Donate today to create beloved public places that help us connect with nature and with each other.
DonatePublished on November 20, 2024 by Ethan Rotberg, Senior Communications Specialist | Evergreen
Who says you have to leave the city to connect with nature?
Even in the depths of winter, urban trails across Canada offer a chance to bundle up, head outdoors and rediscover the beauty of the season. Plus, walking through your city is one of the best ways to connect with it, offering a fresh perspective on familiar surroundings.
Looking for a new trail to explore this season in some of Canada’s largest cities? Grab your mittens and take a hike!
Stretching along False Creek from English Bay to Granville Island, the seawall path may be the most scenic place in Canada to go for a stroll, jog or bike ride. Even in the winter, the path remains accessible for walkers and cyclists, providing a flat, easy route perfect for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll. Both sides of the seawall are good options, with the south side offering the best views of the city skyline and snow-dusted mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks like Science World and Granville Island, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a warm drink or take in the scenery.
Primarily a skating trail when the temperatures dip low enough, the Forks Riverwalk also offers a unique winter experience for walkers. At its maximum distance, the six-kilometre trail follows the curves of the Red and Assiniboine rivers. With scenic city views, historical landmarks, and easy access to amenities at The Forks Market, this urban trail is a perfect blend of nature and culture. Don’t want to skate? You can also cruise the trail on ice bikes, kicksleds, showhoes and more.
The Chain of Lakes Trail is a well-maintained, multi-use trail that runs through the heart of Halifax, offering a fantastic option for a winter walk. Stretching approximately 7 kilometres, it follows the path of a former rail line, making it flat and easy to navigate, even when snow is on the ground. The trail winds through urban neighbourhoods, peaceful wooded areas, and alongside scenic lakes, providing a blend of city and nature.
The Lachine Canal Trail offers a unique winter walking experience through Montreal’s historic industrial heart. Maintained throughout the colder months, the path follows the canal, with frozen waters and old factories providing a mix of urban and natural backdrops. The path opened in 1977 — making it one of the oldest such paths in Montreal. Parks Canada typically grooms the snow on a large section of the path each winter, meaning it gets compacted for use by snowshoes and fat bikes, or for those just taking a stroll.
Spanning over 11,00 hectares, the ravines are one of the city’s most beloved and defining natural features, forming a primary connection to the urban wilderness and linking river valleys with parks and neighbourhoods. The mix of forested paths, frozen streams and occasional city views creates a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection or simply soaking in the season. We may be a bit biased, but we think starting at Evergreen Brick Works is a great way to experience the ravines and a thriving public space. Visitors can walk north to explore the trail along the Moore Park Ravine, or south to explore the trail along the Don River Valley. Grab a coffee or hot chocolate before you go or wrap up at our popular markets!
Getting to Evergreen Brick Works
Help us keep public spaces thriving
Some of the best moments are made possible by great public places. Strolling through a market, ice skating, hiking with friends: public spaces encourage us to put down our phones and make lasting memories with the people we love most.
These spaces are where acquaintances become friends; where families play together; and where we learn and experience new cultures. Donate today to help keep our public spaces thriving for generations to come. Let’s put our phones down, connect with loved ones, and enjoy the great outdoors this holiday season!
