Trails & Hiking

Mulmur Township is hiking country of the highest order — literally. The Niagara Escarpment reaches its greatest elevation within the township, and the Bruce Trail, Ontario's oldest and longest marked footpath, traverses some of its most dramatic terrain here. Whether you are a seasoned long-distance hiker or someone who simply enjoys a walk in the woods, Mulmur's trail network offers experiences that rank among the best in southern Ontario.

The Bruce Trail in Mulmur

The Bruce Trail runs 900 kilometres from Niagara to Tobermory, but many experienced hikers consider the sections through Mulmur and the adjoining Hockley Valley to be among the finest on the entire route. Here, the trail follows the crest of the Niagara Escarpment through mature hardwood forest, crosses deep ravines, and arrives at lookout points that offer views stretching east across the Nottawasaga River valley.

The Mulmur sections fall within the Toronto Bruce Trail Club's territory and benefit from dedicated maintenance by local volunteers who keep the trail clear, well-blazed, and accessible. The signature white blazes are supplemented by blue-blazed side trails that loop to additional viewpoints, geological features, and quiet corners of the forest.

Notable Sections

The stretch of the Bruce Trail that passes through the Boyne Valley offers some of the most varied hiking in the area. Beginning at the Boyne Valley Provincial Park, the trail descends into a deep valley carved by the Pine River, passes through stands of old-growth cedar and hemlock, and climbs back to the escarpment crest through a forest that feels ancient and undisturbed.

Further south, the trail passes through the Hockley Valley, where the terrain becomes more rugged and the forest cover more varied. Here, mature sugar maples and American beeches dominate the canopy, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere in summer and an extraordinary display of colour in autumn. The lookout points along this section rank among the best viewpoints accessible by trail in all of southern Ontario.

Hockley Valley Provincial Nature Reserve

Located nearby in the Town of Mono, this protected area encompasses a significant stretch of escarpment and valley terrain just south of Mulmur. The nature reserve protects old-growth forest, rare plant communities, and geological features that are significant at a provincial level. Hiking here is a more contemplative experience — the trails are quieter, the forest is older, and the sense of being in a truly natural landscape is strong.

The reserve is easily accessible from Mulmur via the sideroads that border it, and the Bruce Trail passes through its heart. Spring wildflower season — typically May into early June — is particularly rewarding here, with trilliums, hepatica, and bloodroot carpeting the forest floor.

Mansfield Outdoor Centre Trails

The Mansfield Outdoor Centre, while primarily an educational facility, offers trail access to the surrounding forests. The trail network here is well-maintained and includes loops of various lengths suitable for families and less experienced hikers. In winter, these trails become some of the best cross-country skiing routes in the region.

The terrain is gentler than the escarpment sections — rolling hills through mixed forest and open fields — making it an accessible starting point for visitors who are new to hiking in the area.

Conservation Areas & Nature Walks

Several conservation areas in and around Mulmur offer shorter walks and nature trails that provide accessible alternatives to the more demanding escarpment routes. These areas typically feature well-groomed paths, interpretive signage, and gentler terrain suitable for all fitness levels and ages.

The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority manages several properties in the area that are open to the public. These lands protect important watershed areas and provide walking opportunities through riverine forests, meadows, and wetlands that complement the escarpment trails.

Seasonal Trail Guide

Spring (April - May)

Trails can be muddy as the frost leaves the ground, but the wildflower displays make it worthwhile. The forest floor comes alive with colour before the canopy fills in, and the birdsong is at its peak. Bring waterproof boots and expect some wet sections.

Summer (June - August)

Full canopy provides shade on even the warmest days. The trails are at their driest and most accessible. Bring water — the elevation means some climbs are more demanding than they appear. Early morning hikes avoid the midday warmth and offer the best chance of wildlife sightings.

Autumn (September - November)

The premier season for hiking in Mulmur. The fall colours along the escarpment are extraordinary, and the cooler temperatures make longer hikes comfortable. Peak colour typically arrives in the first two weeks of October. Trails can be busier during colour season, particularly on weekends — consider a midweek visit for a quieter experience.

Winter (December - March)

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing replace hiking on many trails. The Bruce Trail remains hikeable with appropriate footwear, and winter hiking offers unique rewards — views through bare branches that summer foliage conceals, animal tracks in the snow, and a solitude that the other seasons do not always provide. Dress in layers and be prepared for conditions that can be significantly colder than in the lowlands.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors? Explore our full guide to outdoor recreation in Mulmur, including cycling, paddling, fishing, and seasonal activities beyond the trails.