Story by Martin Lortz
Ontario’s landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning. From towering cliffs over Lake Superior to dense hardwood forests and cascading waterfalls, the province offers countless chances to lace up your boots and hit the trail. For those seeking to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of solitude, these five trails showcase some of the very best hiking experiences Ontario has to offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just looking for a rewarding day in nature, each trail on this list promises breathtaking scenery, distinctive features, and moments you’ll remember long after leaving the woods behind.
1. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park – Climb the Giant!
If there’s a bucket-list hike in Ontario, climbing the Giant in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay is a top contender.
Known for its dramatic cliffs that resemble a giant lying on its back, this park is a dream destination for hikers. The Top of the Giant Trail is the most iconic. It’s not a leisurely walk, expect about 22 km round trip if you complete the whole route, but the reward is incredible.
The hike starts gently along the Kabeyun Trail before branching off toward the Giant itself. If you are comfortable cycling on a bumpy road, you can bike the first half of the route.
As you climb higher, the forest clears and the air grows cooler with altitude. The reward awaits at the summit: a breathtaking view from the top of the Sleeping Giant’s knees.
Here, you’ll stand on one of Ontario’s highest cliffs, overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Superior. On a clear day, the water sparkles like glass, stretching all the way to the horizon.
This hike requires stamina and preparation; bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers. However, for those willing to put in the effort, it’s an unforgettable adventure and one of the top hikes in all of Canada.
Trail details:
2. Mississagi Provincial Park – Solitude in the Wilderness
For those seeking peace and quiet away from crowds, Mississagi Provincial Park, just north of Elliot Lake, is a hidden treasure. Often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations, this park offers rugged scenery and genuine wilderness hiking.
One of the top trails here is the Semiwite Lake Trail, a loop that circumnavigates the lake and showcases the park’s untouched environment. This easy trail winds through hardwood and conifer forests, crosses rocky outcrops, and provides frequent views of the water. In autumn, the forest bursts with vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors, making it one of the most stunning fall hikes in Ontario.
If you’re seeking more of a challenge, the Helenbar Lookout Trail offers sweeping views of the surrounding highlands. From the lookout, you’ll see rolling hills and numerous lakes, a reminder of how wild and pristine northern Ontario remains.
Mississagi’s trails are well-marked but can feel quite remote, so it’s wise to hike prepared. The sense of solitude enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for hikers wanting to escape the daily hustle.
Trail details (Semiwite Lake Trail):
3. Robertson Cliffs Trail – A Hidden Northern Ontario Treasure
Located just outside Sault Ste. Marie, the Robertson Cliffs Trail is one of Ontario’s most rewarding short hikes. Managed by the Algoma Highlands Conservancy, this trail isn’t within a provincial park, but it rivals many in scenery and impact.
The hike starts through a mixed forest of maple and birch, with a steady climb. After about 3 km, you’ll reach the cliffs themselves, where the landscape opens up. From the top, you can see miles of rugged Algoma wilderness, with rolling hills and dense forests stretching to the horizon.
In autumn, the view is stunning as the canopy below bursts into a fiery kaleidoscope of colors. Even in summer, the lush greens create a calming, seemingly endless landscape. The cliffs are also popular among birdwatchers, as raptors and other birds often soar overhead.
While not as long as Sleeping Giant, Robertson Cliffs offers a rewarding hike with moderate effort. It’s also dog-friendly, making it a great option if you’re exploring with a four-legged companion.
Trail details:
4. Orphan Lake Trail – Superior Beauty in Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park is famous for its rugged landscapes and pristine shorelines, and the Orphan Lake Trail showcases the best of both. This 8 km loop offers a great mix of forest hiking, scenic lookouts, and lakeside serenity.
The trail starts by winding through the forest before climbing to a lookout with sweeping views of Orphan Lake. Before descending to the shoreline of Lake Superior, look for a side trail that will take you to spectacular lookouts over Lake Superior. Once on the pebble beach, you can walk along the rugged coast and listen to the waves crash against the rocks. Few hikes in Ontario combine inland and coastal scenery like this.
The loop continues through diverse terrain, providing glimpses of wildlife and, depending on the season, wildflowers or vibrant fall colors. Being a loop, you’ll never see the same scene twice, making it a lively and engaging trail.
The Orphan Lake Trail is a solid half-day hike that strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the raw beauty of Lake Superior without the need for a multi-day backcountry trip.
Trail details:
5. A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail – Waterfall Wonders North of Sudbury
Named after Group of Seven painter A.Y. Jackson, who immortalized many northern Ontario landscapes in his artwork, the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail north of Sudbury is renowned for waterfalls and scenic views.
The highlight of this short but scenic trail is Onaping High Falls, a cascading waterfall that drops nearly 55 meters into the valley below. The lookout offers an incredible view of the falls, especially in spring when water levels are high or in autumn when the surrounding forest is vibrant with color.
The trail system here is relatively short, with loops ranging from 1 to 2 km, making it suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed outing. That said, sections of the trail do become increasingly rugged, involving scrambling over large rocky outcrops and around big boulders.
Interpretive panels along the trail share stories about the area’s geology, history, and artistic importance. While not as demanding as some other trails on this list, the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail reminds us that beauty often comes in smaller, more accessible packages. It’s an ideal stop for a road trip break or a quick nature escape near Sudbury.
Trail details:
Tips for Hiking Ontario’s Trails
NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Destination Ontario
Ontario’s landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning. From towering cliffs over Lake Superior to dense hardwood forests and cascading waterfalls, the province offers countless chances to lace up your boots and hit the trail. For those seeking to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of solitude, these five trails showcase some of the very best hiking experiences Ontario has to offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just looking for a rewarding day in nature, each trail on this list promises breathtaking scenery, distinctive features, and moments you’ll remember long after leaving the woods behind.
1. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park – Climb the Giant!
If there’s a bucket-list hike in Ontario, climbing the Giant in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay is a top contender.
Known for its dramatic cliffs that resemble a giant lying on its back, this park is a dream destination for hikers. The Top of the Giant Trail is the most iconic. It’s not a leisurely walk, expect about 22 km round trip if you complete the whole route, but the reward is incredible.
The hike starts gently along the Kabeyun Trail before branching off toward the Giant itself. If you are comfortable cycling on a bumpy road, you can bike the first half of the route.
As you climb higher, the forest clears and the air grows cooler with altitude. The reward awaits at the summit: a breathtaking view from the top of the Sleeping Giant’s knees.
Here, you’ll stand on one of Ontario’s highest cliffs, overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Superior. On a clear day, the water sparkles like glass, stretching all the way to the horizon.
This hike requires stamina and preparation; bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers. However, for those willing to put in the effort, it’s an unforgettable adventure and one of the top hikes in all of Canada.
Trail details:
- Distance: ~22 km round trip
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Stunning Lake Superior views, towering cliffs, bucket-list Ontario hike
- Info: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
2. Mississagi Provincial Park – Solitude in the Wilderness
For those seeking peace and quiet away from crowds, Mississagi Provincial Park, just north of Elliot Lake, is a hidden treasure. Often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations, this park offers rugged scenery and genuine wilderness hiking.
One of the top trails here is the Semiwite Lake Trail, a loop that circumnavigates the lake and showcases the park’s untouched environment. This easy trail winds through hardwood and conifer forests, crosses rocky outcrops, and provides frequent views of the water. In autumn, the forest bursts with vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors, making it one of the most stunning fall hikes in Ontario.
If you’re seeking more of a challenge, the Helenbar Lookout Trail offers sweeping views of the surrounding highlands. From the lookout, you’ll see rolling hills and numerous lakes, a reminder of how wild and pristine northern Ontario remains.
Mississagi’s trails are well-marked but can feel quite remote, so it’s wise to hike prepared. The sense of solitude enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for hikers wanting to escape the daily hustle.
Trail details (Semiwite Lake Trail):
- Distance: ~12 km loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Quiet wilderness, lake views, stunning fall colours
- Info: Mississagi Provincial Park
3. Robertson Cliffs Trail – A Hidden Northern Ontario Treasure
Located just outside Sault Ste. Marie, the Robertson Cliffs Trail is one of Ontario’s most rewarding short hikes. Managed by the Algoma Highlands Conservancy, this trail isn’t within a provincial park, but it rivals many in scenery and impact.
The hike starts through a mixed forest of maple and birch, with a steady climb. After about 3 km, you’ll reach the cliffs themselves, where the landscape opens up. From the top, you can see miles of rugged Algoma wilderness, with rolling hills and dense forests stretching to the horizon.
In autumn, the view is stunning as the canopy below bursts into a fiery kaleidoscope of colors. Even in summer, the lush greens create a calming, seemingly endless landscape. The cliffs are also popular among birdwatchers, as raptors and other birds often soar overhead.
While not as long as Sleeping Giant, Robertson Cliffs offers a rewarding hike with moderate effort. It’s also dog-friendly, making it a great option if you’re exploring with a four-legged companion.
Trail details:
- Distance: ~5 km round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Stunning cliff-top views, brilliant fall colours, less crowded trail
- Info: Robertson Cliffs Trail
4. Orphan Lake Trail – Superior Beauty in Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park is famous for its rugged landscapes and pristine shorelines, and the Orphan Lake Trail showcases the best of both. This 8 km loop offers a great mix of forest hiking, scenic lookouts, and lakeside serenity.
The trail starts by winding through the forest before climbing to a lookout with sweeping views of Orphan Lake. Before descending to the shoreline of Lake Superior, look for a side trail that will take you to spectacular lookouts over Lake Superior. Once on the pebble beach, you can walk along the rugged coast and listen to the waves crash against the rocks. Few hikes in Ontario combine inland and coastal scenery like this.
The loop continues through diverse terrain, providing glimpses of wildlife and, depending on the season, wildflowers or vibrant fall colors. Being a loop, you’ll never see the same scene twice, making it a lively and engaging trail.
The Orphan Lake Trail is a solid half-day hike that strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the raw beauty of Lake Superior without the need for a multi-day backcountry trip.
Trail details:
- Distance: ~8 km loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Inland lake views, Lake Superior shoreline, loop trail with diverse terrain
- Info: Orphan Lake Trail
5. A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail – Waterfall Wonders North of Sudbury
Named after Group of Seven painter A.Y. Jackson, who immortalized many northern Ontario landscapes in his artwork, the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail north of Sudbury is renowned for waterfalls and scenic views.
The highlight of this short but scenic trail is Onaping High Falls, a cascading waterfall that drops nearly 55 meters into the valley below. The lookout offers an incredible view of the falls, especially in spring when water levels are high or in autumn when the surrounding forest is vibrant with color.
The trail system here is relatively short, with loops ranging from 1 to 2 km, making it suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed outing. That said, sections of the trail do become increasingly rugged, involving scrambling over large rocky outcrops and around big boulders.
Interpretive panels along the trail share stories about the area’s geology, history, and artistic importance. While not as demanding as some other trails on this list, the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail reminds us that beauty often comes in smaller, more accessible packages. It’s an ideal stop for a road trip break or a quick nature escape near Sudbury.
Trail details:
- Distance: ~1–2 km
- Difficulty: Easy/ Moderate
- Highlights: Onaping High Falls, fall colours, connection to Group of Seven art
- Info: Y. Jackson Lookout Trail
Tips for Hiking Ontario’s Trails
- Plan ahead: Some trails, like Sleeping Giant, are long and remote—make sure you’re prepared with maps, water, food, and the right gear.
- Check the season: Fall is spectacular on these trails, but spring runoff and bugs can also affect your experience.
- Respect the wilderness: Pack out what you pack in, stick to marked trails, and respect wildlife.
- Layer up: Ontario’s weather can change quickly, especially near Lake Superior.
NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Destination Ontario
