Guelph has over 70 kilometres of scenic trails through 1,000+ hectares of parks and natural spaces. With routes for every fitness level, from casual walks to more heart-pumping workouts, the city offers many beautiful landscapes to help you stay active and connect with nature.
Keep reading to learn about three of the best walking trails in Guelph.
Riverside Park Trails
East of Woolwich Street and north of Speedvale Ave, the Riverside Park Trails are popular for walkers.
Family-Friendly Paths
Riverside Park's flat, paved paths make it easy for families with children, seniors, and anyone wanting a stroll. The trails wind through well-maintained gardens and open green spaces, providing a gorgeous backdrop for rest or play.
River Views and Nature
One of Riverside Park Trails' highlights is the Speed River, which runs alongside the paths. Walkers can pause to enjoy calming water views and may even spot local wildlife like ducks, geese, kingfishers, and herons. The natural scenery and recreational facilities make this trail a local favourite.
Arboretum Trails
Besides the University of Guelph campus, you’ll find the Arboretum spanning 400 acres of assorted landscapes. Various trails cater to casual walkers and those who prefer a brisk pace.
Diverse Trail Options
The Arboretum has different trails, from short, easy paths like the Ivey Trail to longer, more challenging routes like the Trillium Trail. Beginners love the flat, well-marked paths, while those who do moderate workouts typically explore the winding trails that extend through wooded areas and open fields.
Unique Features
Along the trails, walkers can explore native plants, seasonal blooms, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Educational signs along the way provide fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna for a bit of learning alongside fresh air.
Preservation Park
Prefer quiet, forested settings? Preservation Park is the go-to for those looking to escape the stress and bustle of city life. Its shaded trails, tall trees, and peaceful setting make you want to walk, jog, or just enjoy nature.
Peaceful Forest Walks
The park’s trails swirl through dense forests filled with trees, offering lots of shade and a calming setting. The soft ground underfoot and the sound of the breeze through the leaves can help you unwind and connect with nature. Whether strolling alone or with company, the tranquillity of Preservation Park is hard to beat.
Options for Varied Fitness Levels
Preservation Park is suitable for all walkers, mixing gentle, level trails with some that are a bit challenging due to uneven terrain. Fitness-friendly features, like convenient benches, enhance the experience, allowing visitors to enjoy a comfortable outing with options to rest when necessary.
Let Guelph’s Trails Lead You Home
Guelph’s trails showcase the city’s beauty and offer great spots for relaxing walks or adventurous outings, whether you’re exploring riverside paths or scenic forest routes.
If you’re planning to move to Guelph, Andra Arnold & Associates can help you find a home that puts you close to nature and the amenities you love.
