Cedar Trail and the Beare Wetlands Loop

Rouge National Urban Park

Enjoy the rich wildlife at the Beare Wetlands on the southern part of this trail, then head north into mature forests with views of the Little Rouge River. Note that sections of the trail may be slippery in the winter or after rainfall. Watch your step and hike carefully. 

Location Bottom of Zoo Road
Lat: 43.822472, Long: -79.166639
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Difficulty Moderate 
Distance 4.5 km round trip (full trail) or 2 km loop (Beare Wetlands only)
Time 1 hour (full trail) or 30 minutes (Beare Wetlands Loop)
Washrooms Portable toilets are available seasonally
Parking Parking is available at Zoo Road Day Use Area from 7:30 am to 9 pm. Street parking is not permitted and illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed and/or towed.

Trail Features

  • River views – At times, the trail runs parallel to Little Rouge Creek. Watch for signs of beavers, shorebirds and songbirds.
  • Stunning landscapes – The cedar canopy offers the perfect backdrop for your hike. The elevation changes take you through the majestic ravine valleys and hill top forests that are characteristic of the Rouge Valley. When the leaf canopy is gone, southward views from the highest points of the trail give a sense of the expanse of the park.
  • Biodiversity – The extensive Beare Wetland complex is home to and supports songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians, mammals and many aquatic invertebrates. Watch for snapping turtles in this area.
  • A heart healthy challenge – Steep sections provide a good cardio challenge throughout the hike.

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