5 lakeside walks that'll make you swoon for Toronto

A lakeside walk isn't the same as hanging out by the waterfront. The idea is to stroll for at least a half an hour without interruption or major detour from the lake. Despite many kilometres of pristine waterfront spots spread across the city, only a few areas make for good intrusion-free walks along the water. What better way to spend a summer evening than to seek them out?

Here are 5 serene lakeside walks to do in Toronto.

Marilyn Bell Park to Sunnyside Boardwalk
Perched right atop Lake Ontario, Marilyn Bell Park makes for a beautiful walk in its own right, but if you want to take in more of the waterfront, keep heading west to Sunnyside where you'll connect with the western boardwalk and a lovely view of Humber Bay.

Leslie Street Spit
One of the ultimate walking spots in Toronto, a trip out to the tip of the Spit lets you take in lake vistas on both sides, not to mention the fascinating ways in which nature has reclaimed this human-made peninsula. Stop to inspect bricks rounded by decades of erosion and contemplate the effects of time. Or just walk to the lighthouse for one of the best view of the city's skyline.

Humber Bay Shores
This lakeside stretch has everything. Start at the Humber Bay Arch Bridge and head west all the way to Mimico waterfront promenade. If you want to go for a long stroll head out and back, making sure to cross the Santiago Calatrava-designed bridge over Mimico Creek. The return trip will offer some beautiful views of the Toronto skyline.

Eastern Boardwalk
At three kilometres in length, the Beaches boardwalk is the quintessential destination for a lakeside walk in Toronto. If you want to people-watch, go on a busy weekend afternoon. If a romantic stroll is what's desired, pay a visit after 11 p.m. on a warm summer night. The crowds will have thinned, and you can walk in peace under the perfectly-lit pathway.

Bluffer's Park Beach
If you want to do a significant walk on an actual beach, Bluffer's Park is your best bet, as its sandy strip stretches well to the east of the most popular section of the beach. You can also loop around the trails at the foot of the Bluffs if you're looking to add some variety to your stroll. This one is best done during off-peak hours to avoid stomping on sunbathers.

Did I miss your favourite lakeside jaunt? Add your suggestions in the comments.

Photo of Marilyn Bell Park by Shannon W.

by Derek Flack via blogTO