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From Ravines to Waterfronts, Discover the Most Scenic Fall Rides in Toronto

Toronto in the fall is nothing short of spectacular. As the city’s tree-lined streets and vast urban parks transform into shades of crimson, amber, and gold, there’s no better way to take it all in than from the seat of your bike. Whether you’re chasing lakeside views, urban trails, or peaceful escapes into nature, Toronto offers a variety of cycling routes perfect for a crisp autumn ride.

In this guide, we’ll highlight 8 Toronto bike rides you need to do in the fall, complete with distances, scenic highlights, and details on whether Toronto Bike Share makes them accessible.

1. Martin Goodman Trail

Distance: 22 km (from Mimico in the west to the Beaches in the east)
Bike Share Access: Yes (multiple stations along the route)

The Martin Goodman Trail is Toronto’s premier waterfront cycling route. Stretching across the city, it connects key lakefront destinations and provides a flat, easy ride perfect for all levels.

Why ride it in the fall? With cooler air off Lake Ontario and fewer crowds, fall is the perfect time to ride the entire length. The mix of parks, beaches, and skyline views is unbeatable.

Highlights:

Humber Bay Arch Bridge and Toronto skyline views
Stops at Harbourfront Centre or Sugar Beach
Fall colours in Ashbridges Bay Park

2. Humber Bay Shores & Humber River Trail

Distance: 11 km (Humber Bay to Old Mill)
Bike Share Access: Yes (stations near Humber Bay Shores Park)

Humber Bay is a classic Toronto waterfront ride, especially in the fall when the lake breezes are crisp and the skyline views are crystal clear. Starting at Humber Bay Shores Park, you can ride along the waterfront and connect north onto the Humber River Trail, which winds through wooded areas and parks.

Why ride it in the fall? The Humber River valley bursts with fall colour, and if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of salmon making their way upstream.

Highlights:

Iconic Humber Bay Arch Bridge
Salmon run at Etienne Brulé Park
Expansive views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline

3. Don Valley Trails

Distance: Up to 32 km (connected trail system)
Bike Share Access: Yes (stations at Evergreen Brick Works and near trail entrances)

The Don Valley Trails provide a surprising escape into nature right in the heart of the city. Running from Taylor Creek Park in the east down to the waterfront, this trail network offers rolling paths through wooded ravines.

Why ride it in the fall? The ravines are lined with sugar maples, which create a kaleidoscope of oranges and reds. It’s also one of the best places to feel completely removed from the city without leaving it.

Highlights:

Fall foliage at Crothers Woods
Stops at Evergreen Brick Works for coffee or a snack
A mix of paved and hard-packed trails for variety

4. Etobicoke Creek Trail

Distance: 11 km within Toronto, longer if extended north into Mississauga
Bike Share Access: Yes (bikes available at Longbranch GO and Marie Curtis Park)

The Etobicoke Creek Trail is less well-known but worth the trip west. This path follows the creek through lush valleys, parkland, and quiet residential areas.

Why ride it in the fall? The trail is quieter than many downtown routes, and the mix of hardwood trees along the creek creates a vibrant canopy of colour. It’s a more secluded ride, perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Highlights:

Creekside riding with little traffic
Birdwatching opportunities
Access to Marie Curtis Park at Lake Ontario

5. Leslie Street Spit (Tommy Thompson Park)

Distance: 10 km (round trip along the main spine)
Bike Share Access: Yes (stations near Cherry Beach, but not inside the park)

The Leslie Street Spit, also known as Tommy Thompson Park, offers one of Toronto’s most unique bike rides. This man-made peninsula extends 5 km into Lake Ontario and is now a thriving wildlife sanctuary.

Why ride it in the fall? The Spit is prime bird migration territory, and the views of Lake Ontario framed by autumn foliage are unbeatable. It’s also quieter in the cooler months, making it easier to enjoy the solitude.

Highlights:

Toronto skyline views from the lighthouse
Birdwatching during fall migration
Lakeside trails surrounded by water on both sides

6. High Park

Distance: 5–8 km of trails and loops
Bike Share Access: Yes (stations at park entrances)

Toronto’s largest park is a cycling paradise, with paved roads, trails, and scenic loops. While it’s popular in spring for cherry blossoms, fall is equally stunning with its massive oaks, maples, and sumac turning brilliant shades.

Why ride it in the fall? High Park feels like an urban forest. You’ll ride through rolling hills, quiet ponds, and tree-lined roads that glow in the autumn light.

Highlights:

Grenadier Pond framed by fall colours
Car-free roads on weekends
A mix of paved and gravel paths

7. Centre Island & Toronto Islands

Distance: Varies (5–10 km loops)
Bike Share Access: Yes (bikes are available on the island)

For a true escape, hop on the ferry and cycle the Toronto Islands. The islands are car-free, making them one of the best places to ride at a relaxed pace.

Why ride it in the fall? The summer crowds are gone, leaving peaceful paths, quiet beaches, and incredible views of the city skyline framed by fall colours.

Highlights:

Skyline views from Ward’s Island Beach
Lighthouse at Gibraltar Point
Serene, traffic-free riding

8. Beltline Trail

Distance: 9 km (one way)
Bike Share Access: Yes (stations near Mount Pleasant Cemetery and along Yonge Street)

The Beltline Trail is one of Toronto’s hidden cycling gems, offering a peaceful ride through forested ravines and residential neighbourhoods. Built on a former rail line, the trail stretches for about 9 km, connecting Allen Road to the Don Valley.

Why ride it in the fall? The Beltline is surrounded by mature maples and oaks, creating a vibrant tunnel of colour in September and October. It’s also relatively flat, making it ideal for casual riders or families.

Highlights:

Autumn colours in Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Ravine views near Moore Park
Quiet, car-free cycling

Tips for Fall Cycling in Toronto

Layer up: Fall weather can change quickly—bring a windproof jacket and gloves.
Watch the leaves: Wet leaves can be slippery, especially in shaded ravines.
Plan for daylight: Since days are shorter in the fall, plan your rides earlier.
Use Bike Share: Toronto Bike Share has over 9,000 bikes and 700 stations, making many of these routes accessible without owning a bike.

Cycling in Toronto during the fall is about more than just exercise—it’s about experiencing the city at its most colourful and vibrant. From the peaceful Beltline Trail to the wide-open views of the Martin Goodman Trail and the serenity of Centre Island, these 8 rides showcase the very best of autumn in Toronto.

So grab your bike (or rent one with Bike Share) and make the most of the season before winter rolls in.