Distillery District Reveals 5 Best Walking Trails Ranked by Distance, Difficulty

The city’s most accessible and consistently popular walking path remains the 4.5-kilometre Rackhouse River Loop. This mostly flat, paved trail follows the water from the Mill Street Bridge to the Charcoal Way footbridge and back, making it the go-to choice for everyone from parents with strollers to lunchtime office workers seeking a quick dose of fresh air.

As household budgets continue to feel the squeeze and gym membership costs climb, the appeal of free, accessible outdoor fitness has never been greater. For many, a simple walk provides a reliable escape from daily pressures and the screen-related fatigue exacerbated by events like this morning’s widespread mobile network failure. Getting outside is a dependable way to disconnect when technology fails us, offering both mental and physical benefits without a price tag.

Our city’s green spaces offer a surprisingly diverse range of options. Beyond the well-trodden Rackhouse River path, the trail system in Cooperage Park provides varied inner-city routes, while the more rugged Gantry Hills Reserve on the west side presents a genuine challenge. The Distillery District Parks Conservancy, the non-profit that helps maintain these spaces, regularly posts trail conditions and updates on its website, a crucial resource after heavy rains.

Easy Outings and Riverside Rambles

For those looking for a gentle but scenic walk, two options stand out. The Rackhouse River Loop is the undisputed champion of accessibility. The entire 4.5-kilometre path is paved, well-lit until 10 p.m., and features public restrooms and water fountains near the Mill Street Bridge entrance. The full loop takes most people between 45 and 60 minutes to complete.

A slightly quieter alternative is the Cooperage Park ‘Grand Circuit.’ This 3-kilometre gravel path winds through the park’s historic arboretum and past the botanical gardens. With only a gentle 20-metre rise in elevation, it’s suitable for all ages. According to Parks Conservancy data from 2025, usage of the Grand Circuit increased by 15% following the installation of new wayfinding signage and benches funded by a local business grant. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend stroll that feels removed from the city’s core without requiring a long journey.

Steeper Climbs and Serious Strides

If you’re seeking to elevate your heart rate along with your view, the Gantry Hills Reserve offers the most rewarding challenge within city limits. The primary trail, known as the ‘Gantry Ascent,’ is a steep 6-kilometre return trip that involves a significant 280-metre elevation gain. The path is unpaved, with rocky sections that demand sturdy footwear. The climb is worth it, culminating at a scenic overlook with panoramic views of downtown.

This trail is a direct beneficiary of the City Council’s ‘Greenways Initiative,’ which allocated $1.2 million in its 2025 budget for trail restoration and erosion control in the reserve. While the path is now more stable, walkers should still budget at least 90 minutes to two hours for the round trip and carry their own water, as there are no facilities within the reserve itself.

Before heading out to any trail, especially the more challenging routes, checking for current conditions is always a wise first step. Local walking clubs, such as the Distillery District Striders, often share real-time updates on social media. Whether it’s a simple riverside loop or a demanding hilltop climb, the city’s trails offer a valuable-and free-resource for staying active and grounded.