Crothers Woods Trails

Crothers Woods is a forested section of the Don Valley in Toronto, Ontario, near Pottery Road and Bayview Avenue, known for a network of winding single-track trails and ridges used by walkers and mountain bikers. The trailhead area sits close to the Evergreen Brick Works, and the loops range from roughly 5 to 8 km, with about 80 m of total elevation gain, which gives the area a moderate rating. Transit access runs through TTC Line 2 to Broadview station followed by the 100 Flemingdon Park bus, or bus 28 from Davisville station, with a fare of CAD 3.30. Visitors should check the TTC trip planner for current service. Entry is free and no permit is needed, while parking in the surrounding area is limited. Most hikers spend between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on the loop chosen. The surface is mainly natural dirt single-track with roots, rocks and short steep pitches, along with muddy sections that can persist after rain. Dense forest cover provides good shade in summer, though the winding trails can be confusing, so a downloaded map or navigation app helps. Landmarks include mature woodland, ridgelines with valley views, and glimpses of the Don River corridor below. Because bikes share many of the trails, hikers should listen for riders and step aside on blind corners. A turn-around or exit can be made at several connections to the Don Valley path system, which provides an easier route back toward the Brick Works. There are no reliable water sources or washrooms within the woods, though facilities are available at the nearby Brick Works. No huts or shelters are present, and the tree canopy offers only limited protection from rain. Insects can be heavy in summer, ticks are a consideration, and trails may be icy in winter. Mobile coverage is generally adequate, and the surrounding roads and paved valley trail make bailing out straightforward.