Scarborough Bluffs Trail

Route Description for Scarborough Bluffs Trail

Besides a small amount of off-the-pavement trail at the end of the route, the Scarborough Bluffs Trail doesn’t offer anything in the way of technical or challenging terrain. The only drawback to hiking this beautifully scenic route is the amount of other hikers that will inevitably be out on the trail with you. Be sure to arrive early enough to secure parking and enjoy a bit of solitude along the edge of Lake Ontario. Hikers should also stick to trails and avoid climbing on the bluffs themselves, as a number of people find themselves stuck up there every year with no safe path of return down the rocky terrain.

What the Scarborough Bluffs Trail lacks in challenging terrain, it certainly makes up for with scenic views. While out hiking this laid back trail, you will experience stunning views along the shoreline of Lake Ontario that stretch out from the rocky bluffs to the blue expanse of the water. The easy-to-navigate paths and minimal amount of elevation also make this a great route for families with young children that are looking to get outside and enjoy nature. If your aim for the weekend is a short hike along the water’s edge and a day spent at the beach, then the Scarborough Bluffs Trail is a great option.

Setting out from the car park, make your way north through Bluffer’s Park to meet up with the main trail. From here, follow the path to the northeast, as it skirts along the edge of Bluffer’s Park Yacht Club for some pleasant views overlooking the various yachts and smaller boats stored in the area. After passing through an area with a parking lot on your left and the yacht club on your right, you will reach a junction in the trail. Staying right here will see you walk the length of a small peninsula, whereas the left trail will take you to the bluffs. The choice here is inconsequential, so for the sake of this guide, take the path on the right to continue along the edge of the water.

Continue on for the next 0.7 km, as you take in the stunning views across the water of Lake Ontario and watch the boats come in and out of the marina. After experiencing the beauty of this small peninsula, retrace your steps along the trail to return to the junction, heading right to make your way past Bluffer’s Park Beach. This is a great place to end the day at the beach; however, first you will need to continue along the path to reach the rocky bluffs.

After passing by the washroom area, continue along the trail for the next 490 m through a lovely stretch of forest. At this point, the route will take you off-trail along the beach to reach the edge of the bluffs, so if you are travelling with a stroller, you might want to turn back. Continue on for another 400 m, taking in the beautiful views of the picturesque blue waters of the lake on your right and the rugged rock formation of the bluffs on your left. Once you have spent enough time exploring the area, head back along the same trail to either return to the beach for the afternoon or to the car park having completed the Scarborough Bluffs Trail.

Insider Hints for Scarborough Bluffs Trail

• Make sure to arrive early for this hike, as parking spaces will fill up very quickly.
• Although it may look like a fun place to explore, do not climb onto the bluffs themselves. The rocky terrain is very challenging to navigate, resulting in a good number of people every year that need to be rescued.
• Washroom facilities can be found along the trail near Bluffer’s Park Beach.
• Don’t forget your swimsuit to spend some time on the beach after your hike.