The best walks and hikes in Eldred King Tract
4.7
(16)
70
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking in Eldred King Tract offers diverse landscapes within the Oak Ridges Moraine, characterized by rolling hills, hollows, and kettles. The terrain features a mix of sand, gravel, and underlying clay, supporting both coniferous and deciduous forests. Trails often lead through open meadows and past a notable pond and dam, providing varied natural features for exploration.
Best hiking trails in Eldred King Tract
- The most popular hiking route is Hollidge Tract loop from Hollidge Tract, a 6.0 miles (9.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 31 minutes to complete. This route navigates through varied forest types and rolling topography.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Patterson Tract – Eldred King Tract loop from Eldred King Tract, a moderate 9.1 miles (14.7 km) path. This trail offers expansive views across the moraine and through mixed woodlands.
- Local hikers also love the Eldred King Tract loop from Eldred King Tract, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail leading through diverse forests and open areas, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Hiking in Eldred King Tract is defined by rolling hills, diverse forests, and open meadows. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate longer trails.
- The routes in Eldred King Tract are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Eldred King Tract's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
2
hikers
6.12km
01:37
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.41km
00:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
5
hikers
3.76km
00:59
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
35
hikers
9.30km
02:26
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.17km
00:34
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Eldred King Tract
Tips from the Community
The York Regional Forest is a huge network of protected greenspace spanning over 2,600 hectares across different tracts of land in southern Ontario. It is made up of 24 unique forest tracts, and 22 of those are open and free to the public 365 days a year. There are over 150 kilometres of trails to explore by hiking, dog walking, horseback riding, and seasonal cross-country skiing. York Regional Forest is a beloved recreation site as well as ecologically important.
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The Davis Drive Tract is a 60-hectare public forest between Davis Drive and McCowan Road. Part of the York Regional Forest system, this tract is a protected green corridor connecting the North Tract to the Bendor and Graves Tract. Hikers, bikers and horseback riders come here to explore a network of well-maintained loops through forests of replanted pines and mixed-hardwoods.
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Davis Drive Tract parking lot is marked with a “York Regional Forest” sign, where vehicles can pull into a well-maintained gravel lot. The trailhead has a map and information to read up on, as well as a trashcan.
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Drysdale Woods is a protected forest tract in the York Regional Forest system. For six decades this area was a family-owned Christmas tree farm. The property was generously donated by the Drysdale family to be preserved for future generations. The trail system that loops around the tract, the Drysdale Woods Loop, takes hikers and bikers on a 3.7-kilometre journey through conifer plantations, towering red pines, and native deciduous hardwoods. The forest floor is often covered with a blanket of soft pine needles, and sometimes white-tailed deer, porcupines, and songbirds can be seen wandering in the woods.
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Here, Oak Ridges Trail meets the Drysdale Woods trail at York Durham Line. The Oak Ridges Trail stretches over 275 kilometres, and from here the trail curves either down south, overlapping the road, or to the west into the forest.
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Vivian Creek flows through the western edge of Drysdale Woods. The cold clear creek flows peacefully though the local tract.
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This section of York Region Forest is crisscrossed with well-maintained, wide crushed gravel paths that are popular for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. In the winter these are great snowshoe and ski trails. There are a few singletrack paths to explore through the heart of the tract.
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You can park for Davis Tract and North Tract at the gravel lot along McCowan Road. Access to the North Tract is north of the lot just across the road via a singletrack connector by the wire fence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Eldred King Tract?
Eldred King Tract offers nearly 30 hiking routes, catering to various preferences. Most of these trails are considered easy, with a good selection of moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Eldred King Tract?
The terrain in Eldred King Tract is diverse, reflecting its location within the Oak Ridges Moraine. You'll encounter rolling hills, hollows, and kettles, with paths made of sand, gravel, and sometimes muddy sections. Trails range from smooth soil to single tracks that can be quite hilly.
Are there any easy, shorter hikes suitable for beginners or a quick outing?
Yes, Eldred King Tract has many easy routes. For example, the Eldred King Tract loop from Eldred King Tract is an easy 3.7 km trail that can be completed in under an hour, leading through diverse forests and open areas. Another easy option is the Eldred King Tract loop from Scout Tract, which is 3.4 km long.
What are the longer, more challenging hiking options in Eldred King Tract?
For a longer and more moderate hike, consider the Patterson Tract – Eldred King Tract loop from Eldred King Tract. This route spans 14.7 km and offers expansive views across the moraine and through mixed woodlands. Another moderate option is the Hollidge Tract loop from Hollidge Tract, which is 9.6 km and navigates varied forest types and rolling topography.
Is Eldred King Tract suitable for families with children?
Yes, Eldred King Tract is recognized as family-friendly. The abundance of easy trails and diverse natural features like forests and meadows make it a great place for children to explore. Many routes are relatively short and have gentle elevation changes.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Eldred King Tract?
Yes, Eldred King Tract is a dog-friendly destination. You are welcome to bring your canine companions along to enjoy the trails, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and that you clean up after them.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see during a hike?
Hikers in Eldred King Tract can enjoy diverse landscapes. You'll pass through both coniferous and deciduous forests, featuring Sugar Maples, Beech, White Pines, Red Oaks, and White Birch. A prominent attraction is a scenic pond and a dam. Trails also frequently lead through open meadows offering expansive views.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in Eldred King Tract?
Eldred King Tract is home to various bird species. Keep an eye out for Hawks soaring overhead and the vibrant Scarlet Tanagers. The diverse forest and meadow habitats support a range of local wildlife.
Is there parking available at Eldred King Tract trailheads?
Yes, Eldred King Tract offers amenities such as free parking areas, making access to the trails convenient for visitors.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Eldred King Tract?
The komoot community highly rates Eldred King Tract, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse forests, rolling topography, and the peaceful atmosphere of the trails.
Are there any circular routes in Eldred King Tract?
Yes, many of the trails in Eldred King Tract are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hall Tract loop from Scout Tract and the Eldred King Tract loop from Eldred King Tract.
What is the best time of year to visit Eldred King Tract for hiking?
Eldred King Tract is a year-round destination. While popular for hiking in warmer months, its diverse forests offer beautiful fall colors, and the area is also suitable for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing in winter, providing varied experiences throughout the seasons.
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