Toronto ravines are some of the most discerning attributes of the city with a massive forest of trails stretching every inch of the urban landscape. Picturesque river valleys can be found behind just about any one of the major streets, offering up heaps of options for a nature stroll. 

Here are some ravines to explore next time you're in search of some fresh air.

Burke Brook Ravine

Stretching from Sunnybrook Park to Sherwood Park, this tongue-twisting natural ravine area follows Burke Brook. Inside the borders of Sherwood Park, a series of wooden boardwalks lead through trees that can be over 150 years old. It's also a dream for anyone with a dog as the entire trail is an off-leash area. 

Cedarvale Ravine

Found between Eglinton West and St. Clair West stations, Cedarvale is one of the more accessible ravine walks in the city. The 2.5-kilometre trail leads through a wetland, and the north end of the ravine features a dog park and steep hills for tobogganing in the wintertime. 

Lower Don Valley

Running all the way from E.T. Seton Park to Corktown Common with plenty of sights along the way, the Lower Don has to be one of the most-frequented natural spots in the city. Don't miss Crothers Woods – it's a real gem – or the epic gargoyle statues. 

Warden Woods 

Warden Woods is a nice spot for a secluded walk in a vibrant old-growth forest. The trail winds between steep valley slopes, featuring high sandbanks along the Taylor-Massey Creek created over centuries of erosion. 

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David A. Balfour Park

The beautiful gated space of Rosehill Gardens is the centrepiece at David Balfour. The area is full of fresh blooms in springtime. The trails set high over the ravine are nice too, though some may be blocked off due to ongoing construction on the reservoir. 

Bellamy Ravine Creek

The Doris McCarthy Trail leads steeply down into this ravine before hitting Lake Ontario, where you'll find expansive views of the water and the Bluffs. There's also a large steel sculpture at the base of the Lake. Trails head east and west offering up even more views.

Coxwell Ravine Park

Walk down a 100-step staircase and through a narrow path surrounded by tall grass to access this under-the-radar ravine. You'll feel transported from the city as you explore all of the side trails deep in the forest, even with the sounds of the DVP off in the distance. 

Highland Creek Ravine

Highland Creek runs from Highland Creek Park over to Morningside Park, then all the way south through Colonel Danforth Park to the Lake. The lesser-known section of Highland Creek Park has rapids, wildlife and picturesque sand cliffs along the shoreline. 

Glen Stewart Ravine

This outdoor oasis acts as the Beaches' very own Narnia. An elevated boardwalk leads through a lush forest of rare red oak and maple trees and witch hazel shrubs. Plenty of winding staircases also bring you up to expansive lookouts where you can take in the scenery and spot a few critters (though Reepicheep himself has yet to make an appearance). 

Humber River Valley

Snaking its way about 100 kilometres from its source at Oak Ridges Moraine, Humber River is an impressive waterway, and the ravine surrounding it is beautiful. Humber Marshes, Lambton Woods and James Garden are a few must-see treasures lining the river. There's also a lookout at the old Guelph Radial Line. 

Nordheimer Ravine

This ravine that makes for a quick jaunt through the forest goes underrated considering all of the hidden gems to be discovered. Admire a beautiful mural on a subway exit before passing by another that comes with a fascinating history. Sir Winston Churchill Park also has a massive reservoir and Instagrammable skyline vantage points. 

Rouge National Urban Park

Rouge Park may be one of the nicest spots around; it's also one of the most biodiverse parks in all of Canada. Most head here for the hiking trails and expansive marshes (some of the region's largest), while others appreciate its prime glamping opportunities. 

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Moore Park Ravine

Moore Park Ravine has gained a reputation as being one of the most beautiful natural escapes in the city. Running from the Mount Pleasant Cemetery to Evergreen Brickworks, the wide walkways come lined with trees. You'll also pass under the slightly-grungy-yet-picturesque Governor's Bridge. 

Small's Creek

Small's Creek is made up of four ravines following a partially buried creek. Tucked in a residential community with wooden staircases leading you down into a deciduous forest, Williamson Park Ravine for one feels like a secret discovery. The only downside is that the ravines are separated by train tracks. 

Taylor Creek

Taylor Creek is one of the largest natural areas in the city so a walk through the area is no small feat. You'll be served up views of Taylor-Massey Creek the entire way with plenty of bridges and access points down to the water.