Maple Syrup Festival at Kortright Centre for Conservation
Maple Syrup & Nature: A Sweet Day at Kortright Centre from Toronto
The sap is running, the fires are lit, and somewhere in the forest a horse-drawn wagon is making its rounds. Welcome to sugaring season at Kortright Centre. Spend your morning wandering syrup-scented trails, watching demonstrations that trace maple production from Indigenous traditions to today, and sampling the sweet results straight from the source. Then lace up for a guided hike through 800 acres of conservation land, forests, meadows, and a marsh boardwalk with wildlife around every bend. All you need to do is show up at Kipling Station.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: $70
- Student/Senior: $63
- Children: $35
Pickup Locations
Kipling Station South Parking Lot
400 Munster Avenue, Etobicoke, Ontario, M8Z 3C7
Departure Time
8:30 AM
Return Time
4:30 PM
Kortright Centre for Conservation
Estimated arrival
9:30 AM
Departure
8:30 AM
What's included in my ticket?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation from Kipling Station, admission to the Maple Syrup Festival (including all demonstrations and activities), and a guided afternoon hike through Kortright's trail network. Food and gift shop purchases are not included.
What time do we leave and return?
The bus departs at 8:30 AM sharp from the south parking lot at Kipling Station (400 Munster Avenue). You'll arrive at Kortright Centre around 9:30 AM, enjoy the festival until 12:30 PM, then embark on your guided hike until about 3:15 PM. The bus loads at 3:15–3:30 PM and returns you to Kipling Station in the late afternoon.
What happens at the Maple Syrup Festival?
You'll experience live demonstrations showing maple syrup production through the ages—from Indigenous techniques to modern sugar shacks. The festival includes horse-drawn wagon rides (free, sponsored by 407 ETR), pancake meals with real maple syrup (available for purchase), a gift shop full of maple products, and family-friendly activities throughout the grounds.
How difficult is the guided hike?
The afternoon hike is designed to be accessible for most fitness levels. Kortright features well-maintained trails through diverse landscapes including forests, meadows, and marsh boardwalks. Expect gentle elevation changes and a mix of paved, gravel, and natural surface paths. Total hiking time is approximately 2.5 hours with your guide.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in layers—March weather can be unpredictable. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes, as trails may be muddy from spring thaw. Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and cash or card for pancakes and gift shop purchases. Don't forget your camera for the sugar shack and forest scenery.
Is this trip good for kids?
Absolutely. The Maple Syrup Festival is designed for all ages, with wagon rides, interactive demonstrations, and plenty of sweet treats to keep young ones engaged. The guided hike is family-friendly, though parents should assess whether the 2.5-hour walking time suits their children's stamina.
What if the weather is bad?
The festival runs rain or shine—demonstrations continue under covered areas, and the Visitor Centre provides indoor refuge. The hike proceeds in light rain; however, if conditions become unsafe, our guides will adjust the route accordingly. Dress prepared for spring weather.
Are there washrooms available?
Yes. The Kortright Visitor Centre has accessible washrooms, and facilities are available throughout the festival grounds.
Is the site accessible?
The Visitor Centre is wheelchair accessible with barrier-free entry and accessible washrooms. Some trail sections are accessible, though the maple syrup trail includes a significant hill (20% slope) and unpaved areas that may pose challenges depending on accessibility needs. Please contact us in advance if you have specific accessibility questions.
