3 Best Hiking Trails in Barrie, ON

“Arboretum Sunnidale Park is home to an extensive arboretum and the Dorian Parker Centre and features a 2.1-kilometre heavily trafficked loop trail with kilometres of flat gravel and forested walking trails. Arboretum Sunnidale Park includes grassy areas, historical information plaques, pathways for walking or running, and flat and hilly terrain. The park offers excellent views, peaceful relaxation spots, and opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Visitors can explore numerous trees, garden beds filled with beautiful flowers, and a shaded tree canopy walk. Additionally, there's a small playground at one end. Arboretum Sunnidale Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking ample space for various activities. The park includes large open and treed areas, large planters, and community centre, a dog off-leash recreation area, and more. Arboretum Sunnidale Park is wheelchair accessible.”

“2026 Highlights: Barrie Waterfront Heritage Trail is a scenic, mostly paved 6.7 kilometre pathway following the shoreline of Kempenfelt Bay in Barrie, Ontario. The trail connects major waterfront parks, including Heritage Park and Centennial Park, and provides an enjoyable setting for walking, cycling, and exploring the waterfront. Along the route, visitors can discover interpretive historical stations and the iconic Spirit Catcher sculpture. The trail also provides convenient access to beaches, parks, downtown Barrie, and nearby waterfront amenities, making it a popular route for enjoying the city’s natural surroundings and waterfront attractions.”

“Wilkins Walk Trail is a 1.9-acre out-and-back trail. This trail is excellent for hiking, and you'll unlikely encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit are from April through October. The trail route is accessible from multiple points and follows a narrow patch of woods connecting to Hewitt's Creek. Visitors can round the trail by crossing Big Bay Point through a tunnel. For those who love ice fishing, park your car along Golden Meadow. This is a great place for an outdoor walk and a nice place to take pictures. Note that dogs are prohibited on city beaches, so adhere to this ordinance. Wilkins Walk is a 2 km, family-friendly mixed trail that leads to the picturesque Wilkins Beach on Lake Simcoe. It is a multi-use path that can be travelled in both directions, and it takes about 6 minutes to complete.”