Anewen Greenbelt (7.2 km)

The portion of the East Don Trail through Anewen Greenbelt is one of Toronto's best-kept secrets. It's disconnected from the popular trails at West Don and Taylor Creek, so it gets less traffic. But those who visit are rewarded with vistas of meandering rivers, multiple bridges, and curiosities like art installations and a rainbow tunnel.

We don't usually rate difficulty of hikes because every person's capabilities are different and they should do their own research. However, other hiking groups in Toronto would rate this as an intermediate to advanced hike.

Parts of the East Don Trail are under construction until 2030. However, the entire route can still be traversed on unsanctioned trails, so use at your own risk.

We start with relaxed paved trails. The difficulty ramps up sharply as we head into mountain biking trails. In order: Over the Rainbow, Kitchen Ridge, Wigmore Creek Run, Everything But, Garb City, Ketchin Hell, and Lookout Loop. Expect lots of hills, steep slippery descents, narrow sections, and mosquitoes.

If you haven't realized, there isn't much food on this hike. No foraging allowed in city parks. So, the only time we'll eat is at the end. Decadent butter tarts and croissants await at a bakery in a surprising industrial location.

This hike will be postponed if the trails are muddy from rain.

Highlights

1. Aga Khan Museum (depart 11am)
2. Former Japanese Cultural Centre
3. High Water art installation
4. East Don Trestle
5. Rainbow Tunnel
6. Secret hideout
7. Ravine of Anewen Greenbelt
8. Double bridges across Don River East (depart 12:10pm)
9. Several log bridges and an occupied but abandoned bathtub
10. Lookout to East Don Valley
11. Circles and Squares Bakery (arrive 1:15pm)

Neighbourhoods
Wynford-Concorde > Victoria Village

Map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1U1K2aIxxuB-sC6p5vIWpfgGtL7ZLDTU&usp=sharing

Undulating terrain. Multiple steep, narrow, eroded paths.

Some tall bushes. Please wear appropriate clothing to avoid ticks and other nasty stuff. Footwear with a good tread will help with descents. Hiking poles are helpful.

Please observe trail etiquette. Keep to the trail to avoid ecologically-sensitive areas and give way to bikes.

No toilets or drinking water en route.

How it works
Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints.

See our About section for more info.