10 Halton Hikes with a WOW Factor (Under 7 km)

For families who want a little more adventure — without going too far.

If your kids are ready for something beyond short loops and stroller-friendly strolls, this list is for you. Each of these Halton Region hikes falls between 3 and 7 km — long enough to feel like a real adventure, but manageable for families with school-aged kids or confident younger hikers.

These trails bring the wow: waterfalls, boardwalks, red shale hills, historic ruins, and soaring escarpment views. They’re designed for connection, curiosity, and memories you’ll talk about long after the boots come off.

Note: None of these trails are stroller-friendly — we recommend them for families with kids 6+ or little ones who love to hike on their own two feet.

Yaramenko-Ridley Park Boardwalk Trail (Campbellville)

This peaceful trail winds through wetlands and forest, with long stretches of boardwalk that feel magical underfoot. It’s quiet, scenic, and perfect for springtime discovery.

• Distance: ~7 km out and back
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for frogs and birdwatching
• Why You’ll Love It: Boardwalks, bird calls, and a tucked-away feel just minutes from the city
• Insider Tip: Bug spray is essential in summer — and so is a post-hike treat in nearby Campbellville

Scottsdale Farm to Silver Creek Loop (Georgetown)

Step into a slower time at Scottsdale Farm, then head into the forest on a gentle loop filled with creeks, bridges, and dappled sunlight. It’s a hike that feels like a storybook.

• Distance: ~5 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: September and October for fall colours
• Why You’ll Love It: A mix of heritage charm and forested trail with creekside views
• Insider Tip: Bring snacks and a blanket for a relaxing post-hike picnic near the farmhouse

Smokey Hollow Falls Trail (Waterdown)

This short, rugged trail delivers one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. Add stairs, bridges, and forest paths and you’ve got an outing that feels way bigger than its distance.

• Distance: ~3.5 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when water levels are high
• Why You’ll Love It: Escarpment views and a roaring waterfall you can hear before you see
• Insider Tip: Supervise young kids closely — there are steep sections and cliff edges

Cheltenham Badlands & Bruce Trail (Caledon)

The red, rippling shale hills of the Badlands are otherworldly, especially in golden light. Add in a short Bruce Trail hike and this becomes an unforgettable half-day escape.

• Distance: ~4 km out and back
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall for fewer crowds
• Why You’ll Love It: Unique landscape + forested Bruce Trail extension = one-of-a-kind day
• Insider Tip: Go early or late in the day and pair it with a stop at Spirit Tree Cidery

Crawford Lake to Nassagaweya Canyon Lookout (Milton)

A winding trail through ancient rock and shaded woods brings you to one of the most spectacular lookouts in Halton. You’ll feel miles away from it all.

• Distance: ~5.5 km out and back
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall
• Why You’ll Love It: Limestone outcrops, wooden boardwalks, and a canyon view you’ll remember
• Insider Tip: Visit the Iroquoian village at Crawford Lake before or after your hike

Limehouse Kiln Trail & Bruce Side Trails (Limehouse)

Old stone ruins, hidden crevices, and moss-covered forest make this a deeply atmospheric hike — like wandering through a forgotten world.

• Distance: ~4.5–5.5 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cool weather and dramatic light
• Why You’ll Love It: The “Hole in the Wall” rock crevice and the historic lime kilns
• Insider Tip: Wear solid shoes — the rocky terrain needs careful footing

More Outdoor Adventures in Halton:
If you’re ready to turn your weekend into a memory-making tradition, don’t miss our full Halton Day Trip Guide. You’ll find local gems, great stops for treats, and more ways to build your perfect family day.

Mount Nemo Lookout Loop (Burlington)

A quick hike that leads to clifftop views stretching across the countryside. If you time it right, you might spot birds of prey gliding past at eye level.

• Distance: ~3.5–4 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: Late summer evenings for golden-hour glow
• Why You’ll Love It: Big views in a short distance and dramatic escarpment drop-offs
• Insider Tip: Stay on marked trails — and bring binoculars if you want close-up views of the turkey vultures – or the CN Tower on a clear day!

Hilton Falls via Sixth Line Back Entrance (Milton)

Skip the main crowds and take the quiet forest route to Hilton Falls. Once there, climb down and explore the mossy mill ruins at the base — a favourite kid hangout.

• Distance: ~5.5–6 km out and back
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall
• Why You’ll Love It: Shaded trails, historic ruins, and a creek-fed waterfall you can get close to
• Insider Tip: No facilities here — bring water and an extra pair of socks for creek play

Rattlesnake Point – Vista Adventure Trail (Milton)

With sweeping views and ancient cedars rooted into sheer rock, this trail gives older kids a sense of scale and wildness without needing to go far.

• Distance: ~4.5 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: Fall for epic colour and crisp air
• Why You’ll Love It: Clifftop lookouts and forested paths that feel truly wild
• Insider Tip: Timed reservations are required on weekends and holidays — book early

Kelso Cliff Top Trail (Milton)

A heart-pumping climb leads to incredible views over the lake and ski slopes below. It’s one of the best bang-for-your-buck trails in the region.

• Distance: ~5 km loop
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall (note seasonal closures)
• Why You’ll Love It: Wide-open lookouts and the sense of accomplishment at the top
• Insider Tip: The summit access road is closed during ski season and early spring — check before you go

Final Thoughts

These medium-length hikes offer just the right amount of challenge for families who are ready to go a little farther. With sweeping lookouts, playful forest paths, and nature surprises along the way, they’re a reminder that the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Lace up, head out, and enjoy the middle-distance magic. You’re building memories that last a lifetime.

You only get one chance to live this life with your kids.

Let’s make it count — outside.
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Related Posts You’ll Love

• 10 Best Halton Day Trips for Outdoorsy Families
• 10 Halton Hikes Under 3km for Little Explorers
• 10 Stunning Waterfall Hikes in Ontario

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