Southwestern Ontario

Explore Canada's largest trail network  

There’s so much to see in Southwestern Ontario. You’ve got the natural beauty and beaches of two Great Lakes, towering limestone cliffs and rare Carolinian forests. You can venture out to Point Pelee, the southernmost point of mainland Canada – one of North America’s famed birding spots.

Tour a designated UNESCO world biosphere region at Long Point Provincial Park. History buffs will want to trek along the route of the secret Underground Railway that once carried American slaves to freedom in Canada. Other trails are built on old rail lines. In fact, the 32-kilometre Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail is Ontario's first entirely off-road, interurban hiking and biking trail. The railway, affectionately known as "To Hell and Back", was completed as a rail trail in 1996.

Canada's largest network of recreational trails runs through the area. Look for the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail, the Avon Trail, the Guelph-Speed Trail, the Thames Valley Trail and major sections of the Bruce Trail.

This is a great year-round area with much to do in all seasons. Many of the trails along rivers will take you through charming towns. Follow the Avon River through Stratford and you’ll be accompanied by graceful swans and ducks.