Hiking in Winter: Discovering the Markham Trails

Being physically active can be challenging when the cold weather hits.  If you don’t ski, skate or play hockey, your options may be limited once the weather gets below the freezing mark.  One of the best ways to get some exercise in the fall/winter is hiking.  And with the seemingly endless options available for hiking near Toronto, we’re going to highlight our favourite Markham trails for hiking in winter.

Bob Hunter Memorial Park

Bob Hunter Memorial Park is part of the Rouge Urban National Park – which spans Scarborough, Markham, Pickering, Uxbridge, and Whitchurch-Stouffville. The park opened in 2006 and is named in honour of Robert Hunter who was an environmental champion, journalist, author and one of Greenpeace’s founders.  The park holds many of the best Markham trails which are perfect for hiking in winter.

Tanglewood Trail

This Markham trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels looking for a place to hike near Toronto.  The 3.2 Km loop includes stunning river features and is ideal for hiking, walking, and running. Learn more about the Tanglewood Trail.

Monarch Trail

The longer (5.3 Km) loop is less trafficked, but still approachable for anyone starting hiking in winter.  This Markham trail also features a lake that you can enjoy with your canine companion.  Dogs are welcome on the Monarch Trail but be sure to keep them on leash. Learn more about the Monarch Trail.

Toogood Pond Park

If you’re looking for an easier place for hiking near Markham with beautiful scenery, Toogood Pond is a 33-hectare park in the heart of Unionville.  While some would not call this a true Markham trail, the Park features a pond with an encircling walkway, perfect for a leisurely walk.  Bring  your camera or binoculars as the pond is home to many Geese, ducks, fish, and other wildlife.  Learn more about Toogood Pond Park.

Milne Dam Conservation Park Trail

This Markham trail located inside the Milne Dam Conservation Park is a 2.1 Km easily accessed loop which features a river and expansive fields which makes it a great fit for winter hiking.  The Milne Dam Trail offers many paved or graded sections which makes it a good fit for beginners.  Dogs are welcomed on this hike but must be kept on a leash.  Learn More about the Milne Dam Trail.

Huntington Trail

This 3.7 Km out and back trail which spans several cities in York Region is a wonderful option for hiking in Markham.  You may be lucky enough to run into white-tailed deer, coyotes, rabbits and several species of birds within this forested Markham trail.  The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible which makes it a great option for all abilities.  Learn more about the Huntington Trail.

Remember that a proper warm up is an important component of any winter activity so be sure to use the dry land warm up from our Biking in Cold Weather – Our Safety Tips.  And before you head out for your winter hike on the Markham trails, make sure you dress appropriately and check the local weather report.

If you’re looking for hiking rehab or injury prevention help, visit Cornerstone Physiotherapy Markham/Unionville at 5051 Highway 7 across from Markville Mall.

Are you wondering if our clinic can help you with your specific problem? Allow one of our registered physiotherapists to provide you with a free 10 minute phone consultation and get you honest answers to your questions.  Call us at (905) 209-6830.

About the author

Giacomo Silvestri

Physiotherapist, Director (Markham) Learn More about Giacomo Silvestri