Looking to glide through serene, snow-covered landscapes this winter? Cross country skiing is the perfect way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, and luckily, there are plenty of incredible cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Toronto’s parks and nearby conservation areas offer diverse trails suited for all skill levels. From scenic urban escapes to challenging countryside routes, these trails promise a winter adventure like no other. After a day on the trails, explore more seasonal fun with Toronto’s best winter activities, from ice skating to festivals. In this guide, we’ll take you through Toronto’s best cross country skiing trails, revealing the top cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto that will have you strapping on your skis and hitting the snow in no time. Ready to discover the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto? Let’s dive in!
Top 15 Cross Country Skiing Trails Around Toronto
- High Park
- Taylor Creek Park
- Tommy Thompson Park
- Kortright Centre for Conservation
- Albion Hills Conservation Park
- Centennial Park
- Sunnybrook Park
- Earl Bales Park
- Cedarvale Ravine
- Humber Valley Trail
- Rouge National Urban Park
- Morningside Park
- Hardwood Ski and Bike
- Dagmar Ski Resort
- Scenic Caves Nordic Centre
High Park
High Park is a must-visit for cross country skiers in search of an accessible yet picturesque trail within Toronto. Located in the heart of the city, this park is renowned for its wide-open spaces and serene natural settings, especially in winter. The trails in High Park cater mostly to beginners and intermediate skiers, offering relatively easy terrain with gentle inclines and descents. Stretching through the park’s wooded areas and around Grenadier Pond, the trails provide stunning views of snow-covered trees and tranquil landscapes. High Park’s convenient location—just a short drive or subway ride from downtown Toronto—makes it one of the most popular cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. The park offers amenities like restrooms, parking, and nearby cafés, ensuring that skiers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For an urban adventure with a peaceful setting, High Park is among the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto.
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-338-0338
Taylor Creek Park
Taylor Creek Park offers an ideal getaway for cross country skiing, located in East York, just a short distance from downtown Toronto. This park is known for its serene and relatively quiet trails, making it perfect for skiers seeking an escape from the city’s hustle. The trails, which wind along the Taylor Massey Creek, are mostly flat and easy, providing an excellent experience for beginners and families. In winter, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered trees and frozen streams creating a peaceful environment for skiing. Amenities include parking areas, restrooms, and picnic spots, adding convenience for visitors. Taylor Creek Park stands out due to its less crowded atmosphere, offering a more private and relaxed skiing experience. For those seeking tranquil yet scenic cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto, Taylor Creek Park is a fantastic option.
Address: 260 Dawes Rd, East York, ON M4C 5C4, Canada
Contact: +1 416-392-8188
Tommy Thompson Park
Tommy Thompson Park, located on the Leslie Street Spit, offers one of the most unique cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. This park features a flat yet varied terrain that stretches along Lake Ontario, giving skiers unparalleled views of both the Toronto skyline and the lake’s icy waters. The trails are a mix of beginner and intermediate routes, making them perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely yet adventurous skiing experience. One of the standout features of Tommy Thompson Park is its abundant wildlife, particularly bird species, even in the winter months. This park’s relative seclusion, despite being close to downtown, creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels miles away from the urban core. Parking and rest areas are available, though the park’s true appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty and urban proximity, making it one of the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto.
Address: 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON M4M 3M2, Canada
Contact: +1 416-661-6600
Kortright Centre for Conservation
The Kortright Centre for Conservation is one of the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto for nature lovers. Located in Vaughan, just 40 minutes north of downtown Toronto, this park is renowned for its environmental education programs and stunning natural landscapes. In winter, Kortright transforms into a serene escape for cross country skiing enthusiasts. The trails here are relatively easy to moderate in difficulty, making them suitable for beginners as well as those looking for a relaxing ski. The well-maintained trails wind through forests and open fields, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. Kortright also offers amenities like restrooms, parking, and a visitor center with educational displays. The park’s unique focus on conservation adds a layer of awareness to your skiing adventure, making it one of the top cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto.
Address: 9550 Pine Valley Dr, Woodbridge, ON L4L 1A6, Canada
Contact: +1 905-832-2289
Albion Hills Conservation Park
Albion Hills Conservation Park, located in Caledon, is a top destination for those seeking more challenging cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. This park is known for its extensive trail network, offering more than 26 kilometers of groomed ski trails that cater to all skill levels. The trails range from easy routes for beginners to more advanced paths for seasoned skiers, featuring varied terrain, including hills and flat sections. Just under an hour from Toronto, Albion Hills offers a perfect day trip for cross country skiing enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. The park provides rental equipment, so visitors don’t need to bring their own gear, as well as restrooms, warming huts, and parking. With its scenic landscapes and well-groomed trails, Albion Hills is often considered one of Toronto’s best cross country skiing trails for outdoor adventure.
Address: 16500 Regional Rd 50, Caledon, ON L7E 3E7, Canada
Contact: +1 905-880-0227
Centennial Park
Centennial Park, located in Etobicoke, offers one of the most accessible cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto for those living in the western part of the city. This park is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities, including its relatively easy cross country skiing trails. The park features several kilometers of flat and gentle slopes, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxing ski. The trails loop around the park’s scenic areas, including forests and open fields. Centennial Park is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Toronto, making it a convenient option for locals. The park provides ample parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Its proximity to the city and beginner-friendly trails makes it the best cross country skiing trail in and around Toronto for those looking to enjoy a leisurely winter day outdoors.
Sunnybrook Park
Sunnybrook Park is a fantastic spot for cross country skiing, located in midtown Toronto, making it one of the most accessible cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. The park is known for its open spaces and scenic wooded areas, providing a tranquil environment for skiers. The trails here are mostly flat with gentle slopes, making them suitable for beginners and those looking for a leisurely skiing experience. The park is less crowded than some other Toronto trails, offering a peaceful skiing environment even on weekends. Sunnybrook Park is about 15 minutes from downtown Toronto, and its trails stretch along the Don River, providing scenic river views during your ski. Amenities include parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. The park’s serene atmosphere and central location make it one of the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto.
Address: 1132 Leslie St, Toronto, ON, Canada
Contact: +1 416-396-7378
Earl Bales Park
Earl Bales Park, located in North York, is a well-known recreational spot that transforms into a great skiing destination in winter. Its cross country skiing trails are a favorite for locals seeking convenient cross country skiing in and around Toronto. The park features a mix of flat and mildly hilly terrain, making it a great choice for both beginners and intermediate skiers. Earl Bales is particularly known for its varied trails and scenic winter landscapes. The park is located about 20 minutes from downtown Toronto, making it easily accessible for those living in the city. Earl Bales also offers ski rentals, restrooms, and ample parking, making it a convenient option for skiers. With its urban proximity and diverse trails, Earl Bales Park is considered one of the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto.
Address: 4169 Bathurst St, North York, ON M3H 3P7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-392-2489
Cedarvale Ravine
Cedarvale Ravine offers one of the most scenic and peaceful cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. Located near St. Clair Avenue West, this park is known for its beautiful ravine system, which provides skiers with a tranquil, forested escape from the urban landscape. The trails in Cedarvale Ravine are mostly flat, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed, scenic ski. The snow-covered paths wind through the ravine, offering views of towering trees and serene nature all around. While smaller and quieter than other parks, Cedarvale Ravine’s charm lies in its simplicity and peaceful atmosphere. There are no rentals or facilities on-site, but the park is easily accessible by public transport, making it a great option for a quick ski within the city. For skiers seeking a calm and scenic route, Cedarvale Ravine is a hidden gem among Toronto’s best cross country skiing trails.
Address: Toronto, ON M6C 1R4, Canada
Humber Valley Trail
The Humber Valley Trail is one of the most scenic cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto, following the Humber River as it meanders through lush valleys and forested areas. This trail is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, offering skiers a picturesque environment to enjoy their winter adventure. The trail spans several kilometers, making it ideal for both beginner and intermediate skiers, with mostly flat terrain and some gentle slopes. The Humber Valley Trail is located about 25 minutes from downtown Toronto and offers an easily accessible escape into nature. While there are no rental facilities or warming huts, parking is available at several entry points along the trail. The combination of river views, wooded landscapes, and accessible location makes this trail one of the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto for those looking to connect with nature.
Address: 7500 Castlederg Side Rd, Kleinburg Station, ON, Canada
Rouge National Urban Park
Rouge National Urban Park is a premier destination for cross country skiing, offering one of the most unique cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. Located about 40 minutes from downtown Toronto, Rouge is known for its vast natural landscapes, including wetlands, forests, and meadows, all of which make for a diverse and scenic skiing experience. The trails here cater to beginners and intermediate skiers, with mostly flat terrain and some gentle inclines. As Canada’s first national urban park, Rouge offers a blend of wilderness and city convenience, making it a top choice for skiers seeking a true outdoor adventure close to the city. Amenities include parking areas, restrooms, and marked trails for safe navigation. The park’s size and biodiversity make it one of the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto for those wanting to explore varied landscapes.
Address: 25 Zoo Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8, Canada
Contact: +1 416-264-2020
Morningside Park
Morningside Park, located in Scarborough, is one of the quieter and lesser-known cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto, perfect for skiers looking for a peaceful, uncrowded experience. The park features several kilometers of trails that wind through wooded areas and open spaces, offering beautiful views of the Highland Creek as it runs through the park. The terrain here is relatively flat, making it ideal for beginners and families. Morningside Park is just 30 minutes from downtown Toronto, making it a convenient option for a quick skiing getaway. While there are no ski rentals available, the park does offer parking and picnic areas, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a day of skiing. Its tranquil setting and natural beauty make Morningside Park a hidden gem among the top cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto for those seeking a relaxed skiing experience.
Address: 390 Morningside Ave, Scarborough, ON, Canada
Contact: +1 416-338-4386
Hardwood Ski and Bike
Hardwood Ski and Bike, located near Barrie, is one of the top destinations for cross country skiing in and around Toronto. Known for its extensive and well-maintained trail network, Hardwood offers over 40 kilometers of groomed trails for all skill levels. The terrain is diverse, ranging from easy, flat routes for beginners to more challenging trails with steep hills for advanced skiers. Located about 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, Hardwood Ski and Bike is an ideal day trip for winter sports enthusiasts. The facility provides excellent amenities, including ski rentals, lessons, and a warm chalet with a café to relax after a day on the trails. What sets Hardwood apart is its focus on offering a premier skiing experience with high-quality grooming and a variety of trail options, making it one of the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto.
Address: 402 Old Barrie Rd W, Oro Station, ON L0L 2E0, Canada
Contact: +1 705-487-3775
Dagmar Ski Resort
Dagmar Ski Resort, located in Uxbridge, is best known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. For even more winter fun, explore the top ski resorts near Toronto and discover thrilling adventures beyond the cross-country trails. Just an hour’s drive from the city, Dagmar offers a blend of well-groomed trails suitable for all levels, from beginners to more advanced skiers. The resort’s trail network features scenic paths that wind through forests and open spaces, with options ranging from flat, easy routes to more challenging hilly terrain. Dagmar Ski Resort also offers ski rentals, professional lessons, and a cozy lodge where visitors can warm up and enjoy refreshments. With its convenient location and excellent amenities, Dagmar is one of the best places to go cross country skiing in and around Toronto, making it a perfect choice for families, beginners, and intermediate skiers alike.
Address: 1220 Lake Ridge Rd, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4, Canada
Contact: +1 905-649-2002
Scenic Caves Nordic Centre
Scenic Caves Nordic Centre, located in the Blue Mountains, offers one of the most breathtaking cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto. Known for its stunning vistas and well-groomed trails, Scenic Caves is a top destination for both novice and experienced skiers. The park features over 27 kilometers of trails, with options ranging from gentle, flat routes for beginners to more challenging, hilly terrain for advanced skiers. Located about two hours from downtown Toronto, Scenic Caves offers a true escape into nature, with trails running through forests, across frozen creeks, and along the Niagara Escarpment, providing incredible winter views. The centre offers ski rentals, lessons, and a warm lodge with a café, making it an excellent spot for a full day of skiing. Its scenic beauty and diverse trail options make Scenic Caves one of the top cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto for a winter adventure.
Address: 260 Scenic Caves Rd, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0P2, Canada
Contact: +1 705-446-0256
Toronto’s Best Cross Country Skiing Trails
Toronto is home to several fantastic cross country skiing trails that offer easy access to nature without leaving the city.
- Among Toronto’s best cross country skiing trails, High Park stands out for its central location and scenic routes through forested areas and around Grenadier Pond. The park’s gentle terrain makes it a popular choice for beginners and casual skiers.
- Another excellent option is Taylor Creek Park, located in East York, known for its serene, flat trails that follow the picturesque Taylor Massey Creek.
- For those seeking a unique urban skiing experience, Tommy Thompson Park offers stunning views of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario as you glide along its relatively flat waterfront trails.
These trails provide varying levels of difficulty, catering to all skill levels, and are easily accessible by public transport or car, making them the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto for city residents and visitors alike.
Things to Know Before Going Cross Country Skiing
Before heading out to explore the cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto, it’s essential to be well-prepared. For beginners, the necessary equipment includes a pair of cross country skis, poles, and proper winter attire. While experienced skiers may bring their own gear, renting skis is a convenient option at some locations like Albion Hills and Hardwood Ski and Bike, which offer rental services. Before hitting the trails, make sure to gear up by visiting the best ski and snowboard stores in Toronto for all your equipment needs.
Weather and trail conditions can vary, so it’s important to check the forecast before heading out. Prepare for your cross-country skiing adventure by checking out the top Canadian winter boots to keep you comfortable in the snow. Ideal conditions for cross country skiing include fresh snow and mild temperatures. Make sure to dress in layers to stay warm while avoiding overheating. Safety is also key—stick to marked trails, be mindful of changing weather, and carry a small pack with essentials like water and snacks. Stay warm and stylish on the trails by exploring the best outerwear brands in Canada that offer both sustainability and comfort.
Lastly, ensure that your equipment is suited to the trail difficulty and your experience level. Whether you’re renting or bringing your own, being well-prepared will help you enjoy the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto safely.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto offers a variety of cross country skiing trails within the city and nearby areas, catering to both beginners and advanced skiers.
- Popular spots like High Park, Taylor Creek Park, and Tommy Thompson Park are accessible and provide scenic, beginner-friendly trails.
- Albion Hills, Hardwood Ski and Bike, and Scenic Caves Nordic Centre offer more challenging trails just outside Toronto, perfect for day trips.
- Before skiing, it’s important to have the necessary equipment, which can be rented at many of the parks, and to check weather conditions for optimal skiing experiences.
- Safety tips include sticking to marked trails, dressing in layers, and being mindful of winter conditions while skiing.
- Whether you’re looking for an urban skiing experience or a nature escape, Toronto’s best cross country skiing trails provide a range of options for all levels.
- Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable cross country skiing adventure across the best cross country skiing trails in and around Toronto.
FAQs
- Where can I rent cross country skiing equipment in and around Toronto?
Equipment rentals are available at places like Albion Hills Conservation Park and Hardwood Ski and Bike. - Do I need to bring my own skis to cross country ski in Toronto?
It depends. Some trails require you to bring your own, while places like Albion Hills and Dagmar Ski Resort offer rentals. - What are the best scenic cross country skiing trails around Toronto?
Scenic Caves Nordic Centre and Tommy Thompson Park offer some of the most scenic views. - Which cross country skiing trails are close to public transport in Toronto?
High Park and Tommy Thompson Park are easily accessible via public transportation. - Can I take my family cross country skiing in Toronto?
Yes, family-friendly trails can be found at places like Centennial Park and Sunnybrook Park.