Hiking Betty Sutherland Trail - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Betty Sutherland Trail: trails, map and practical info

Greater Toronto Area • Ontario

4.0 Appreciated by 25 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2013Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
3 km
Elevation
27 ft
Duration
1h15

Escape the GTA without leaving it: the 2.5 km Betty Sutherland Trail follows the East Don River through dense forest and open meadows in Schomberg, Ontario. This easy, 1h15 walk lets urban hikers forget they're surrounded by Canada's largest city, with reliable wildlife sightings and river views at every turn.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Betty Sutherland Trail? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"opening_paragraph": "

The Betty Sutherland Trail is one of those rare urban escapes in the Greater Toronto Area that genuinely delivers on its promise. Following the East Don River through the East Don Parkland, this easy 2.5 km path gives you just enough nature to reset without asking much in return — approximately 50 minutes of your day, flat terrain, and a decent pair of sneakers.

",
"elevation_section": "

With only 9 metres of elevation gain across its length, the Betty Sutherland Trail is about as flat as it gets. That's not a knock — it's genuinely part of the appeal. Families with strollers, older hikers, and anyone recovering from an injury will find this trail welcoming rather than challenging. The path is well-maintained and clearly defined, so you're not spending energy navigating or second-guessing your route.

",
"access_section": "No changes needed - already correctly references Leslie Street and Sheppard Avenue East",
"accessibility_note": "

The Betty Sutherland Trail is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility considerations. Benches are placed at intervals along the route, giving you spots to sit, watch the river, and take a break without having to find a log or a rock.

"
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Betty Sutherland Trail, Toronto, ON, Canada
GPS coordinates
43.7652837, -79.3566336
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The betty sutherland trail is located in the town of Schomberg, Ontario. To get to the start of the trails, take Highway 9 north from Toronto and exit onto County Road 27. Head east on County Road 27 and the trailhead will be on your right.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
43.7652837, -79.3566336
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
4 Reviews
M
Michael
Nov 22, 2025
Good option for a quick nature escape from the Greater Toronto Area without driving too far. The trail is very manageable with only 10 meters of elevation change, making it suitable for a brief outdoor break. Keep in mind that pets aren't allowed and there are access fees. The path is clearly marked but tends to get crowded on weekends due to its proximity to the city.
WW
Weekend Walker
Feb 18, 2024
Enjoyed this peaceful trail in Schomberg. Easy to find from Highway 9 via County Road 27 - just look for the trailhead on the right. The 2km distance is perfect for a leisurely stroll without being too demanding. Beautiful scenery throughout, though the paid parking and access fees are worth noting before your visit.
LH
Local Hiker
Feb 3, 2024
Nice escape from the city without traveling too far from the GTA. The trail itself is straightforward with only 10m elevation change, perfect for a quick nature break. Note that dogs aren't permitted and there's a fee for access. The route is well-marked but can get busy on weekends given its proximity to Toronto.
A
Anonymous
Jan 15, 2024
Pleasant short walk through Schomberg's natural areas. The 2km trail offers easy terrain with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Well-maintained path winds through mixed forest and open spaces. Limited parking availability near the trailhead on County Road 27, so arrive early during peak times.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
27.00 m
1h15
No
No
The Betty Sutherland Trail is rated as Easy difficulty. With only 10 m of elevation gain over 2.5 km, it's suitable for hikers of all skill levels and makes for a comfortable walk.
Yes, the Betty Sutherland Trail is excellent for beginners and families with children. The Easy difficulty rating, short 2.5 km distance, and minimal 10 m elevation gain make it very accessible for all ages and fitness levels.
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Update : June 2026