wellness
Annex's Top Walking Trails Rated by Distance and Difficulty
The Annex Parks Department issued updated rankings this week for neighbourhood trails based on measured distances and terrain challenges.
How we reported this
The Annex Parks Department released its 2026 trail ratings on July 5, listing five routes across local green spaces with precise distance and difficulty scores derived from GPS mapping and volunteer assessments.
Residents have increased outdoor activity as economic pressures ease, turning to no-cost options near home instead of gym memberships that average $45 monthly at facilities along Bloor Street. The shift aligns with the Annex Wellness Council's push for accessible movement amid lingering consumer caution reported in recent economic outlooks.
Beginner Routes Under 3 Kilometres
Riverside Park on the south side of Dupont Street offers the shortest option at 2.1 kilometres on flat gravel paths maintained by the City Parks Department. The route starts at the Annex Community Centre entrance and loops past the old boathouse, rated easy due to minimal elevation. A second entry-level path runs 2.7 kilometres through the Maple Grove area, organised by the Annex Fitness Collective with marked stations every 400 metres for stretching.
Longer and Steeper Options
The Highland Loop in Oakwood Hills spans 5.8 kilometres with two moderate hills, beginning at the corner of St Clair Avenue and Bathurst Street. Trail counters installed in 2024 recorded 18,400 passes last summer. The Annex Wellness Council survey from October 2025 found 62 percent of participants chose routes shorter than 4 kilometres for regular use.
Walkers can download the updated map from the Annex Parks Department website or attend free orientation sessions held every Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Riverside Park kiosk. Those new to the routes should check conditions after rain and carry water on warmer days.