Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs are one of Toronto's most dramatic natural features — a 15-kilometre stretch of towering sedimentary cliffs along the Lake Ontario shoreline in the city's east end. Rising up to 65 metres above the lake, these cliffs are made of glacial deposits over 12,000 years old and offer some of the most spectacular scenery within any major Canadian city.

Bluffer's Park is the primary family access point, located at the base of the bluffs where a road descends to a beach, marina, and picnic area at the water's edge. The beach here is Blue Flag certified during summer months, meaning it meets international standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management. The sand is soft, the water is calm relative to open lake beaches, and the setting — dwarfed by towering cliff faces on three sides — is genuinely awe-inspiring.

The beach at Bluffer's Park includes volleyball nets, picnic tables with barbecue stands, washroom and change room facilities, and seasonal food vendors. The flat, paved areas near the marina are stroller-friendly and give toddlers room to explore. A playground and splash pad are available in the parks at the top of the bluffs.

For hiking families, several trails traverse the bluff tops and ravines. The Scarborough Bluffs Trail runs along the cliff edge with viewpoints offering panoramic lake views — spectacular, but children must be supervised near unfenced sections. The Crescent Trail and Cathedral Trail descend through forested ravines, crossing bridges over ponds and passing through meadows rich with wildflowers and wildlife.

These trails are moderate in difficulty and suitable for children ages 5 and up.

The geological story of the bluffs is fascinating for curious kids. The exposed cliff faces show distinct layers of sand, clay, and gravel deposited during the last ice age. Sharp-eyed kids can spot fossils and interesting rock formations in the exposed sediment.

The Cathedral Bluffs Lookout (off Cathedral Bluffs Drive) provides a dramatic top-down view without requiring a hike — perfect for families who want the view without the trek.

Parking at Bluffer's Park is free but extremely limited. On summer weekends, police control access to the steep access road and close it when the lot fills, which can happen as early as 9AM. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday is essential during peak season. Alternatively, access the bluff top viewpoints from neighbourhood parks along Kingston Road, where parking is easier.

The Scarborough Bluffs are approximately 25 minutes east of downtown Toronto by car, or accessible via the 12 Kingston Rd bus from Victoria Park subway station.