Wasaga is a popular four-season destination with much to offer. From beach activities in summer to nearby ski hills in winter, it’s a venerable paradise for the outdoorsman in everyone and a place beloved by families for generations.
For our future River’s Edge homeowners, there are many ways to experience the spectacular beauty of the region, including the wealth of hiking and cycling trails throughout Wasaga and nearby Collingwood. If you have a thirst for activity and adventure, take a look at our top 5 hiking trails in Wasaga below:
Blueberry Plains Trail
Difficulty: Easy | Average time: 1hr, 15 min | Length: 4 km
This excellent four-season trail is one of the area’s most traversed and noted for its picturesque views and unchallenging route. It’s great for novice hikers as well as budding birders and cross-country skiers in winter. The trail is short and generally easy as well as well-maintained for easy footing. Hikers can extend their route to Pine Trail very easily. Experience Blueberry Plains in the beauty of a Wasaga autumn, with its vibrant and unforgettable colours.
Nottawasaga Lookout Provincial Nature Reserve
Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Average time: 2 hr (depending on the trail taken within the reserve) | Length: n/a
A great way to explore the area, the network of trails within the Nottawasaga Lookout Provincial Nature Reserve come with spectacular natural views and a variety of sights within. Trails are well marked, and the paths are clear, making it easy and fun for kids but still challenging for moderate hikers (those with limited mobility may find the cave trails more difficult). Hikers can discover the Singhampton Caves if they’re feeling particularly adventurous but the views of the region through the reserve’s elevated trails are unrivaled.
Ganaraska Trail
Difficulty: Easy | Average time: 1hr, 18 min | Length: 4.8 km
Discover this well-known Ganaraska Trail within Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, stretching across the Bruce Trail. Open year-round, hikers can experience the trail in two ways: a shorter, nearly 5 km hike that easily winds you through the park and out once more or an extended portion of the trail through Wasaga Beach (for more experienced hikers). Ganaraska is quiet and beautiful and open to leashed dogs, with a trailhead leading you through the beach and into the woods for the best of both worlds.
Monument Hill Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Average time: 2hr, 10 min | Length: 8.7 km
For hikers looking for quality exercise, Monument Hill is a great way to spend an early spring morning. Access the trail via Klondike Park Road and experience a mix of unusual terrains, including groomed pathways, sandy dunes and many short inclines (you are sure to break a sweat). You will see plenty of different species of birds if you hike in early in the day and the trail is open to dogs (leashed only). Best experienced in the spring, summer and fall months.
Carly Patterson Memorial Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Average time: 2hr, 40 min | Length: 10.8 km
One of Wasaga’s most popular trail loops for hikers, runners and cyclists, the Carly Patterson Trail Loop is a great mixture of both walking trails and residential roads. Its forested portion is creekside, with fluctuating water levels depending on the season and plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife. This trail is peaceful and serene for hikers looking for solitude and a lengthier and slightly more challenging hike through the area.
Adventure is on the horizon and there are many ways to experience the beauty of Ontario’s natural sights. For weekenders travelling for the thrill of a good hike or homeowners at River’s Edge spending an afternoon in the canopied forests of their home, this is the best way to discover and explore this remarkable province in which we live.
Note: All difficulty levels, length and timing info provided by AllTrails.com*