Exploring Ontario’s Natural Wonders Without a Car

Ontario is home to breathtaking natural attractions, many of which can be enjoyed as day trips using public transit. Whether you’re a local seeking adventure or a visitor aiming to experience the best of southern Ontario, Niagara Falls, the Hamilton waterfalls, and the Scarborough Bluffs offer memorable escapes – all easily accessible without a car. Here’s how to make the most of these destinations using GO Transit, local buses, and a bit of planning.

Jump to a section:
Niagara Falls: The Iconic Experience
Hamilton Waterfalls: The City of Waterfalls
Scarborough Bluffs: Toronto’s Lakeside Escape

Niagara Falls: The Iconic Experience

No list of Ontario day trips is complete without Niagara Falls. Famous worldwide for its awe-inspiring cascade, the Falls are accessible via GO Transit’s Niagara service from Toronto’s Union Station. The ride is comfortable and scenic, taking approximately two hours. Upon arrival at Niagara Falls GO Station, local WEGO buses will whisk you to the main attraction, as well as Clifton Hill’s entertainment strip, hiking trails, and lookout points.

Sample Full Day Schedule: Niagara Falls

• 8:00 am: Depart Toronto Union Station via GO Transit Niagara train.
• 10:00 am: Arrive at Niagara Falls; transfer to WEGO bus to reach the falls.
• 10:30 am: Take in the spectacular view from Table Rock Centre. Pick up a snack and snap photos as the morning mist rises.
• 11:30 am: Journey Behind the Falls experience (ticketed attraction for close-up views).
• 12:30 pm: Stroll along Niagara Parkway to Clifton Hill for lunch at a local restaurant.
• 1:30 pm: Explore Clifton Hill’s attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel, wax museums, and arcade.
• 3:00 pm: Visit the Butterfly Conservatory or Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens (reachable by WEGO).
• 4:30 pm: Walk the riverside trail or stop at a souvenir shop.
• 5:30 pm: Relax at Queen Victoria Park with a treat from a nearby café.
• 6:30 pm: Board WEGO bus back to the GO station.
• 7:00 pm: Catch evening GO Transit train to Toronto.

Transit Tips for Niagara Falls

• GO Transit Niagara Weekend Service operates from spring to fall; check the schedule for off-season options.
• WEGO bus passes can be purchased at the station or online for unlimited daily rides.
• Consider booking tickets for attractions ahead of time during peak season.

Hamilton Waterfalls: The City of Waterfalls

Hamilton is renowned for having more than 100 waterfalls, many nestled along the Niagara Escarpment. The city is a quick train or bus ride from Toronto, with GO Transit offering frequent service to Hamilton GO Centre. From there, local HSR buses connect to popular waterfall trails such as Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and the picturesque Tiffany Falls.

Sample Full Day Schedule: Hamilton Waterfalls

• 8:00 am: Depart Toronto Union Station via GO Transit train or express bus to Hamilton GO Centre.
• 9:00 am: Arrive in Hamilton; grab coffee and breakfast downtown.
• 9:30 am: Catch HSR bus to Webster’s Falls; enjoy an early morning hike and photography.
• 11:00 am: Walk or take local transit to Tews Falls and Dundas Peak for panoramic views.
• 12:30 pm: Picnic lunch in Spencer Gorge Conservation Area (bring your own or purchase in Dundas).
• 1:30 pm: HSR bus to Albion Falls. Explore the trails and cascading waters.
• 3:00 pm: Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens or stroll through Gage Park.
• 4:30 pm: Browse shops or enjoy a drink at a local café in the Locke Street neighbourhood.
• 5:30 pm: Return downtown; have dinner at one of Hamilton’s vibrant eateries.
• 7:00 pm: Board GO Transit train or bus back to Toronto.

Transit Tips for Hamilton Waterfalls

• Plan your route using the HSR (Hamilton Street Railway) website or app.
• Packing a picnic is recommended, as food options near some falls are limited.
• Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be slippery.

Scarborough Bluffs: Toronto’s Lakeside Escape

Closer to downtown Toronto, the Scarborough Bluffs offer dramatic cliffs overlooking Lake Ontario, sandy beaches, and scenic trails. TTC buses from Kennedy or Scarborough Centre stations will drop you near Bluffers Park, one of the region’s top spots for photography and relaxation.

Sample Full Day Schedule: Scarborough Bluffs

• 9:00 am: Depart from Kennedy or Scarborough Centre on TTC bus to Bluffers Park.
• 9:30 am: Arrive at Bluffers Park. Take a morning walk along the cliffs and shoreline.
• 10:30 am: Enjoy breakfast or coffee at the local marina café.
• 11:00 am: Explore hiking trails leading to scenic lookout points. Capture lake views and wildflowers.
• 12:30 pm: Picnic lunch at the beach or park tables.
• 1:30 pm: Swim or relax on the sandy beach; lifeguards are on duty in summer.
• 3:00 pm: Rent a kayak or paddleboard (seasonal) or simply lounge in the sun.
• 4:30 pm: Stroll through the marina and spot local wildlife.
• 5:30 pm: Early dinner at a lakeside restaurant or bring snacks for a sunset viewing.
• 7:00 pm: Head back to the TTC for your return journey downtown.

Transit Tips for Scarborough Bluffs

• TTC bus routes 12, 102, and 175 serve the Bluffs area; check schedules for weekend service.
• Arrive early for the best views and quieter trails.
• Swimming is permitted at Bluffers Beach; lifeguards are present in summer.

Planning Your Transit Adventure

Travelling by public transit not only reduces your carbon footprint but also makes these day trips more affordable and accessible. Always check current schedules for GO Transit, local transit agencies, and connecting buses, as times may vary seasonally. Pack essentials like water, snacks, sun protection, and a map or mobile app for navigation. For a truly Canadian experience, don’t forget your toque and a sense of adventure!

Whether you’re marveling at Niagara Falls, wandering Hamilton’s waterfalls, or relaxing atop the Scarborough Bluffs, Ontario’s natural wonders are just a transit ride away. Enjoy the journey and make the most of your day trips by transit.