The best walks and hikes around Barrie
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98
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12
hikes
Hiking around Barrie offers diverse landscapes, from the shores of Kempenfelt Bay to extensive forest areas and natural reserves. The region features waterfront pathways, deep woodlands, and trails along creeks and wetlands. Hikers can explore varied terrain including paved multi-use paths, shaded forest trails, and routes through open fields.
Best hiking trails around Barrie
- The most popular hiking route is North Shore Trail: Johnson's Beach Park to Centennial Park, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
36
hikers
7.81km
01:59
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
2.26km
00:36
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
7.12km
01:49
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.68km
00:58
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.43km
00:37
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barrie
Tips from the Community
You can catch some shade in the pavilion or along the tree-lined portion of the waterfront trail on the east side of the park, which is split to separate cyclists and walkers. A rose garden and military memorial line the path a few metres back from the water.
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Past the splash fountains you'll find a metal sculpture of a sea serpent dubbed "Kempenfelt Kelly" overlooking the water. Paved walking trails take you around a small pond and pavilion, and you can walk out along the jetty on the south side of the park.
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The trail takes you along the coast, connecting Barrie's three shoreside parks with a multi-use trail that splits in places to separate cyclists from walkers and runners. Kempenfest, live theatre, and other events are often held on the waterside.
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The North Shore Trail is a multi-use trail that runs the entire length of Kempenfelt Bay’s north shore. It connects several parks and beaches along Barrie’s north end, making it easy to stop and relax by the water along the way. The trail is well maintained and accessible year-round.
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Centennial Park is a popular waterfront park along the shores of Lake Simcoe in Barrie, Ontario. It has a sandy beach, open grassy areas, beach volleyball courts, and a large playground, making it a great spot for families. The park also connects to Barrie’s North Shore Trail, which is perfect for walking or biking along the lake.
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Johnson’s Beach Park is a small, scenic waterfront park located along the shores of Lake Simcoe. Known for its sandy shoreline and calm waters, it’s a popular local spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the lake during the summer months. The North Shore Trail runs by the park, making it easy to access for a waterfront stroll.
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The Lovers Creek Walk is a calm, wooded trail tucked into a ravine in Barrie, running alongside a gently flowing creek with patches of forest canopy and small clearings. The route is easy to moderate, offering roots and natural surfaces rather than polished pavement, which adds to the quiet nature-escape feel. Wildlife sightings (deer, birds) and seasonal wildflowers are common, making this a relaxed green waypoint for a short stroll or as part of a longer neighbourhood loop.
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Wilkins Walk, also known as the Warnica Trail, is an easy, well-traveled trail with a gentle grade from start to finish. The route leads through cedar groves and along side an open marshy stream. The final stretch follows Hewitt’s Creek all to its outlet on Lake Simcoe, a scenic destination for the walk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Barrie?
Barrie offers a diverse network of nearly 20 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore everything from waterfront paths along Kempenfelt Bay to deep forest areas and natural reserves.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Barrie?
Yes, Barrie has several excellent family-friendly trails. The North Shore Trail: Johnson's Beach Park to Centennial Park is a paved, multi-use path ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, offering scenic views of Kempenfelt Bay. Sunnidale Park loop also provides an easy stroll through an arboretum and wooded areas, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Barrie?
Many trails in Barrie are dog-friendly, though it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. Areas like Ardagh Bluffs Natural Area and Simcoe County Forest: Hendrie Tract are popular choices for walks with canine companions, offering extensive networks of trails through natural settings.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Barrie?
Yes, several trails in Barrie are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. The Sunnidale Park loop and Wilkins Walk Loop are popular examples. The Ardagh Ring Trail within the Ardagh Bluffs Natural Area also provides a substantial circular route through deep forest.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while hiking in Barrie?
Barrie's trails offer a variety of natural features. You can enjoy stunning views of Kempenfelt Bay along the waterfront trails, explore deep forests and wetlands in areas like Ardagh Bluffs and Tiffin Conservation Area, or follow creeks and ravines such as Lovers Creek. Historic sites like the Nine Mile Portage Heritage Trail also offer a blend of nature and history. You can also visit Johnson’s Beach Park or the Gov't Dock for scenic stops.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Barrie?
Barrie offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant greenery and the sounds of frog calls in wetland areas like Bear Creek Loop. Summer is perfect for waterfront strolls. Autumn is particularly beautiful with stunning fall foliage in areas like Ardagh Bluffs and Simcoe County Forest. Even winter offers chances for snowshoeing in places like Copeland Forest.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Barrie?
Absolutely. Many trails in Barrie are considered easy, making them perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. The North Shore Trail, Sunnidale Park loop, and Lovers Creek are all excellent easy options, featuring relatively flat terrain and well-maintained paths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Barrie?
The hiking experiences in Barrie are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil waterfront paths to the immersive forest trails, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels. The blend of urban convenience with abundant natural beauty is frequently highlighted.
Are there any trails with significant elevation or more challenging terrain?
While many Barrie trails are easy, areas like the Simcoe County Forest: Hendrie Tract and Copeland Forest offer more immersive backwoods experiences with varied terrain, including sandy hills and dense woodlands. The 24.62 km Copeland Forest Perimeter Loop, for instance, provides a more challenging option for those seeking a longer trek.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Barrie?
Most major trailheads and parks in Barrie, such as Sunnidale Park, Johnson's Beach Park, and access points for Ardagh Bluffs, offer designated parking areas. For specific trails, it's advisable to check local signage or trail information for the most convenient parking locations.
Are there any trails that offer historical insights?
Yes, the Nine Mile Portage Heritage Trail is a notable historical route. It traces an ancient Indigenous and fur trader path, connecting Barrie to Springwater Township and leading to the Fort Willow Heritage Site, which played a strategic role during the War of 1812. This trail offers a unique blend of nature and local history.
Can I find trails that are suitable for birdwatching or wildlife spotting?
Barrie's diverse ecosystems make it excellent for wildlife observation. Tiffin Conservation Area is a haven for birdwatchers, with its wetlands, forests, and ponds. Bear Creek Loop is known for waterfowl, turtles, and songbirds, while Ardagh Bluffs and Simcoe County Forest often provide sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and red foxes.
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