got some little ones who want to go for an afternoon skate, you’ll find a great skating trail at Dieppe Park. There’s also a large outdoor rink located next door for those interested in a game of shinny.

Status: Opening November 25
Address: 455 Cosburn Avenue

Waterdown Skating Loop

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Just under an hour from Toronto, you can lace up at the new outdoor skating loop at Waterdown Rotary Memorial Park. The loop is 230 metres long and is surrounded by trees, creating the perfect setting to perfect your stride.

Status: Opening in December
Address: 200 Hamilton Street, Waterdown

Richmond Green Skate Trail

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Just under an hour north of the city, you can lace up and go for a twirl on Richmond Hill’s skating trail. The trail runs through 250-metres of natural space and the trail is lit up with lights for those interested in enjoying an evening skate.

Status: Opening in December
Address: 1300 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill

Arrowhead Provincial Park

Despite being three hours from Toronto, this 1.3-kilometre trail in Huntsville is definitely worth the trip. The picturesque trails winds through thick Muskoka forest, creating the ultimate setting for a winter afternoon.

Status: Opening December 20 (weather permitting)
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Road, Huntsville

Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh Skating Trail

If you’re in the Muskoka region, you can also check out the Johnston’s Cranberry facility, which features a gorgeous 1.2-kilometre skating loop that cuts through 12 acres of cranberries. With forest on one side and cranberry beds on the other, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Status: Opening December 27
Address: 1074 Cranberry Road, Bala

Gardiner Trail

This winter marks the first season for the new Gardiner Trail, which will be located below the city’s busy Gardiner Expressway. The trail is one part of a massive project called The Bentway and it features a large figure-eight trail that will run 1.75-kilometres from near June Callwood Park to just east of the Fort York Visitor’s Centre. While this trail is still under construction, we can already tell it’s going to be a hit.

Status: Opening as early as late December
Address: From the CNE grounds to Bathurst Street

MacGegor Point Provincial Park

For those who find themselves in the Port Elgin area this winter, you’re going to want to pay MacGregor Point Provincial Park a visit. Just three hours northwest of Toronto, you’ll find this 400-metre trail that winds through the park’s picturesque snow-covered trees. Every evening until 10 pm overhead trail lights will be turned on so you can skate under the stars every day of the week.

Status: Opening in December
Address: 1593 Bruce Road 33

Trent Canal

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Roughly two hours from Toronto, you’ll find a sprawling canal that turns into an impressive outdoor skating trail along the Trent-Severn Waterway in Peterborough in the winter. It’s perfect for those looking to play some puck or for a new place to enjoy an afternoon skate.

Status: Opening mid-winter (weather dependent)
Address: 220 Hunter Street East, Peterborough

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