
Upper Don Trail
A serene urban trail perfect for leisurely walks and casual cycling, offering picturesque river views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Upper Don Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban trail perfect for leisurely walks and casual cycling, offering picturesque river views and a peaceful escape.
"A gorgeous nature trail in the middle of Toronto. #greatoutdoors #hiddengems"

Check Parking Status
Parking near Betty Sutherland Park (401) is temporarily closed due to construction. Plan alternative access points .
Cycling Speed Limits
Be mindful of posted signs limiting cycling speed to 20km/h, especially in shared areas .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic River Views
Along the Upper Don River
Enjoy picturesque, slow-moving water and changing autumn colors. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or bike ride.

Family-Friendly Paths
Throughout the trail system
Wide, mostly flat paths make it accessible for strollers and enjoyable for all ages. Great for a relaxed family day out.

Cycling Opportunities
Connecting to Lower Don River Trail
A pleasant route for amateur riders, with some fun medium-sized hills for those looking for a bit of thrill .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Construction
Best for Casual Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Parking Status
Parking near Betty Sutherland Park (401) is temporarily closed due to construction. Plan alternative access points.
Cycling Speed Limits
Be mindful of posted signs limiting cycling speed to 20km/h, especially in shared areas.
Skateboarding Note
Paths are okay for skateboarding, but can be bumpy for small wheels. Enjoy the medium hills!
Enjoy the Scenery
Plenty of nice views for photos, especially during the fall. Take your time and soak it in.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Parking Status
Parking near Betty Sutherland Park (401) is temporarily closed due to construction. Plan alternative access points.
Cycling Speed Limits
Be mindful of posted signs limiting cycling speed to 20km/h, especially in shared areas.
Skateboarding Note
Paths are okay for skateboarding, but can be bumpy for small wheels. Enjoy the medium hills!
Enjoy the Scenery
Plenty of nice views for photos, especially during the fall. Take your time and soak it in.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Upper Don Trail for its pleasant, mostly flat paths ideal for walking and casual cycling, offering nice river views and a peaceful atmosphere. Some note ongoing construction affecting parking and clear-cutting in certain areas, which can alter the landscape. The trail is considered a good, safe option for families and those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience within the city.
"Very nice trail for biking. we parked the car and rode down to the lower don river trail. The trail is very flat not many upslopes. This trail is good for me as amateur rider. There are signs that riders cannot go over 20km. Along there are a lot of nice views for photo. This trail is good for walking. Good for people with kids too."
A L
"The parking is temporarily closed and blocked at 401 in betty Sutherland due to construction. Hopefully the construction ends soon."
白里挑一
"Checked this trail out for the first time and really enjoyed it. Was pretty quiet. You don't hear the water as its pretty slow moving. The trees were changing colors beautifully. I was both walking and skateboarding the path. It's not the smoothest or cleanest for a skateboard with small hard wheels. But there are some medium size hills that were fun to bomb down. Overall its a chill and picturesque trail for walking, biking and even some skateboarding."
Carmine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points are available throughout the Upper Don Valley. Popular starting points include Betty Sutherland Trail Park (check for parking closures due to construction) and areas near the 401. Public transit options can also lead you to trailheads in the North York area.
Parking availability can vary. The lot at Betty Sutherland Trail Park near the 401 is currently closed due to construction. It's advisable to check local advisories or consider alternative access points.
Yes, several bus routes serve the North York area, providing access to various points along the Upper Don Trail. Check your preferred transit app for routes closest to your desired entry point.
The trail is generally wide and flat, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers for much of its length. However, some sections might have minor inclines or uneven surfaces.
Popular entry points include Betty Sutherland Trail Park and various access points along the Upper Don Valley. Many users also connect from the Lower Don River Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Upper Don Trail is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's free to access and enjoy.
As an outdoor public trail, the Upper Don Trail is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and visibility.
For general walking, biking, and recreational activities, no permits are typically required. However, for organized events or commercial activities, you may need to contact the relevant Toronto Parks department.
Yes, the trail is open year-round. However, winter conditions may make certain sections less accessible or require appropriate gear for snow and ice.
Dogs are generally permitted on the Upper Don Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check local park bylaws for specific regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The terrain is mostly flat and paved or packed gravel, making it ideal for casual walking and cycling. There are some gentle to medium inclines that can be fun for biking.
Restroom facilities may be limited and are typically found in larger park areas like Betty Sutherland Trail Park. It's advisable to check park maps or plan accordingly.
Yes, the natural environment along the river provides opportunities for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for various local bird species.
You might encounter squirrels, various bird species, and other small urban wildlife. The slow-moving river also supports aquatic life.
The trail is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. It has a neighborhood feel and is often used by locals.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks along the river, especially during autumn when the foliage is vibrant. The bridges and natural landscapes offer great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel.
Drone usage in Toronto parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check with the City of Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation for current bylaws and permit requirements before flying a drone.
While not marked as specific landmarks, the various bridges crossing the Don River and the natural curves of the river itself make for picturesque shots.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the scenery. For more dynamic shots, consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes or a telephoto lens for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Cyclists (Casual & Intermediate)
🚶♀️ Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Upper Don Trail
Recent clear-cutting in parts of the Don Valley for transit projects has altered some of the scenery, but there are plans for replanting with native species. This is a consideration for cyclists who might notice changes in the landscape. Despite these changes, the trail continues to offer pleasant cycling through urban green spaces, with opportunities to enjoy the river views and occasional gentle hills.
Navigating Trail Conditions and Access
Despite these potential inconveniences, the Upper Don Trail is generally well-maintained. The paths are suitable for walking, biking, and even casual skateboarding, though the latter might be a bit rough on smaller wheels. The trail's natural beauty, with its slow-moving river and seasonal foliage, remains a significant draw for those seeking a peaceful escape within the city. Always check local advisories for the most up-to-date information on closures or construction impacts before heading out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit