The Halal Wayfarer

🌿 My 3 Favorite Hiking Spots in Etobicoke

Living in Etobicoke, one of the best perks is being so close to incredible nature without having to leave the city. Whether you’re looking for peaceful lake views, dense greenery, or a casual urban hike, Etobicoke has a bit of everything.

Here are my top 3 favorite hiking spots in the area — places I keep going back to when I need a breath of fresh air, a long walk, or just some quiet time outdoors.

1. Humber Bay Shores Park

Lakefront views, wildlife, and skyline sunsets

If you're into waterfront walks with stunning views of the Toronto skyline, Humber Bay Shores Park is a must. This park hugs the shore of Lake Ontario and features a mix of wide paved paths and more natural areas, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and take it all in.

Why I love it:

• One word: sunsets — best in the city, hands down

• Great for both long hikes and relaxed strolls

• You’ll almost always spot swans, ducks, and maybe even a heron or two

• Close to great cafes if you want to grab a coffee after your walk

Whether I’m walking solo with a podcast or out with friends, this is my go-to for some fresh lake air and nature therapy.

2. Etobicoke Valley Park

A quiet, forested escape in the middle of suburbia

Etobicoke Valley Park is a hidden gem that many people drive past without even realizing it's there. The trails wind along Etobicoke Creek, giving you the feeling that you’re deep in the woods—even though you're still in the city.

Why it’s a favorite:

• Secluded, peaceful, and rarely crowded

• The creek makes for a calming soundtrack to your hike

• In autumn, it transforms into a tunnel of color

• Great for both hiking and biking

This is the kind of park that feels like a real escape. You won’t find food trucks or big signs here — just trails, trees, and the kind of quiet that’s hard to find in the city.

3. Étienne Brûlé Park

Historic charm meets riverside serenity

Nestled along the Humber River, Étienne Brûlé Park is one of those places that combines natural beauty with a bit of local history. The trails here connect with the larger Humber River Trail system, making it perfect for longer hikes or even a whole day of exploring.

What I love about it:

• You can follow the river almost the whole way

• Beautiful stone bridges and historic spots

• Great place to spot birds and even the occasional deer

• Salmon run!!

I like starting here and heading north or south along the river, depending on my mood. It’s perfect for a weekend morning when you want to walk and think, or just be surrounded by nature.

Final Thoughts

Etobicoke has so much to offer when it comes to urban hiking, and these three parks are proof that you don’t need to drive hours out of town to enjoy nature. Whether it’s lakefront trails, forested escapes, or riverside walks, Humber Bay Shores Park, Etobicoke Valley Park, and Étienne Brûlé Park have become my go-to spots — and I think they might become yours, too.

If you’ve got a favorite hiking trail in the area that I missed, I’d love to hear about it. Always down to explore something new!