The best walks and hikes around Kingston
4.6
(757)
4,057
hikers
424
hikes
Hikes around Kingston explore the natural heritage of this region in South East England. The area's landscape is characterized by a mix of green spaces, woodlands, and open meadows. These wooded areas and interspersed fields provide varied scenery for walkers.
Best hiking trails around Kingston
- The most popular hiking route is Bourne Park to Gorsley Wood loop — Kent Downs, a 9.1 mile (14.7 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 59 minutes to complete. This is a moderate hike within the Kent Downs.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is View of Bourne Park House – Pett Bottom Valley loop from Bishopsbourne, a moderate 7.6 mile (12.2 km) path. The route features views of Bourne Park House and the Pett Bottom Valley.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the View Across Charlton Park loop from Bishopsbourne, a 3.5 mile (5.7 km) trail leading through the local landscape, often completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes.
- Hiking around Kingston is defined by routes through woodlands, open meadows, and past historical landmarks. The trail network offers a mix of easy and moderate routes suitable for different fitness levels.
- The routes in Kingston are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 670 reviews. More than 3,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Kingston's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
4.4
(7)
19
hikers
14.7km
03:59
200m
200m
The Bourne Park to Gorsley Wood loop offers a moderate hiking experience through the Kent Downs, covering 9.1 miles (14.7 km) with 663 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 59 minutes. The trail takes you through a varied landscape of woodlands and open countryside, featuring a mix of natural paths, unpaved sections, and some paved surfaces. As you hike, you'll catch picturesque views of the historic Bourne Park House, a grand red-brick mansion from 1701, nestled within beautiful parkland. You'll also pass through the scenic Pett Bottom Valley and Gorsley Wood, which is especially known for its vibrant daffodil displays.
This moderate loop requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness, making it suitable for those comfortable with longer walks and varied surfaces. The approximately 200 metres of elevation change includes some inclines and descents, contributing to its classification. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking, it's generally advisable to check local information for the Kent Downs before you set out, especially concerning potential muddy conditions during wetter seasons.
Beyond the natural beauty, the route offers cultural insights with a glimpse of Bourne Park House and a passage by the historic St Mary's Church in Bishopsbourne, known for its connection to writer Joseph Conrad. The trail's ability to combine ancient woodlands, like Gorsley Wood with its daffodil displays, and open countryside provides a classic Kent Downs experience. This area is celebrated for its diverse chalk features, extensive ancient woodlands, and rich chalk grasslands.
4.5
(10)
38
hikers
11.4km
03:08
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(6)
27
hikers
16.0km
04:20
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great tearoom to have a bite to eat and/or drink during the walk.
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Between Bridleways this field lies near Kingston
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Elham valley railwayline could be an ace cycling route
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Low lying and runs beside the river so can get very wet and boggy at times
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This is a private forest with "No public right of way" signs. So we didn't go through.
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Absolutely impossible to hike in this area as of September 2023 - everything is outgrown, spiders everywhere and wherever is an open field, there is loads of flowers with many bees. Can sound delightful but felt rather horifying
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Bourne Park House was built in 1701 and lies in beautiful surroundings. Grade I-listed, it's an enormous red-brick mansion with a frontage of 13 windows on each storey. The house isn't open to the public but there are footpaths which lead through its wider parkland, offering excellent views of the mansion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Kingston?
Yes, there are hundreds of routes to explore in the Kingston area. You'll find a great mix of trails, with roughly half being easy and the other half moderate, plus a good number of challenging options for those seeking a tougher workout.
What are some popular places for hiking near Kingston?
Several conservation areas and parks are local favorites for hiking. Lemoine Point Conservation Area is highly regarded for its accessible lakeside trails and abundant wildlife. For a slightly more rugged experience, many people visit Parrott's Bay Conservation Area, which offers a mix of easy paths and deeper forest trails. Gould Lake Conservation Area is another excellent choice, known for its scenic trails around the lake within the Frontenac Arch Biosphere.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Kingston area?
Absolutely. Lemoine Point Conservation Area is a fantastic choice for families, offering well-maintained, flat trails where you can often see birds and squirrels up close. Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area is also wonderful for a walk with kids, featuring easy loops and boardwalks through marshlands.
I'm looking for a challenging hike. Any recommendations?
For a more strenuous hike, the trails in Frontenac Provincial Park are an excellent option. The park is known for its rugged, looped trails that traverse the granite ridges and dense forests of the Frontenac Arch, offering a true backcountry experience for experienced hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails around Kingston are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check the specific regulations for each park. Places like Lemoine Point Conservation Area and Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area are popular spots for walking with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, loop trails are very common in the region. For a rewarding loop with great views, consider the Summit Loop at Rock Dunder, which offers panoramic vistas of the Rideau Waterway. Frontenac Provincial Park also features numerous looped trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Kingston?
The trails in the Kingston area are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning natural scenery, from the granite landscapes of the Frontenac Arch to the serene waterfront paths along Lake Ontario.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Kingston?
While the immediate Kingston area is more known for its lakes and wetlands, you can find waterfalls by exploring the broader region. Some trails within the nearby parks, especially after heavy rainfall, may feature small cascades, but for significant waterfalls, you may need to venture further into the Canadian Shield landscape.
Can I go hiking in the winter?
Yes, winter hiking is a popular activity. Many conservation areas, such as Lemoine Point and Little Cataraqui Creek, maintain their trails for year-round use. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, as trails can be icy and snow-covered.
Are there any free hiking trails near Kingston?
Yes, there are several options for free hiking. Gould Lake Conservation Area is a local favorite that does not charge an entrance fee. The K&P Trail, a multi-use rail trail, also offers free access at its various entrance points, providing scenic walks through forests and farmlands.
What's a good hike for seeing autumn colours?
For spectacular fall foliage, head to the trails within the Frontenac Arch Biosphere. The mix of deciduous forests and elevated granite lookouts, such as those at Rock Dunder or in Frontenac Provincial Park, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the autumn colours.
Is it possible to go on a long-distance hike from Kingston?
Yes, Kingston is the southern starting point of the Rideau Trail, a 387-kilometer trail that runs all the way to Ottawa. You can hike sections of it for a day trip or plan a multi-day trek through a mix of wilderness and urban environments.
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