Bruce Trail Day Hikes: Where to Hike Ontario’s Best Trail

The Bruce Trail is one of Canada’s top hiking trails and we are so fortunate to have it running through our backyard of Ontario. At 900 kilometres in length, stretching from Niagara to Tobermory, the hiking the Bruce Trail is on many outdoor enthusiasts trail bucket lists. But you don’t have to hike it all in one go! You can easily enjoy Bruce Trail day hikes over time and work your way up to completing the trail.

But with 900 kilometres of trail and over 400 kilometres in associated side trails where are do you find the best places to hike along the Bruce Trail? Well, I’ve got you covered! I’ve compiled the best Bruce Trail day hikes from Niagara to Tobermory so you can start planning your next hike!

Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail Story

The idea began in 1960 when Raymond Lowes spoke with Robert Bateman at a meeting of the Federation of Ontario Naturalists about a footpath that would cover the Niagara Escarpment. After meetings with landowners, towns, and volunteers the Federation of Ontario Naturalists surveyed the route. And after seven years, in 1967, the cairn in Tobermory was placed and the Bruce Trail was officially open. It is Canada’s oldest and longest marked hiking trail.

20 of the Best Bruce Trail Day Hikes

There are nine sections of the Bruce Trail; Peninsula, Sydenham, Beaver Valley, Blue Mountains, Dufferin Hi-Land, Caledon Hills, Toronto, Iroquoia, and Niagara. Each trail section of the Bruce Trail has a host of different places to hike. Most hikes range from one to 12 hours long.

Peninsula Section

If you’re looking for some good Bruce Trail day hikes the best are found on the Bruce Peninsula. In my opinion, the Peninsula section of the Bruce Trail has the most scenic hikes. This section covers from Tobermory to Wiarton.

Bruce Peninsula grotto

Hiking to the Grotto

The Bruce Peninsula’s Grotto is one of the most popular places to hike in Ontario, so much so you now have to book a time slot to park at Cyprus Lake. The Grotto is a stunning sea cave along the coast and is filled with crystal blue waters and is a dreamy spot to soak in the beauty of Georgian Bay. But how do you get to the Grotto?

There are a few different trail options that will get you to the Grotto. The quickest is the Georgian Bay Trail. The trail leads you through wildlife filled forests and up to Indian Cove. It’s one of the best trails in Ontario for awesome views, as you take in the contrast of blue waters against the limestone cliffs and gorgeous green forest of the Bruce Peninsula National Park. And just further north of the cove along the Bruce Trail, after scrambling over rock, you’ll find the famous Grotto. If you want to take a different route back continue along the Bruce to Boulder Beach and head back via Marr Lake Trail, where you’ll connect back up with Georgian Bay Trail just before the parking lot.

Cost: Parking fee of $11.70

Burnt Point Loop

If you’re looking for a nice and easy Bruce Trail hike then head to the Bruce Peninsula National Park’s Visitor Centre where you can start hiking Burnt Point Loop. The trail is four kilometres long and takes you through a variety of landscapes, from forests to rocky beaches. There are a bunch of different viewpoints as well including Dunks Point where you can see across to Flowerpot Island.

Cost: Parking fee of $11.70

Lion's Head on the Bruce Peninsula Ontario

Lions Head

One of my favourite places to hike in Bruce County is Lions Head Provincial Park. This 500 hectare nature reserve is located halfway up the Peninsula and is home to one of the oldest forests in North America. It’s one of the best places for hiking on the Bruce Peninsula and for bird watching.  The Bruce Trail and its side trails run through the park making it possible to create a loop back to your car at the McCurdy Drive Parkette. Lions Head is full of incredible sights, from geological potholes to numerous cliff top views of Georgian Bay.

Cost: Free

Spirit Rock ruins

Spirit Rock Conservation Area

You may be surprised but there is more to find along the Bruce Trail than just nature, views, and wildlife. There’s a wealth of historic ruins to be found! One such place is at the Spirit Rock Conservation area, located just north of Wiarton. Here you can hike along the Bruce Trail, its side trails, see trilliums blanketing the forest floor, find a hidden spiral staircase, enjoy sweeping views of Colpoy’s Bay, and even explore the ruins of the McNeill estate. Built in 1901, the once lavish estate is now being taking over by nature, making for a magical backdrop for your Bruce Trail hike.

Cost: Parking fee of $6

Sydenham Section

If it’s epic views and caves you’re after then the Sydenham section of the Bruce Trail is a great place to hike. This section is also home to some incredible Grey County waterfalls that can be found along the Bruce Trail. This section covers from Wiarton to Blantyre.

On the edge of Skinner's Bluff

Skinner’s Bluff

If you’re looking for Bruce Trail day hikes with epic views then one hike that should be on your list is Skinner’s Bluff. Located just north of Owen Sound, it’s a long drive into Skinner’s Bluff Management Area but I guarantee you it’s worth it. Hiking Skinner’s Bluff you’ll find the classic rooty and rocky Niagara Escarpment below your feet and towering trees full of birdlife hugging the trail. But the trail is known for its epic views, especially the Skinner’s Bluff overhang where you’ll feel like Simba on Pride Rock with 180 degree views.

Please note that there is no parking lot. You’ll have to pull to the side of the very narrow road, and in the busy summer months, you’ll want to get there extra early. Also, be aware not to block farmer’s gates.

Cost: Free

Bruce Caves

Bruce Caves

Another awesome place to enjoy a day hike on the Bruce Trail is at Bruce’s Caves Conservation Area. Located just east of Wiarton, along the picturesque Grey Road 1 – a must to add to your road trip up the Bruce Peninsula. Unlike the sea caves that can be found further up the Bruce Peninsula, the Bruce Caves are totally land-bound. They were carved out by waves and water over 7,000 years ago and can now be accessed after a short hike through an enchanted and mossy forest.

Cost: Parking fee of $6

Beaver Valley Section

Another of my favourite sections of the Bruce Trail is the Beave Valley Section, it’s full of more clifftop trails but with different views. And you’ll find more waterfalls! This section covers Blantyre to Craigleith.

Kolapore Forest

Just southwest of Collingwood lies an enchanting forest that is one of Ontario’s least crowded places to hike. The Kolapore Forest. There are 50 kilometres of trails running through it, including the Bruce Trail, many of its side trails like the notable Metcalfe Crevice Side Trail. This incredible section of the Bruce Trail takes you through a nearly 100 foot gorge, which even in the summer is cool with traces of snow, and up to an awesome view of the valley.

Please note, do not enter the Kolapore Forests unless you have a map of the trail system. You can purchase one from the Ravenna General Store or the Kolapore Trails’ website.

Cost: Free

Hogg's Falls

Eugenia

Another great portion of the Bruce Trail with waterfalls is the Eugenia Falls to Hoggs Falls. Eugenia Falls is Grey County’s highest waterfall at nearly 100 feet, and while Hoggs Falls is much smaller, in my opinion it’s the gem of all the area’s waterfalls. The trail is nearly 13 kilometres and is incredible for both the waterfalls you’ll find on either end as well as the views over valley. But be prepared it’s a lot of ups and downs but worth it for waterfalls.

Cost: Parking fee of $6

Blue Mountains Section

If you’re looking for relaxing trails, that are less crowded, but just as spectacular then consider hiking in the Blue Mountains Section of the Bruce Trail. Known for its skiing the area is full of incredible cliffs and hilltop views. This section covers Craigleith to Lavender.

nottawasaga bluffs

Nottawasaga Bluffs

One of my favourite place to hike in Ontario is Nottawasaga Bluffs Conservation Area! It has so much to see and do within the park’s 400 acres. There’s a spectacular lookout, forested trails that are stunning in the fall, and so many crevices and even a small canyon. Along the Bruce Trail, you’ll find the Keyhole Side Trail which is like stepping into a magical hiking ride with a slot canyon, trees growing up through the rocks, and even a pint-sized hole to exit out from. If it’s fun and nature at its wildest you’re after then this is the place to hike the Bruce and its side trails.

Cost: Parking fee of $6.50

Pretty River Provincial Park

Another gem of a park in the Blue Mountains section is Pretty River Provincial Park, just south of Collingwood. After parking off the dirt side road, you can enjoy a splendid hike along the Bruce Trail and the Pretty River Side Trail that creates a loop in the park. There’s a large tranquil pond, a pretty views, and plenty of classic Niagara Escarpment crevices to photograph. And it’s in this park that you’ll find the highest point on the Bruce Trail.  (Note: this is a non-operational park)

Cost: Free

Dufferin Hi-Land Sections

While it may not be as magic filled as some sections of the Bruce Trail with waterfalls, canyons, and such there is a little bit of enchantment to be found in the Dufferin Hi-Lands Section. This section covers from Lavender to Mono Centre.

Murphy's Pinnacle

Boyne Valley

One of the best places for a late spring hike in Ontario is Boyne Valley Provincial Park. Nowhere have I seen so many colourful wildflowers. It’s also another great place to avoid crowds on the trails. The Bruce Trail runs up through the park and will lead you to Primrose Loop Side Trail and be sure to head up Murphy’s Pinnacle for sweeping views of the lush valley. (Note: this is a non-operational park)

Cost: Free

Mono Cliffs lookout

Mono Cliffs

Set on the border of the Dufferin and Caledon sections is Mono Cliffs Provincial Park. Mono Cliffs is one of those parks that has every kind of landscape you could ask for, there’s a large tranquil lake, epic hill top view that stretches to Toronto on a clear day, stairs up through towering forests, and even an enchanting canyon trail. Even the Bruce Trail running through the park takes you along a clifftop trail.

Cost: Parking Fee of $12.25

Caledon Hills Section

If you’re looking for great places to take in the fall colours in Ontario while hiking head to the Caledon Hills Section of the Bruce Trail. With rolling hills and mature forests you’ll marvel at all the fall colours. This section covers from Mono Centre to Creditview Road.

Hoffman Lime Kiln

Belfountain

A great short Bruce Trail hike that will still make you work for it can be found in the village of Belfountain and will take you to two impressive sights. Just before Belfountain Conservation Area, at the end of Chisholm Road, you’ll find off-street parking. Follow the Bruce Trail up the steep hill to Ring Kiln Side Trail. This enchanting side trail takes you to the ruins of the Hoffman Lime Kiln. Covered in moss it will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. And if you return to the Bruce Trail and continue on you’ll find an eerie set of stone stairs built into a cliff face. Climb them and you’ll find the Devil’s Pulpit, a natural window with beautiful views over the area.

Cost: Free

Hockley Valley Provincial Park trail

Hockley Valley Provincial Park

The Bruce Trail winds its way through Hockley Valley Provincial Park. The park is a great place to hike away from the crowds, along winding rivers and bridges, through picturesque meadows, and even a few nice viewpoints. Hockley Valley is also home to over 400 species of vascular plants, many of which are rare, as well as endangered species, like the northern long-eared bat, northern brook lamprey, and the Jefferson salamander. (Note: this is a non-operational park)

Cost: Free

Toronto Section

Close to the urban sprawl of the city, this section is the perfect spot to enjoy hiking the Bruce Trail near Toronto. Many parks in this section have interesting features and historic ruins. This section covers from Creditview Road to Kelso.

Limehouse Conservation Area

One of the best conservation areas with the Bruce Trail running through it is Limehouse Conservation Area. The park is home to various trails but the Bruce Trail, running straight through it, has some interesting features. Here you’ll find ruins of a mill, lime kilns, the old powder house as well as natural features like the classic cracks and crevices found along the Niagara Escarpment.

Cost: Free

Silver Creek Conservation Area

Silver Creek Conservation Area

If you’re looking for a great place to go hiking near Toronto then check out Silver Creek Conservation Area. Covering over 1000 acres, the park is home to forested trails, boardwalks, an old stone bridge, small waterfalls, and six kilometres of the Bruce Trail. A side trail to check out is the Roberts Side Trail where you’ll find an old lime kiln, among more picturesque trail features.

Cost: Free

Iroquoia Section

Don’t listen to TLC, go chase those waterfalls! And a great section to find waterfalls on the Bruce Trail is in the Iroquoia Section. The waterfall capital of Ontario is smacked dead in the centre of this section of the Bruce Trail. This section covers Milton to Grimsby.

Tews Falls

Dundas

One of the most popular places to hike the Bruce Trail near Toronto is Dundas. Here you’ll find a bunch of different waterfalls along the Bruce Trail and its side trails, some of which include; Tews Falls, Webster’s Falls, and Borer’s Falls. But be aware that it can get crazy busy at times, especially during the summer and fall months.

Cost: Depends on where you park

Smokey Hollow Waterfall

A great alternative to the famous Dundas waterfalls above is Smokey Hollow, otherwise known as Grindstone, Waterdown, or the Great Falls. This 30 foot high waterfall once powered a sawmill but know it powers the hearts of hikers. You can follow the Smokey Hollow Side Trail, found near the lookout at the top of the waterfall, to the Bruce Trail which will take you down into a valley. Make it a loop trail by continuing along the Norman Pearson Side Trail, then the McNally Side Trail – where you’ll find awesome views of the escarpment, and link back up with the Bruce Trail heading back to the lookout.

Cost: Free

Niagara Section

The southern end of the Bruce Trail is the Niagara Section. It’s here, in Queenston Heights Park near the Niagara Falls, that you’ll find the stone cairn marking the beginning or end of the trail. You’ll find more waterfalls in this area along the trail as well as the area’s famous wineries. This section covers Grimsby to Queenstown.

Ball’s Falls

One of the Niagara area’s amazing waterfalls, Ball’s Falls, can be found along the Bruce Trail that runs through Ball’s Falls Conservation Area. But there’s also a historic village with a blacksmith shop, lime kiln, restored church, and the original Balls family home. And it’s a hotspot for wildlife, some of which are endangered, and a must visit for birders as 50 species of migratory birds and over 150 nesting birds can be seen here.

Cost: Unknown

DeCew Falls

Short Hills

You can chase more Bruce Trail waterfalls in the Short Hills Provincial Park area. Located just outside St. Catharines, Short Hills Provincial Park is home to a host of trails, one of which is the Bruce Trail that winds its way across and past Terrace Falls. And if you follow the Bruce Trail east out of the park you’ll find two more waterfalls, Decew Falls and Faucet Falls.

Cost: Free

Tips for Hiking the Bruce Trail

1. Download the Bruce Trail App

If you are a regular hiker of the Bruce Trail then I recommend purchasing the app. It gives you easy to read maps and lets you plan and log your hikes. The app is $20 with the proceeds going back to The Bruce Trail Conservancy. If you’re more of a real map person, like myself, you can also purchase the Bruce Trail Guide. It has individual sections that can be taken out for day use and returned. It also has notes of reference and interesting features found along each section of the trail.

And to make sure you have everything you need for a great day hike check out my hiking must-haves packing list!

2. Stay Up To Date with Trail Changes

The Bruce Trail is constantly evolving. So, be sure to regularly check for trail changes and reroutes on their website. You may be surprised what you’ll find! On a hike a few months ago a few friends and I tried one of the reroutes and it took us to the bottom of a stunning waterfall.

Bruce Trail blazes
3. Know How to Read the Blazes

The Bruce Trail and its side trails are marked with white (for the main Bruce Trail) and blue (for the side trails) blazes. Knowing how to read the blazes is definitely one of those tips all hikers should know. A single blaze means go straight. One blaze to the left and one below slightly to the right means turn left, whereas the right turn is the opposite. And an end of trail blaze is one vertical blaze with one horizontal blaze on top.

4. Be Aware of Grotto Parking Time Slots

Before you make the trek out to the Grotto be aware that there are now timed parking slots for the Cyprus Lake parking lots. So, you’ll have to book ahead of time.

5. Be Aware of Bruce Trail Conditions

As a hiker, you should always be aware of the current conditions in communities that you’re hiking in. There may be flooding, trail changes, a bear in the area, and many other notable things going on, on or near the trail that you should be aware of. So, always check trail conditions before you go.

Keyhole Trail in winter
6. Hiking the Bruce Trail Alone

Whether you’re hiking the Bruce Trail or any other trail alone it’s always smart to be prepared. Make sure you have access to a map, cell phone, plenty of water and snacks, and are in good health before setting out to hike alone. Also, make sure you let a friend or family member know where you are and when you should return. One item I always recommend having is a power bank to ensure you have access to charge your mobile if needed.

7. Have Fun Hiking the Bruce Trail

There are tons of ways to have fun during your Bruce Trail hikes. There are Bruce Trail clubs you can join as well as planned hikes where you can meet fellow hiking enthusiasts. And even Bruce Trail badges that you can collect for completing sections of the trail! To find out more you can sign up for their e-newsletter here.

Do you have a favourite place to hike the Bruce Trail?

PIN FOR LATER REFERENCE!!

Where to Hike the Bruce Trail in Ontario: Top Bruce Trail Day Hikes
Where to Hike the Bruce Trail in Ontario: Top Bruce Trail Day Hikes

Stephanie

I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

You may also like...