4 Fun Day Trips Near Toronto

Published March 12th, 2023

If you’re looking for some delightful day trip ideas just outside of the Toronto area, here are four optimal options that are family friendly.

Wonderful Waterfalls in Ancaster

Less than an hour west of the city is the wonderful world of waterfalls, housed in the Hamilton area. There’s dozens to experience but if you want to double down on one trip, Tiffany Falls and Sherman Falls pair well.
Start with Tiffany Falls and if you’re of a certain age, play “I Think We’re Alone Now” during the closing stretch of the drive.
The parking lot comes up quickly so keep an eye on your GPS as you approach. Parking is a flat $5.00 and absolutely worth it for the experience.
Once parked, you’ll stroll for about 10 to 15 minutes through the grounds, across two small bridges and reach a raised viewing platform where you can gaze upon the waterfall as it cascades against the backdrop of bedrock exposures. The 21 metre cascade waterfall makes for a great screen background on your digital device.
As it’s a short walk from the car, it’s idea for kids and you won’t get the “I’m tired…carry me, are we there yet?” choruses.
Fun fact: Tiffany Falls is named after Dr. Oliver Tiffany, the first doctor in the area.

Drive a few minutes north and you’ll find yourself at the scenic and serene Sherman Falls.
You’ll have to park for the same $5.00 (again, worth it) and walk about five minutes (close to 500 metres) to reach your destination.
Located on private property, the owners have graciously allowed the public to experience the area so long as you’re respectful and leave exactly what you arrived with.
It’s a one to two minute walk from the time you arrive until you reach the 17 metre-high curtain waterfall that flows from Ancaster Creek.
The bridge allows a broad view and works well for panoramic pictures.
If you go alone, the tranquility is heavenly as the water being pulled by gravity and striking the rocks below creates a sense of calm and peace.
If you go with friends/family/a partner, the natural backdrop makes for quite the picture.

The Screaming Tunnel & The Shoe Tree in Niagara-On-The-Lake

The arched stone tunnel is filled with folklore of a tragic tale about young girl who perished in the tunnel, and who’s dying screams can allegedly be heard today.
If you’re easily spooked, plan your visit while there’s light in the sky.
The 125 metre limestone brick tunnel is beneath the Grand Trunk railroad tracks and while the bookends of the tunnel are tattooed with graffiti, it still makes for artsy urban pictures that’ll garner a few likes on your social media feed.
If walking 125 metres isn’t enough for you, the end of the tunnel leads to a portion of the Bruce Trail, where you can boost your step count.

This peculiar attraction is exactly what it looks like; a tree with shoes nailed/screwed in it. There are shoes, ski boots, ice skates and flip flops. No word on who owns it or who created it.

The Ganaraska Forest

Get your favourite driving playlist cued up and head east on the 401 for about 75 minutes to Clarington to the wonders of the Ganaraska Forest. One of the most popular spots in the country for biking, plus it boasts remarkable walking, hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails. There’s over 11,000 acres of adventure to be found so remember to bring snacks and water. Rolling hills and mixed forestry only add to the already high allure here, and be sure to pick up a map to navigate the Central Forest, East Forest and West Forest areas.
Dogs can be brought along as long as they stay on-leash, horseback riding is included in the mix and you’ll feel like you’re in a different world, despite it only being just over an hour outside of the city.

The Riverwood Conservancy

If you want to stay local, find your way to The Riverwood Conservancy on Burnhamthorpe, a touch west of Creditview. There are various colour-coded trails to meander through, a plethora of wildlife. There’s ample parking and everything is laid out methodically so it’s nearly impossible to get disoriented.
The Culham Trail makes an appearance here at the end of the red trail, so if you’re looking to get some extra steps in, keep on keepin’ on.
On the nearly unbelievable side, if you walk from the parking lot to Burnhamthorpe, head west until Mississauga Road and then head north a smidge, you’ll come across Wahoosh Falls, a mini waterfall. Yes, Mississauga has a waterfall!