Explore Scenic Hiking Trails in Ontario With Your Dog

From the rugged cliffs of Lake Superior and the forests of Algonquin to hidden waterfalls, ancient canyons and the Canadian Shield, discover Ontario's most spectacular dog-friendly hiking adventures.

Ontario is home to more than 330 provincial parks, breathtaking stretches of the Canadian Shield, thousands of lakes and some of Canada's most iconic hiking destinations. Whether you're chasing waterfalls in Hamilton, climbing granite lookouts in Killarney, exploring Algonquin's wilderness or discovering hidden gems along the Bruce Trail, Ontario offers unforgettable adventures for every dog and every hiking style.

This collection blends Ontario's famous bucket-list hikes with quieter hidden gems that deserve a place on every adventurer's list.

Before you go: Trail conditions, wildlife activity, seasonal closures and park regulations can change throughout the year. Always check current trail conditions before leaving home and keep dogs leashed where required.

Our Paw Wise Adventure Ratings

1. Crack Trail

Killarney Provincial Park

6

Arguably Ontario's most iconic hike, The Crack rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views over the white quartzite ridges and countless blue lakes that make Killarney world famous.

Best For: Bucket-list hikes • Canadian Shield • Photography

2. Lion's Head Lookout Trail

Bruce Peninsula

6

Towering limestone cliffs overlooking Georgian Bay make Lion's Head one of Ontario's most spectacular viewpoints. The turquoise water rivals destinations anywhere in Canada.

Best For: Georgian Bay views • Cliffside hiking • Sunrise photography

3. Centennial Ridges Trail

Algonquin Provincial Park

5

Offering one incredible lookout after another, Centennial Ridges showcases Algonquin's endless forests, sparkling lakes and rolling hills.

Best For: Fall colours • Wildlife • Long day hikes

4. Cup and Saucer Trail

Manitoulin Island

6

One of Ontario's most rewarding hikes, the Cup and Saucer Trail climbs to dramatic cliffs overlooking the world's largest freshwater island.

Best For: Island adventures • Scenic overlooks • Summer hiking

5. Top of the Giant Trail

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

6

One of Canada's greatest hikes. Standing atop cliffs rising more than 250 metres above Lake Superior is an unforgettable experience.

Best For: Epic views • Experienced hikers • Lake Superior

6. Dundas Peak via Spencer Gorge

Hamilton

5

Hamilton's waterfalls and escarpment scenery have become famous for good reason. Dundas Peak offers spectacular views and is an excellent destination close to Toronto.

Best For: Waterfalls • Weekend adventures • Escarpment views

7. Silver Peak Trail

Killarney Provincial Park

5

Ontario's highest point within Killarney Provincial Park rewards hikers with incredible panoramic views across white quartzite mountains and pristine lakes.

Best For: Summit hikes • Experienced dogs • Photography

8. Booth's Rock Trail

Algonquin Provincial Park

6

A shorter alternative to Centennial Ridges, Booth's Rock offers incredible lake views, fascinating logging history and beautiful forest scenery.

Best For: Families • Scenic viewpoints • History

9. Lookout Trail

Killbear Provincial Park

5

A beautiful Canadian Shield hike featuring windswept pines, smooth granite and panoramic views across Georgian Bay.

Best For: Families • Georgian Bay • Sunset photography

10. Mazukama Falls Trail

Lake Superior Provincial Park

A hidden gem along Ontario's north shore, Mazukama Falls winds through rugged boreal forest before reaching a beautiful cascading waterfall.

Best For: Hidden waterfalls • Quiet adventures • Northern Ontario

Hidden Gems Worth Discovering

Looking to explore beyond Ontario's most popular hikes? These hidden treasures deserve a place on your bucket list:

• 🌊 Sea Lion Trail (Lake Superior Provincial Park) — Dramatic Lake Superior cliffs and coastal scenery.

• 🏞️ Mizzy Lake Trail (Algonquin Provincial Park) — Excellent wildlife viewing and peaceful lakes.

• 🌲 Chikanishing Trail (Killarney Provincial Park) — One of Ontario's most underrated shoreline hikes.

• 💦 High Falls Trail (Pigeon River Provincial Park) — Beautiful waterfalls near the Manitoba border.

• 🌅 Bon Echo Cliff Top Trails — Massive Mazinaw Rock cliffs rising above crystal-clear water.

Hiking Safely With Your Dog

Before every Ontario adventure:

• 🐾 Keep your dog leashed where required.

• 🐻 Be aware of black bears and moose in northern parks.

• 💧 Carry extra drinking water.

• 🪨 Watch footing on wet Canadian Shield rock.

• 🦟 Bring insect protection during mosquito and tick season.

• 🩹 Pack a canine first-aid kit.

• 🌲 Leave no trace and respect wildlife habitats.

Plan Your Next Ontario Adventure With Paw Rewards

Every hike is another opportunity to create unforgettable memories together.

With the Paw Rewards app, you can:

• 🐾 Discover Ontario's best dog-friendly hiking trails.

• 📍 Find nearby waterfalls, parks and scenic lookouts.

• 🎯 Complete Paw Quests while you explore.

• 🏆 Earn Treats for every adventure.

• 📸 Capture your favourite moments.

• 🇨🇦 Build your dog's adventure story across Canada.

Whether you're exploring Algonquin's forests, standing atop the cliffs of Killarney or hiking beside the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay, Ontario is filled with unforgettable adventures waiting to be discovered