Discover the best bike rides and cycling trails in Toronto! From the scenic Waterfront Trail to the lush Don Valley paths, find your perfect ride with our guide to the city’s top routes.

Toronto is a city of hidden ravines, stunning shorelines, and vibrant neighbourhoods—and the best way to see it all is on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge or a casual rider searching for a scenic Sunday cruise, Toronto’s network of bike paths has something for everyone.

Here at ButterBikes.com, we believe in the simple joy of a great bike ride. That’s why we’ve curated this list of the best and most beautiful bike rides our city has to offer. So, pump up your tires, grab your helmet, and let’s explore Toronto! 🚲

1. The Martin Goodman Trail / Waterfront Trail

Location: Runs along the shore of Lake Ontario, from Humber Bay Arch Bridge in the west to the Rouge River in the east.
Length: Approximately 30km of paved, continuous trail within Toronto’s boundaries.
Difficulty: Easy. Mostly flat and well-maintained.
Best for: Everyone! Families, casual riders, and tourists looking for iconic skyline views.

You can’t talk about Toronto bike rides without starting here. The Martin Goodman Trail is the city’s crown jewel, offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. Start your journey at Humber Bay Shores Park in the west, where you can marvel at the iconic Humber Bay Arch Bridge. Pedal east past bustling marinas, sandy beaches like Sunnyside and Sugar Beach, and vibrant hubs like Harbourfront Centre. This trail is perfect for a leisurely ride, a picnic stop, or simply soaking in the best waterfront scenery the city has to offer.

2. The Don Valley Trails (Lower Don)

Location: Starts near the Evergreen Brick Works and follows the Don River south to the Waterfront Trail.
Length: About 10km one way.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Mostly flat with some gentle inclines.
Best for: Nature lovers and anyone seeking a green escape from the city buzz.

Escape into a lush, green oasis without ever leaving the city. The Lower Don River Trail is a paved path that winds through a dense forest, making you feel worlds away from the downtown core. The trail is shaded by a beautiful tree canopy, making it a perfect choice for a hot summer day. It connects several key parks and attractions, including Riverdale Park and the Evergreen Brick Works—a fantastic spot to stop for a coffee and a snack. The trail eventually connects to the Waterfront Trail, allowing for a longer, more diverse ride.

3. The Toronto Islands

Location: A short ferry ride from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at Bay Street and Queens Quay.
Length: The main loop around the islands is about 14km
Difficulty: Easy. Completely flat and car-free.
Best for: A perfect day trip, family outings, and photographers seeking the ultimate skyline shot.

Ready for a mini-vacation? Hop on the ferry to the Toronto Islands. This car-free paradise is a cyclist’s dream. With smooth, flat paths, you can easily explore all three main islands: Centre, Ward’s, and Algonquin. Cruise past quaint cottages, beautiful gardens, and sandy beaches (including the clothing-optional Hanlan’s Point Beach). The real showstopper is the view of the Toronto skyline from across the water—it’s simply unbeatable. Pack a lunch, and make a day of it!

4. Humber River Recreational Trail

Location: Follows the Humber River from the waterfront north into the city.
Length: Over 15km of paved paths.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Mostly flat with some rolling hills further north.
Best for: History buffs, bird watchers, and those looking for a long, peaceful ride.

Follow the historic Humber River on this serene and scenic trail. As a designated Canadian Heritage River, the path is dotted with plaques detailing its rich Indigenous and historical significance. The trail takes you through beautiful parklands like Etienne Brulé Park and James Gardens. It’s a fantastic spot for bird watching and spotting salmon running upstream in the fall. The path is well-paved and offers a mix of shaded woodsy sections and open parkland.

5. Taylor Creek Trail

Location: East York, running from Don Mills Road to Victoria Park Avenue.
Length: Approximately 8km one way.
Difficulty: Easy.
Best for: A quiet, shaded ride and connecting to longer routes in the Don Valley network.

This is one of Toronto’s most beloved local trails. Taylor Creek Park offers a wide, paved path that meanders alongside the creek, entirely enveloped by nature. It’s a relatively short but incredibly pleasant ride, perfect for a quick morning pedal or an evening escape. The trail is part of the larger Don Valley trail system, so you can easily extend your ride by connecting to the Lower Don Trail for a longer adventure.

6. The Beltline Trail

Location: A midtown trail running from the Allen Road near Eglinton West station to the Moore Park Ravine.
Length: 9km
Difficulty: Easy. Flat, wide path.
Best for: Neighbourhood exploring and a glimpse into Toronto’s railway history.

Once a commuter railway line, the Beltline Trail is now a fantastic multi-use path that cuts through the heart of midtown Toronto. This wide, flat trail takes you through some of the city’s loveliest residential neighbourhoods and green spaces, like the beautiful Mount Pleasant Cemetery. It’s an excellent way to travel east-west across the city while avoiding traffic. The trail offers a unique perspective on the city’s urban geography and history.

7. High Park Loop

Location: High Park, in Toronto’s west end.
Length: The main road loop is about 5km
Difficulty: Moderate. Contains some challenging hills.
Best for: Cyclists looking for a bit of a workout and enjoying a beautiful park setting.

High Park isn’t just for cherry blossoms! 🌸 The park’s paved road loops are a favourite among local cyclists for training and fitness rides. The hilly terrain, especially the climb up “Spring Road,” offers a great challenge. On weekends, the roads are often closed to cars, making it even more cyclist-friendly. After your laps, you can cool down by exploring the rest of the park, visiting the zoo, or relaxing by Grenadier Pond.

Tips for Cycling in Toronto

Get a Good Bike: Don’t have your own bike? No problem! Grab one at our shop. We have convenient and reliable options to get you rolling on these trails.
Safety First: Always wear a helmet. Use bike lights if you’re riding at dawn or dusk, and be sure to use a bell to alert pedestrians on shared paths.
Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle, especially on warmer days. Many of these trails have public water fountains available during the summer months.
Best Time to Ride: The best cycling season in Toronto is from late April to October. Autumn offers spectacular fall colours, especially on the Don Valley and Humber River trails.

Get out there and discover the beauty of Toronto from the best seat in the house—your bike saddle! Happy riding!

Toronto’s Best Bike Rides: 7 Scenic Cycling Trails to Explore