Colonel Samuel Smith Park Skating Trail

As Toronto’s first dedicated ice skating trail, this figure-eight loop remains a premier destination for those looking to escape the downtown grind without leaving the city. Designed by PMA Landscape Architects and opened in 2010, the 250-metre refrigerated path winds through a serene, wooded stretch of shoreline in Etobicoke, right next to the historic Power House Recreation Centre. The atmosphere is distinctly more relaxed than the high-energy rinks at Nathan Phillips Square or the Harbourfront, making it a favourite for locals who prefer a quieter, nature-focused glide. The proximity to Lake Ontario adds a crisp, refreshing quality to the air, and the surrounding parkland—once part of a psychiatric hospital campus—offers a unique, slightly haunting historical backdrop that feels worlds away from the urban bustle.

Practicality is key here: there are no skate rentals or food concessions on-site, so come prepared with your own gear and a thermos of hot chocolate. The Power House building provides a large, heated change room with washrooms and open cubbies for your shoes, which is a massive plus on freezing days. Admission is free, and while it stays open daily, it is best to visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid the weekend family rush. Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak times. If you are looking for a post-skate treat, Tatsu’s Bread on Lake Shore Boulevard is a fantastic local spot to warm up with a pastry, though do check their hours as they are closed on Sundays.