Bartley Smith Greenway - Image 1
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Bartley Smith Greenway

4.6
·87 reviews·Vaughan, Canada

A scenic greenway connecting nature and art, perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides along the Humber River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

CrowdLow
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Bartley Smith Greenway - Image 1

Bartley Smith Greenway

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic greenway connecting nature and art, perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides along the Humber River.

4.6
(87 reviews)

"Beautiful trail by the art gallery! Grab a coffee or hot chocolate from Old Fire Hall and walk down through the art gallery entrance."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Small stones can get into shoes. Opt for sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes for comfort.

🚗 Smart Parking Choices

Limited parking at main lots. Try the library next to McMichael Art Gallery for free parking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

McMichael Canadian Art Collection Connection

McMichael Canadian Art Collection Connection

Southern end of the Greenway

Stroll through the beautiful grounds and sculpture garden connecting to the art gallery. A unique blend of nature and art.

Reddit
Humber River Views

Humber River Views

Along the riverbanks

Enjoy peaceful moments by the Humber River, with lush tree coverage offering shade and scenic beauty.

Reddit
Autumn Color Spectacle

Autumn Color Spectacle

Throughout the Greenway

Experience a vibrant display of color during the fall season, making for a picturesque walk or bike ride.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Trail Conditions & Footwear

Be prepared for varied terrain! Some sections are steep and can be challenging, especially for biking with young children. Proper hiking shoes are recommended due to small stones on the path. Reddit

Parking & Access Points

Parking can be limited, especially during local sports events. Consider alternative access points like the library next to the McMichael Art Gallery for free parking. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Stunning foliage colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Lush greenery, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A day out to visit Trails and forest 🌳🦌with favourite food 🍱 🍁🇨🇦 #trail #valley #WeekendVibes #fyp #foryoupage #williamgreenway #vaughan #mono #haltonhills #conservationarea #terracotta #ontario #canada🍁🇨🇦
@lakhmir_singh
2.4K likes • 103.4K views

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Small stones can get into shoes. Opt for sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes for comfort. Reddit

🚗 Smart Parking Choices

Limited parking at main lots. Try the library next to McMichael Art Gallery for free parking. Reddit

Modern Luxury Urban Townhome In One Of The Most Exclusive Areas In All Of Woodbridge Surrounded By Stunning Views Of Conservation & The Humber River. 2 Bed, 3 Bath w/Powder Room On Main w/Everything A First Time Buyer Or Young Family Would Need. $$$Upgrades$$$, Hardwood, Quartz Counters Under-mounted Oversized Chef's Sink, Upgraded Ext/Height Cabinets & Island Drawers, Pots & Pans Stirage, Upgrade...
@stevenjcommisso
317 likes • 34.1K views
First #run of the season done in shorts and a tank top! With the beautiful weather outside, I knew I had to find a trail that would have less people and I wasn’t disappointed with the #bartleysmithgreenway. The #trailhead off of fieldgate drive will see a bit of foot traffic but south of langstaff and you’re in the clear! Nothing like empty paths and trails under a blue sky, a shining sun and chir...
belugasan
47 likes • 0 views

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

Great tree coverage keeps you cool on sunny days. Perfect for escaping the summer heat. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Caution for Young Bikers

Some steep sections make it challenging for very young children on bikes. Reddit

The Bartley Smith Greenway I am thankful. Thankful for blue skies, for good health, for the ability to #run whenever and wherever I please. I am grateful for my independence, I am appreciative of the fresh air that I get to breathe and the freedom that comes with every step I take. Exploring new trails in the area and words cannot even express how amazing it is. #bartleysmithgreenway . . . #run365...
belugasan
39 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Proper Footwear

Small stones can get into shoes. Opt for sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes for comfort. Reddit

🚗 Smart Parking Choices

Limited parking at main lots. Try the library next to McMichael Art Gallery for free parking. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

Great tree coverage keeps you cool on sunny days. Perfect for escaping the summer heat. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Caution for Young Bikers

Some steep sections make it challenging for very young children on bikes. Reddit

☕ Grab a Local Treat

A charming small town is a short walk away with good food and cafe options. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(87 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Bartley Smith Greenway for its beautiful natural scenery, especially along the Humber River and its connection to the McMichael Art Gallery. The trail offers a good workout with its varied terrain and is appreciated for its tree coverage. However, some find parking limited and caution that certain steep sections may not be suitable for very young children on bikes.

"This is a really nice trail. I wouldn’t take any young kids here biking though because parts of it can get very steep and the warning signs aren’t there. It has good tree coverage so you’re not being roasted by the sun all the way through. The part that connects with the McMichael art gallery is beautiful."

Kwon

"Beautiful trail by the art gallery! Grab a coffee or hot chocolate from Old Fire Hall and walk down through the art gallery entrance. We parked at the Library next door as it's free parking vs paying $7 at the art gallery. There are multiple trails which are all loops. Only a portion of it can be difficult be it's up hill but nothing to strenuous. The Humber River goes through the trail and it's really beautiful. The sculpture garden is a nice spot to walk through as well."

Nash

"Beautiful with lots of color change during fall season, make sure to use proper hiking shoes, the trail has several tiny stones that are masters into finding their way inside our shoes. There is a public toilet but it was closed so make sure you don't count on that. There is a great small town just 10min walk from the trail, check it out they have some good food options and even a nice little café!"

Fatima Silveira

What People Like

Beautiful natural scenery
Connection to art gallery
Good for walking/running

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Steep sections for kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bartley Smith Greenway is accessible from various points. Popular access includes parking near the McMichael Canadian Art Collection or the local library. Some users mention trailheads off Fieldgate Drive, but note that areas south of Langstaff tend to be less crowded. Instagram+1

Parking is available but can be limited, especially when local sports games are happening. Consider parking at the library adjacent to the McMichael Art Gallery for free parking, as opposed to paying at the gallery itself. Reddit

While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads might vary, the area is generally served by public transit in Vaughan. Checking local transit schedules for routes near the McMichael Art Gallery or Woodbridge would be advisable. TikTok

The trailhead off Fieldgate Drive is a common starting point, but can get busy. For a potentially quieter experience, explore areas south of Langstaff. The connection to the McMichael Art Gallery also offers a scenic entry. Instagram

Yes, it's a popular spot for cycling, though some sections can be steep and challenging, particularly for younger children. It's a multi-use trail, so be mindful of other users. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Bartley Smith Greenway is a public park and trail system, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to enter. TikTok

As an outdoor greenway, it is generally accessible from dawn till dusk. Specific park hours may apply if entering through a managed area like the McMichael Art Gallery grounds. TikTok

The greenway itself is free to access. However, if you choose to park directly at the McMichael Art Gallery, there may be a parking fee. Parking at the nearby library is typically free. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all sources, most greenways and conservation areas in Ontario allow dogs on leash. It's always a good idea to check local bylaws or signage. TikTok

The trail is generally open year-round, but conditions can vary with weather. Winter may bring snow and ice, making certain sections more challenging. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The terrain is varied, featuring both flat sections and some steep hills. It's a mix of paved and unpaved paths, with small stones present on some parts of the trail. Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for hiking, offering beautiful scenery and a good workout due to the elevation changes. The tree coverage provides welcome shade. TikTokReddit

You can expect to see a mix of trees and shrubs, with the Humber River flowing alongside parts of the trail. It's a peaceful natural setting within the urban landscape. Reddit

Public toilets may be available, but they can sometimes be closed. It's advisable to check their status beforehand or plan accordingly. Reddit

Crowds can vary. The trailhead off Fieldgate Drive might see more foot traffic, while areas south of Langstaff are often less busy. Weekends and event days can increase visitor numbers. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography Spots

The connection to the McMichael Art Gallery offers a unique blend of art and nature for photos. The sculpture garden is also a picturesque location. The Humber River banks provide serene natural backdrops. Reddit

Absolutely! The diverse flora, the river, and the changing seasons, especially autumn, provide excellent opportunities for nature photography. Reddit

Yes, the sculpture garden connected to the McMichael Art Gallery features various art installations that are great for photography. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. TikTok

Look for elevated points along the trail that offer views of the river valley and the surrounding treed landscape. The connection to the art gallery grounds also provides unique perspectives. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bartley Smith Greenway offers a beautiful natural setting for families, but with a few caveats. While great for walks and enjoying nature, parents should be aware that some sections are quite steep, which can be challenging for very young children on bikes or scooters. Reddit Consider sticking to the flatter, more accessible parts of the trail or opting for a leisurely stroll. The connection to the McMichael Art Gallery can be a fun addition, offering a chance to see art and sculptures. Reddit

Parking is a key consideration for families. The main lots can fill up quickly, so arriving early or utilizing the free parking at the nearby library is a smart move. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea, as restroom facilities might not always be available or convenient. Reddit The natural beauty, with its trees and river, provides a lovely backdrop for a family outing, just be mindful of the terrain's demands.

🏃‍♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts

For runners and those looking for a fitness challenge, the Bartley Smith Greenway offers a dynamic route. The trail's varied terrain, including significant inclines, provides an excellent opportunity for interval training or a more demanding run than a flat path. Reddit The natural scenery and tree cover make the experience more enjoyable, especially during warmer months. TikTok

Runners often appreciate the less crowded sections found further along the trail, away from the main trailheads. Instagram This allows for uninterrupted running and a more immersive experience in nature. Proper footwear is crucial to prevent discomfort from the small stones on the path. Reddit Whether you're training for a race or just seeking an invigorating outdoor workout, the Bartley Smith Greenway delivers.

🎨 Art & Nature Lovers

This greenway is a dream for those who appreciate the intersection of art and nature. The direct link to the McMichael Canadian Art Collection is a major draw, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition from a refreshing walk or bike ride to exploring significant Canadian art. Reddit The sculpture garden itself is a beautiful outdoor exhibition space, perfectly complementing the natural surroundings. Reddit

Beyond the art, the natural beauty of the Humber River and the mature trees offers a tranquil environment for contemplation and photography. Reddit The changing seasons, particularly autumn, paint the landscape with vibrant colors, creating a picturesque setting for both artistic inspiration and peaceful enjoyment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Bartley Smith Greenway Trail

The Bartley Smith Greenway is a cherished natural corridor in Vaughan, Ontario, offering a refreshing escape for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Its appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, connecting key areas and providing a peaceful retreat from urban life. The trail is known for its varied terrain, which can include some challenging inclines, making it a good option for those seeking a bit of a workout. TikTok+1

One of the most unique aspects of the Bartley Smith Greenway is its seamless integration with the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. This connection allows visitors to combine a nature walk with a cultural experience, exploring the gallery's grounds and sculpture garden. The presence of the Humber River winding through parts of the greenway adds to its scenic charm, offering tranquil spots for reflection. Reddit

When planning your visit, it's wise to consider the trail conditions. While enjoyable, parts of the path can be steep, and small stones are common, so wearing appropriate footwear is highly recommended. Parking can also be a consideration, with main lots sometimes filling up quickly. Exploring alternative access points, like the nearby library, can ensure a smoother start to your adventure. Reddit

Best Practices for Visiting Bartley Smith Greenway

To make the most of your visit to the Bartley Smith Greenway, preparation is key. Footwear is a recurring theme in visitor feedback; sturdy shoes are essential to navigate the small stones and uneven surfaces, especially on steeper sections. Reddit This is particularly important if you plan on cycling, as stability is crucial. Reddit

Parking can be a point of consideration. While there are designated parking areas, they can fill up, especially during peak times or local events. Many visitors suggest utilizing the free parking at the library adjacent to the McMichael Art Gallery as a convenient alternative. Reddit This also provides a pleasant starting point for exploring the greenway and the art collection. Reddit

For those looking for a more serene experience, visiting during weekday mornings is often recommended to avoid larger crowds. Instagram The trail offers good tree coverage, making it a pleasant option even on warmer days, providing natural shade. TikTok Remember to check for public restroom availability, as facilities may not always be operational. Reddit

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