The open central portion of Scout Valley had some very impressive fall colors during my recent trip. I was able to get some excellent photos along the main trail as well as the observation deck. Apparently the area is popular with locals as there were several other photographers around that day. The entire area is highly accessible although this is a bit of a downside too. Much of the perimeter trails run near busy roads which the trees do little to muffle. You don't really feel like you're in nature until much deeper into the forest. Another highlight which I stumbled upon by accident was a stream running through the central region. Lots of frogs and toads around.
One of my favourite spots in Orillia. Great place to go for walk with the dog or on your own. Multiple trails to walk around through the forest. Access points off of Old Barrie Rd and also line 15. Close to town, but doesn't feel like it. Love it!
This is a very nice place to walk in Orillia. I like to take my dog there to run . The view at the top is great but there are lots of trails that go far into the valley that you probably wont see anyone for a while. Nice little river in the valley to stop when the bugs arent too bad.
Scout Valley has nice 20 minute walking trails through the woods. There is a pretty stream, and if you string together all the marked trails you could walk for a couple hours without repeating any paths.We take our dog, and although in all these parks they should be on-lead, we take her off. Others take their dogs here for the same experience.Very clean area, friendly hikers, not too challenging.Watch for thousands of trilliums in late May to early June!
If you like to go for a walk with a view this is for you. It is an easy hiking trail - wonderful any time of year. The view from the top is special.
There are a couple different access points and some really nice trails in here with varying difficulty. The trails are clearly marked and the terrain is pretty good to hike on. Elevation does go up and down in some areas too to add a bit of a challenge.
Scout Valley is a great place to take a hike, walk the dog, get some exercise, get some fresh air and enjoy some local nature. Unfortunately, you will be able to hear the highway, or maybe the cement factory, depending on the wind... Despite that, for an urban park? It is well worth the hike!
Absolutely spectacular; right in my own backyard for 35 years & just this year marveled at the snowshoeing available. Can hardly wait till spring,summer & fall. Make sure we NEVER lose it to development etc
This is an forested area that provides natural hiking trails for those that need to get away from the concrete and asphalt once in a while. I consider essential to Orillia much like Central Park to New York City.
Scout Valley is located close to Orillia, south of Old Barrie Road, and directly west of Highway 11, and can be accessed off of dedicated parking lots adjacent to Barrie Road and Line 15. The terrain can be challenging the closer one gets to the aforementioned roadways, but for the hiker / fitness buff in you, worth the extra effort. Fall is an excellent time to check out the property and enjoy the vibrant colors from meandering paths and sparkling brooks from sturdy foot bridges. The only down sides of Scout Valley are the highway noise (hard to avoid given its location adjacent to a busy highway 11), as well as canines that are allowed to roam off leash. Dog owners love the leash free free environment of Scout Valley, although non dog owners may not appreciate large dogs with unknown intentions rambling up to them out of the blue, with their owners not in sight. A case can be made for carrying dog spray, or a walking stick / pole, when hiking the trail alone. On the other hand, if you are a dog owner and driving from Toronto to Muskoka, a rest stop at Scout Valley should be at or near the top of your list to exercise and rehydrate your canine on your journey north.