Summer is the time of year to discover the wonder of nearby conservation areas, beaches, and public parks. Don’t let the season of adventure pass you by without checking out these eye-opening outdoor experiences. Going on a brief getaway can be the perfect way to triumph over the 9-5 blues and awaken your audacious spirit.
We’ve put together a short guide on some of the must-try outdoor experiences of Summer 2019. Each destination has a unique offering of nature, discovery, and history that will leave you recharged and excited for your next excursion.
Hilton Falls Conservation Area
Located just 45 minutes from Toronto, this picturesque collection of trails, forest, and waterfalls provides those who enter this inviting space with a sense of accomplishment and tranquility. Visit for a light jog on one of the extensive trails that make up this 1600-acre area or bring your smartphone to capture the natural beauty of the many waterfalls and teeming wildlife.
Scenic Caves and Adventures offers more of a tourist-friendly exploring experience along the Georgian Bay coast. This popular destination in the heart of blue mountain village offers unique hiking opportunities with caves, zip lining, and a suspension bridge sure to please all thrill seekers. Your adventurous spirit will be rewarded with a breathtaking view atop limestone cliff edges overlooking Georgian Bay. Make sure to budget some extra time to take advantage of the mini-putt course on your way out!
Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail
Look to this scenic trail if you’d like to capture one of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Muskoka. Besides a stunning view, recent donations recently contributed to a 120-acre township park to welcome visitors and families. The trail itself is short but can be challenging, so be sure to take advantage of the many park benches scattered around the trail. Enjoy the views of exposed pink rock from Huckleberry Rock Cut to witness some of the oldest rock on the planet.
Located in the tiny village of Eugenia, this wonderful conservation area consists of 23 hectares of Niagara escarpment and upland forests. You’ll quickly find views of 30 metre high waterfalls. You won’t find a long-distance challenge here, instead, you’ll find a pleasant aesthetic journey with some of the nicest waterfalls found in Ontario. The trail is also just a minute’s drive away from Hoggs falls, home to another short but rewarding 1 km trail and some great fishing spots.
Duncan Escarpment Provincial Park
Home of the popular Duncan Caves Trail, the park is located along Georgian Bay’s south shore near Collingwood’s blue mountain village. This park offers a variety of caves due to gravity pulling rock formations away from the Niagara escarpment. You’ll find a variety of open fields, waterfalls, caves and crevices, as well as scenic views in one of the most ecological diverse trail systems in Ontario.
