Hiking Trail Guide: 7 Must-Try Routes from Easy to Elevated

Whether you’re new to hiking or looking to conquer a serious climb, we’ve got a trail for you. With over 30km of hiking terrain winding through forests, open meadows, escarpment ridges and waterfalls, the mountain offers more than just a pretty view—though there’s plenty of that too! Here’s your go-to guide for seven must-try trails, sorted by difficulty level and filled with fun facts, scenic lookouts, and trail highlights to help you pick your next on-mountain adventure. 🟢 Beginner Trails 1. Time Line This trail isn’t just a walk—it’s a walk through time. Time Line is a relaxed, family-friendly multi-use trail that brings the mountain’s history to life with interpretive signage highlighting key milestones in Blue Mountain’s history. With a paved flat walkway, it’s the perfect intro to hiking or a calming midday nature break. Bonus: it links easily with other beginner routes if you’re in the mood to go farther. 2. Sticks & Stones Don’t let the name fool you—this trail is anything but rough. Sticks & Stones loops through a peaceful wooded area along parts of the Bruce Trail, and offers a surprising payoff: a quiet wooden platform lookout tucked just off the trail, with sweeping views of the Village and Georgian Bay in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take a deep breath, and soak in the natural beauty. 🟦 Intermediate Trails 3. Apple Bowl Once the site of working apple orchards, this open-sky trail offers rolling terrain and beautiful sightlines to the Village and surrounding landscape. A standout feature is the Apple Bowl Lookout, a raised platform offering a panoramic perspective of the escarpment, Village, and beyond—especially stunning at golden hour. It’s a great reward for a manageable hike. 4. Memory Lane Looping its way through the escarpment, this intermediate hike follows the path of the ski run it’s named after and leads to the Memory Garden lookout, a peaceful mountaintop space created in honour of loved ones connected to the mountain community. With benches, native plantings, and a breathtaking view across the Niagara Escarpment, the lookout invites hikers to pause and reflect, ideal for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy a quieter moment with the landscape. ◆ Expert Trails 5. Cascade Trail If you’re after that “wow” moment, Cascade delivers. This expert-rated trail climbs alongside Cascade waterfall and offers steep terrain, switchbacks, and shaded forest paths. It’s a heart-pumping climb with incredible rewards at the top, making it a favourite among seasoned hikers. Pro tip: wear shoes with good traction; this one’s a workout. 6. The Grind Think of The Grind as your vertical challenge. This trail lives up to its name and is a go-to for hikers who want a physical test as you’ll be climbing quickly through rugged terrain. It’s a favourite among local runners, bikers, and fitness buffs training for that next uphill goal. Hit this one early before the sun is high—you’ll thank yourself later. 7. 1940 Trail Named for the year Blue Mountain was founded, the 1940 trail is both a physical journey and a nod to the resort’s roots. Short but steep, it takes you through beautiful tree-covered ascents. The views from the top are breathtaking, especially when wildflowers bloom in early summer. Plan Your Hike To access hiking trails at Blue Mountain, you’ll need a valid ticket or season pass, and the proper gear to take on the terrain. Before heading out, don’t forget: You can also check out our Hiking Education Guide for even more things to know before you go! Whether you’re out for a casual stroll or chasing summit views, Blue Mountain’s hiking trails are the perfect way to get outside, get moving, and reconnect with nature.