Easy hikes and walks around Bradford West Gwillimbury

There's no large lake at Rogers Reservoir as you might expect due to the name. Instead, you'll find an old swing bridge and the remnants of an old canal lock that were part of an ill-fated plan to build a robust canal system around the East Holland River. That project was abandoned in the early 20th century and today the conservation area protects over 80 hectares on riparian habitat.

The East Holland River flows through Ontario on its way to Cook's Bay on Lake Simcoe. Here, near Newmarket, the river is flanked by the Nokiidaa Trail, allowing walkers, runners, and cyclists to explore its banks.

Getting its name from the Ojibwe term for "walking together" the Nokiidaa Trail links many parks and green spaces along the East Holland RIver. The trail is multi-use and the surface type varies from section to section as does the difficulty level, meaning that there is a portion of the Nokiidaa Trail that is just right for you to go walking together with friends and family.

Centennial Park is an IMBA-designed trail system that offers a network of woodland trails that wind through quiet forest, open clearings, and gently rolling terrain. The park is a popular destination for mountain bikers, so keep an eye out for others enjoying the trails while you’re here. With convenient parking, a picnic shelter, and several loop options, it’s an easy spot to explore on foot and enjoy a peaceful stretch of nature close to town.

This small pond is home to a variety of birds, especially ducks, and plenty of small fish, making it a fun spot to bring kids. The trails aren’t paved but are still easy to walk and bike-friendly. A short path leads out toward the middle of the pond, giving you a close look at the little ecosystem that forms around this quiet stretch of water.

Peggy’s Wood Tract is a forested loop with a mix of conifer stands, soft earth paths, and short stretches of gravel. The trail feels surprisingly natural for such an urban spot, with rooty sections, a few muddy patches, and the occasional fallen log to step over. It isn’t heavily signed, so having a map helps, especially at the smaller junctions. Despite being close to town, the woods stay peaceful, and you’ll often spot birds or small wildlife along the way. It’s a beautiful place to walk in any season, especially in the fall.

This park on the edge of Newmarket has a playground and access to trails that take you through the woodland. It can get busy, but once you hit the trail you can find a quiet spot to enjoy the natural beauty. The autumn color season is a especially great time to visit.

The Dave Kerwin Trail is an easy, family-friendly route with mostly flat, paved pathways. The trail winds through a mix of open space and shaded forest, making it a comfortable walk in most seasons. A standout feature is the elevated boardwalk that stretches across the treetops and offers a nice view of the surrounding landscape. With well-kept paths, plenty of greenery, and good bird-watching opportunities, it’s a relaxed spot for a simple walk outdoors.