The best walks and hikes around Newmarket

Yes, many trails in the Newmarket area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep them on a leash. Jokers Hill is a popular choice for hiking with dogs, offering shaded trails with some inclines. The extensive Nokiidaa Trail System is also generally welcoming to leashed dogs.

The King Edward VII Memorial Hall loop from Newmarket is a great option for a short, family-friendly walk. Additionally, the Dave Kerwin Trail is highly regarded by locals for being accessible and stroller-friendly, featuring a mix of paved paths and a notable elevated boardwalk through wetlands and woods.

For a more strenuous workout, head to the Thornton Bales Conservation Area, famously known as 'The 99 Steps'. This area is part of the Oak Ridges Moraine and features steep slopes and a large wooden staircase, offering a significant challenge compared to the region's generally flatter trails.

Many of Newmarket's main trails, like the Tom Taylor Trail, are maintained year-round, making them suitable for winter walking. However, natural surface trails in conservation areas can become icy or snow-covered. It's wise to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, such as ice cleats, for safety on less-maintained paths.

Yes, you can hike between the communities using the Nokiidaa Trail System. The name 'Nokiidaa' is an Ojibwe term for 'walking together,' and the trail was specifically designed to connect Newmarket with Aurora and East Gwillimbury, primarily following the scenic East Holland River.

Newmarket is home to several popular conservation areas. Wesley Brooks Conservation Area is a local favorite, known for its accessible trails, wetlands, and unique wood carvings. For birdwatching, Rogers Reservoir Conservation Area is an excellent choice, with trails winding through wetlands and forests.

Yes, there are several loop trails. For a moderate walk that takes you through the town and its surroundings, consider the Jubilee Clock Tower, Newmarket loop from Newmarket. Many trails within the conservation areas also offer shorter, circular routes.

The scenery is quite varied. You can expect picturesque water views along the Tom Taylor Trail as it follows the Holland River and encircles Fairy Lake. Other trails, like those at Jokers Hill, offer a more immersive forest experience with shaded paths. The region is known for its mix of river valleys, wetlands, and wooded areas.

Most trailheads and conservation areas in Newmarket, such as Wesley Brooks Conservation Area and Rogers Reservoir, offer free parking. However, lots can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful scenery along the river, and the variety of trails available, from easy strolls to more challenging inclines.

There are nearly 30 curated hiking routes on komoot, but this is just a starting point. The region boasts an extensive network of interconnected paths, including the Nokiidaa Trail System, offering countless variations for walkers and hikers of all abilities.

The longest and most challenging curated route is the Devil's Dyke Trail – Church of St Mary loop from Newmarket. This 21.9 km hike involves following a historic Anglo-Saxon earthwork and requires a good level of fitness.