These 10 lesser-known destinations are within driving distance and offer some unique options to enjoy out of the ordinary views and experiences without the crowds of the city. 

Adventure Stairs 
These 305 stairs were handmade by one local resident, who wanted a way to connect upper and lower Hamilton and took this on as a retirement project. The stairs are made primarily from natural stone and the handrails are long tree branches wired into place. The lower portion starts just off the Bruce Trail on Greenhill Avenue and meets up with the Hamilton Rail Trail halfway up. This half is easy to navigate compared with the upper section that has a steeper incline and close placed steps; however, the views from the upper portion are stunning. About 35 minutes from Mississauga.

Alton Mill
The perfect adventure for creative people or anyone who enjoys art, the Alton Mill has gained national recognition for their gallery shows, events and hands on workshops. Located in Alton, this home to 25 studio artists, galleries, a heritage museum, café and shops is a mere 40 minutes away in the Caledon hills. After being inspired at the Alton Mill, a brewing company and conservation area is nearby to complete your adventure and enjoyment.

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
If you’re up for a drive and an adventure, a spectacular one awaits you at the Scenic Caves in The Blue Mountains. Here you can head deep into the dense forest on 15 km of hiking trails covering 370-acres, explore caves and caverns, and take stunning photos of the Niagara Escarpment from the longest suspension bridge in southern Ontario. Besides hiking and sightseeing, they offer a playground, mini golf, gemstone mining, animal carvings and food options. There are fees for this attraction and the hours of operation vary by season so be sure to check before you leave home.

Abandoned Skatepark

The Bruce Trial is one of the oldest trails in all of Canada. Along the trail, deep in the woods near Dundas, hikers come upon an abandoned skatepark. The concrete and graffiti are in stark contrast to the surrounding forests. Said to have been converted from an abandoned building foundation, it is easy to find as you follow the trail. Start off at the dead-end of Old Guelph Road, about 35 minutes away, take the stairs to the top of the escarpment and simply follow the trail. (This trail does cross private property, but hikers are permitted access.)

Smokey Hollow Waterfall
If you haven’t heard of Smokey Hallow, it may be because this waterfall also goes by the names of Grindstone, Waterdown or Great Falls, all describing the same beautiful ribbon waterfall, surrounded by the forest of the Bruce Trail. At 10 metres tall, it was once used to power a local sawmill but is now the focal point of beautifully rehabilitated park land in Waterdown. There is a viewing platform beside the waterfall that offers a magnificent view, so be sure to bring your camera. At only 35 minutes away, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a fairytale as you gaze at Smokey Hallow.

Kerncliff Park 
Another great spot along the Bruce Trail, this time in Burlington, is Kerncliff Park. This park has a few trails, including the Ian Reid Side Trail that boosts a boardwalk through a water area which is a must visit for bird watchers. It also offers spectacular views of Burlington and Lake Ontario and stunning fall colours if you visit at that time of the year. While this trail is well marked, there are a lot of hills (some steep) and it will give you a good hike.

Buffalo Crag Trail 
While Buffalo Crag Lookout is certainly a very popular spot, it may be new to may. This hidden gem is accessed by the 3.2 km wooded Buffalo Crag Trail located near Oakville. This trail follows the edge of the Escarpment and features very picturesque scenery, wildflowers, and a moderate exertion hiking trail, best suited for use from March to October. Reservations are required and can be made through.

Robert Edmondson Conservation Area 
The Robert Edmondson Conservation Area is a short 30-minute drive away is a peaceful and serene spot to enjoy nature. This tiny countryside oasis is a perfect spot to bring children or dogs for a short walk on the boardwalk or to enjoy a picnic. The fall colours reflect in the reservoir making it the perfect place for stunning images, while spring sees it burst into colour from the Marsh Marigolds. The mix of wetlands and forest provide the perfect backdrop for nature to show all her beauty and is not to be missed if you like to photograph the changing of the seasons.

Cheltenham Badlands
If you’ve never been to the Cheltenham Badlands, you’re missing out on one of Southern Ontario’s most spectacular and unique natural landscapes. Picture rolling red hills, surrounded by dense forest, with a trail and a boardwalk overlooking its beauty. Not only is this sight stunning, but it is also dotted with educational and interpretive signs; as you walk, you can learn about this geological treasure that was formed at the base of an ancient sea, about 450 million years ago. At only 91-acres, you won’t need a lot of time to take in the sights or capture images, but it is stunning to visit and reflect on the area’s history, plus it’s only 40 minutes away.

Holstein Dam & Waterfall 
Holstein Dam Falls is about 2 hours away, and is made up of the falls, the dam, and the mill pond. These can all be seen and enjoyed at Jubilee Park, which offers a perfect place to enjoy a picnic, use the pavilion, play a game of baseball, stroll a trail, or play at the playground. The entrance of the park offers the best falls viewing, but you can also see it from the old railway trail that runs along the top of the dam. Additionally, the old railway bridge offers a stunning overhead view you won’t want to miss. Be sure to bring your camera to catch the falls from every angle.

Of course, there are also many lakefront parks to visit and enjoy, from those right in Mississauga (Port Credit) and wrapping all around the lake into Burlington and Stoney Creek such as Coronation Park, Bronte Park, Shell Park, Burloak Park and so many more. Each has its own beauty, views of the lake, and vary in distance and features like playgrounds and trails.