The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Clarington
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Family friendly hiking trails around Clarington traverse a diverse landscape, situated between the Lake Ontario Waterfront and the Oak Ridges Moraine. The region features rolling hills, valleys, and headwater tributaries from the Moraine, offering varied terrain. Along the southern edge, the Lake Ontario Waterfront provides bluffs, coastal views, and sandy beaches. Extensive forests, wetlands, and meadows are also prominent, supporting a wide variety of wildlife.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Clarington
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Courtice Shore Trail — Oshawa, a 1.6 miles (2.7 km) trail that takes about 41 minutes to complete, offering views along the shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Samuel Wilmot Nature Area and Waterfront Trail, an easy 3.6 miles (5.9 km) path. This route winds through forest and wetland, connecting to the scenic Waterfront Trail.
- Local hikers also love the Enniskillen Conservation Area loop — Hampton, a 1.7 miles (2.8 km) trail leading through dense woodlands and rugged terrain, often completed in about 42 minutes.
- Hiking around Clarington is defined by coastal paths along Lake Ontario, rolling hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine, and extensive forest and wetland areas. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Clarington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 29 hikers have used komoot to explore Clarington's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
4
hikers
5.87km
01:30
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4
hikers
3.34km
00:53
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
2.65km
00:42
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
3.07km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
2.83km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Woodland Trail is a short, roughly 300-metre section through one of McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve’s more enclosed forest areas. The mown-grass path feels noticeably different from the open marsh and shoreline trails nearby, with mature trees and thicker vegetation closing in around the route. The surrounding woodland is also an active restoration area, where volunteers have been removing invasive plants and reintroducing native species to improve the habitat.
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Bowman Valley Trail is a mostly paved route that follows Bowman Creek through a wooded green corridor in the heart of Bowmanville, with peaceful sections that run under beautiful, mature trees. Despite passing through an urban area, much of the trail feels surprisingly removed from the surrounding town as it winds alongside the creek through forest and floodplain. In autumn, you can often see salmon moving upstream, with several benches along the way, perfect for a lovely break to enjoy the quiet scenery.
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The Goodyear Dam sits along Bowman Creek near the former Goodyear site and was built in the 1920s to supply water for the factory. Today, the dam serves as a barrier to invasive sea lamprey, with a fish ladder and bypass channel allowing salmon and trout to continue upstream during seasonal spawning runs. In the fall, you can see lots of fish gathering below the dam, making this a popular stop along the trail.
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Bowman Creek flows south from the Oak Ridges Moraine through farmland and Bowmanville before emptying into Lake Ontario. Through town, the creek runs through a wooded valley corridor and is home to plenty of wildlife, including birds, fish, and blue herons, so keep an eye out as you walk along its banks. Seasonal salmon and trout runs make the creek popular with anglers, so you’ll likely spot a few casting a line while you’re here.
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Samuel Wilmot Nature Area is a protected natural space located along the north shore of Lake Ontario. The park features a mix of wetlands, shoreline habitat, meadows, and forest, creating an important refuge for birds and other wildlife. Several easy walking trails and boardwalks wind through the wetlands and along the lakeshore. The area also offers access to a small beach where visitors can enjoy views of Lake Ontario.
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The Waterfront Trail is a mostly paved 3.7-kilometer path that connects King Street to Lake Ontario. It’s ideal for a scenic walk or run along the waterfront.
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A rocky, quiet lakeside beach along Lake Ontario, it’s less developed than nearby beaches, which keeps it peaceful and ideal for a picnic or simply watching the waves. You can access it from the parking area of Courtice Shore Trail by taking a short side trail that leads to the water. You’ll find pebbles and driftwood, and you can walk along the shore and see the bluff formations, giving it a wild, coastal vibe.
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The Courtice Shores Trail offers a brief, easy walk along the edge of Lake Ontario, providing stunning, expansive views of the water from above. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon to catch the incredible colours as the sun dips below the horizon. The path runs well back from the shoreline, but be aware that the bluffs drop steeply towards the lake; you will not have direct access to the water except for the beginning. As the trail is unshaded for its entire length, remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat, especially during midday hikes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Clarington?
There are over 10 family-friendly hiking routes around Clarington featured in this guide. The majority of these, 8 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes in Clarington?
Clarington offers a diverse range of terrain, from the rolling hills and valleys of the Oak Ridges Moraine to the picturesque bluffs and sandy beaches along the Lake Ontario Waterfront. You'll find trails winding through lush forests, wetlands, and meadows, providing varied and engaging experiences for families.
Are there any easy, short trails suitable for young children?
Yes, many trails are designed with ease in mind. For a pleasant, short walk, consider the Courtice Shore Trail, which is just over 2.6 km long with minimal elevation changes. It's a great option for little legs.
Are there any circular routes for families in Clarington?
Absolutely! Circular routes are often ideal for families as they bring you back to your starting point. The Enniskillen Conservation Area loop is a fantastic option, offering a 2.7 km journey through diverse landscapes.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?
Many trails in Clarington are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific conservation area rules as some may require dogs to be on a leash. Generally, areas like the Ganaraska Forest and Long Sault Conservation Area welcome leashed dogs, offering plenty of space for your furry family members to enjoy the outdoors with you.
What natural features or attractions can we see along the trails?
Clarington's trails are rich with natural beauty. You can explore the provincially significant wetlands at the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. Other highlights include the scenic Lake Ontario Shoreline and the diverse ecosystems of McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in Clarington?
For families with strollers, the Bowmanville/Westside Marshes Conservation Area offers a 1.5 km granular looping trail that is generally accessible. This trail provides lovely views of the wetlands and is a vital stopover for migratory birds, making it a great option for a gentle family outing.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Clarington?
Each season offers unique beauty in Clarington. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while summer is perfect for enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, and winter provides serene, snow-covered landscapes for those who enjoy colder weather hikes. The best time depends on your family's preferences, but spring and fall are often favored for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Clarington?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Clarington, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse natural beauty, from the peaceful forest paths to the scenic waterfront views, and the well-maintained trails that make for enjoyable family outings.
Are there any trails accessible by public transport?
While many trails in Clarington are best accessed by car, some areas, particularly those closer to urban centers like Bowmanville, may have limited public transport options. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for specific routes or consider carpooling to reach trailheads in conservation areas like Darlington Provincial Park or the Ganaraska Forest.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Most conservation areas and provincial parks in Clarington, such as Darlington Provincial Park, Long Sault Conservation Area, and Orono Crown Lands, offer designated parking lots at their trailheads. Some smaller community trails may have street parking available nearby. Always look for signage and adhere to local parking regulations.
Are there any more challenging family-friendly options for older children?
For families with older children seeking a bit more adventure, the Enniskillen Conservation Area offers a more rugged hiking experience with rocky outcrops and dense woodlands. While still manageable, these trails provide a greater challenge and a sense of exploration compared to the easier, flatter paths.
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