Scarborough Bluffs Toronto
Dramatic sedimentary cliffs bordering Lake Ontario, offering stunning views, beaches, and hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Scarborough Bluffs Toronto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic sedimentary cliffs bordering Lake Ontario, offering stunning views, beaches, and hiking trails.
"A gem every time, offering incredible views and a peaceful escape."
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Secure parking by arriving early, especially on weekends. Lots fill up quickly! :car:
⚠️ Stay Away From Edge
The cliffs are dangerous. Never cross fences or go near the edge for your safety. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bluffers Park Lookout
Bluffers Park
Panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the iconic sedimentary cliffs. A must-see for first-time visitors.
Bluffers Beach
Bluffers Park
Relax by the water with dramatic cliffs as your backdrop. Perfect for picnics and enjoying the summer sun.
Doris McCarthy Trail
Eastern Scarborough
Scenic hiking trails offering diverse perspectives of the bluffs and lake. Great for nature lovers.
Sunset Views
Various viewpoints
Witness magical sunsets painting the sky over the bluffs and lake. An unforgettable sight.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Parking
Safety First at the Edge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Secure parking by arriving early, especially on weekends. Lots fill up quickly! +1 :car:
⚠️ Stay Away From Edge
The cliffs are dangerous. Never cross fences or go near the edge for your safety. +1 :warning:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Discover hidden gems and stunning views on trails like Doris McCarthy Trail. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views. +1 :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 8 AM
Secure parking by arriving early, especially on weekends. Lots fill up quickly! +1 :car:
⚠️ Stay Away From Edge
The cliffs are dangerous. Never cross fences or go near the edge for your safety. +1 :warning:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Discover hidden gems and stunning views on trails like Doris McCarthy Trail. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views. +1 :picnic_table:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic cliffs and lake offer incredible photo opportunities. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of Scarborough Bluffs, calling it a 'gem' and a must-visit for its stunning cliff views and beach access. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for picnics and photography. However, the biggest drawback is the challenging parking situation, with lots filling up extremely early, and some find the TTC access inconvenient.
"A Majestic Escape at the Scarborough Bluffs!
I was completely blown away by the Scarborough Bluffs, a true natural wonder right here in Toronto. It’s hard to believe that this stunning landscape of towering white cliffs and clear blue water is so close to the city.
We spent our time at Bluffers Park, which gives you incredible views from the beach at the base of the cliffs. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking and feels more like a coastal escape than a city park.
The beach itself is beautiful, with soft sand and the calm waters of Lake Ontario. It's a fantastic spot for a swim, a picnic, or just relaxing.
The Scarborough Bluffs are a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of nature's majesty without leaving the city. I can't wait to go back!"
Ania Kowalczyk
"Stunningly beautiful, clean beach. Large waves, warm water. Areas with life guards. Have children wear life jackets. You can walk out quite far as an adult but the waves can knock you off balance. So peaceful and lovely. You can walk a long way along the beach. Public restrooms and changerooms. Picnic areas, food and ice cream trucks. Not highly populated when I went Aug 21st. It's like being at the ocean without leaving Ontario."
Jen Seguin
"Scarborough Bluffs is a stunning natural gem right in the city. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking — cliffs overlooking the water, surrounded by greenery and peaceful walking trails. It's the perfect spot for a picnic, a relaxing stroll, or just taking in the beauty of Lake Ontario. The beaches below are clean and spacious, and there’s plenty of room to explore. A must-visit if you're in Toronto and looking for a scenic escape without leaving the city!"
Shafat Hassan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fastest way from Union Station on a weekend is to take the Go Train to Kennedy Station, then catch the 201 TTC bus. On weekdays, you might need to combine subway and bus routes. Driving is an option, but parking is challenging. +1
Getting there by TTC can be challenging, especially outside of summer when some bus routes don't run. Be prepared for steep walks and potential long distances from bus stops to the bluffs. +1
Yes, biking is possible, and there are dedicated bike trails. However, be aware of the steep inclines when approaching the bluffs from certain directions. :bike:
For easier access to the waterfront, consider trails like 'trail to Scarborough heights waterfront' or the path from Guildwood Parkway and Galloway. These are less steep than some other options.
Yes, there are parking lots, particularly at Bluffers Park. However, they fill up extremely quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving before 8 AM is highly recommended. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Scarborough Bluffs Park is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can explore the parks and trails for free.
The parks and trails are generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities within the parks may have their own operating schedules.
There is no entrance fee to access Scarborough Bluffs Park. Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities without any cost.
No reservations are typically needed for general access to Scarborough Bluffs. However, if you plan a large group event or specific activity, it's best to check with the Toronto Parks department.
For scenic views, Bluffers Park Lookout is highly recommended. For a beach experience, Bluffers Beach is popular. The Doris McCarthy Trail offers great hiking. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy hiking on scenic trails, relaxing on Bluffers Beach, having picnics with stunning views, photography, and watching beautiful sunsets. +3
Yes, the Doris McCarthy Trail and the path down to the waterfront from Scarborough Heights offer excellent hiking opportunities with beautiful scenery.
Absolutely not. It is extremely dangerous to walk near the edge. Fences are in place for your safety, and crossing them can lead to severe injury or death. +1
Yes, Bluffers Beach is a popular spot for swimming during the summer months. Always check water quality advisories before swimming.
The Bluffers Park Lookout offers a fantastic vantage point. Many visitors also enjoy the views from the top of the bluffs along the walking paths.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints overlooking Lake Ontario and the cliffs are prime photo locations. Sunsets provide dramatic lighting, and the beach offers a different perspective. +1
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers stunning cliff views.
Drone usage is subject to Toronto's bylaws. Generally, flying drones in city parks requires permits and adherence to strict regulations. Check with the City of Toronto for current rules.
You can capture sweeping panoramic landscapes, close-ups of the sedimentary rock formations, beach scenes, and vibrant sunset colors. +1
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of other visitors and avoid trespassing on private property or restricted areas. Always respect safety barriers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Scarborough Bluffs: Getting Around
Once you're in the vicinity, accessing different parts of the bluffs can involve walking. Some Reddit users suggest specific access points like the 'trail to Scarborough heights waterfront' or routes from Guildwood Parkway and Galloway for easier descent to the lake.
For cyclists, biking to Scarborough Bluffs is feasible, with some trails available. However, the terrain can be challenging with steep inclines.
Safety and Respect at the Bluffs
Beyond the immediate cliff danger, be mindful of the environment. While it's a popular spot for picnics and enjoying nature, proper waste disposal is essential to keep the parks clean.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Scarborough Bluffs
When planning your photo session, consider the time of day. Sunsets are particularly popular, as the light casts a warm glow over the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit