Toronto Hidden Rivers: Uncover Ancient Subterranean Stories
5.0
56 Ratings
Toronto
Uncover the hidden secrets of Toronto's subterranean world on a pay-what-you-can walking tour. Explore buried waterways, ancient cliffs, and centuries of waterfront transformations.
Duration:
3 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Philosopher’s Walk - We’ll walk the course of old Taddle Creek, now the Philosopher’s Walk through U of T campus.
What's Included
- Provided maps
Additional Information
Toronto, at first glance, is not what seems. Delve beneath its seemingly plain veneer and uncover sunken riverways, ancient escarpments, the world’s most expansive ravine network, and an oceanside that has undergone countless transformations over the centuries. Hidden Rivers Tours, guided by a professional historian, is the sole tour service in Toronto that specializes in unveiling these unearthed tales.
This tour operates on a pay-as-you-wish basis. The price reflected on TripAdvisor is merely the reservation charge and does not incorporate gratuity for your guide.
This tour extends for a period of three hours. We request you to be present at least 10 minutes ahead of the tour commencement. Punctuality is maintained strictly.
It is worth mentioning that this three-hour walking tour involves considerable ups and downs. Therefore, wear suitable footgear, shield yourself using sunscreen, and stay hydrated. There’s a scheduled stop along the way for snack purchases and restroom breaks.
- This is a pay-what-you-can tour. You pay on TripAdvisor to book your spot, and tip your guide at the end. Most guests tip between $20-$40.
Location
2 Hoskin Ave
Hoskin Avenue
We will meet by the pillars at the south entrance of Philosopher's Walk on Hoskin Ave. The closest subway stations are St. George and Museum. There is a path of grass just by the pillars. Your tour guide will be wearing a blue backpack.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(56 Ratings)
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961rubas
Sep 2, 2023
Awesome - Very unique tour and knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide (Matty) who truly loves his city and has "uncovered" a new perspective on the city we all love but dont know!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
29lyp
Aug 25, 2023
More appreciation for TO <3 - Matthew was such an enthusiastic guide and had a vast historical knowledge of Toronto. We went over 3 hours but he kept us engaged and entertained. I really enjoyed the unique pockets of Toronto and the little Tollkeeper's Cottage. There are a lot of interesting places in the city if you know where to look.
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Z977bakeithb
Aug 23, 2023
Excellent, out of the ordinary tour - A fascinating, informative and at times scenic tour, enhanced by the knowledge, enthusiasm and humour of Matthew, the guide
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Paula
Aug 23, 2023
All my steps were transcendent! - This experience transformed my view of Toronto as the big noisy scary city. Instead we were taken to beautiful natural spaces, hidden away from view but RIGHT THERE to transport you to a world of forests, meadows, and yes…hidden rivers. Matthew is one of the engaging guides I have ever experienced…and I’m 62! Plus…got in all my steps as a bonus:)
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Prairepaige
Aug 23, 2023
The best tour - I had no idea that Toronto had so much history and to walk through these places as we learn was an eye opening experience and an absolute pleasure.
Matthew Jordan is amazing at what he does.
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Aimalj2023
Aug 23, 2023
I had the best time! - Such a fun, enjoyable, and informative tour. It truly is for everyone in the city, (or even not from the city!), and Matthew is a great tour guide. There is so much to learn about Toronto and this tour teaches you just that while being a fun, engaging, experience. I truly cannot recommend it enough :)
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510jacobw
Aug 22, 2023
See Toronto in a Brand New Light - Very interesting tour and Matthew is such a natural communicator. He brought just the right amount of depth and context at each stop on the tour.
Both his tours and resources post-tour really helped me better appreciate the city I call home!
Highly recommend!
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C3967wylaurenm
Aug 21, 2023
Great walking tour with a unique perspective of Toronto - Excellent experience. Matthew is an enthusiastic guide who provides an eye-opening perspective about Toronto. My friend and I had a great time, even with a big group. Matthew ensured that the group stuck together and got to know each other.
Get ready for a good walk (about 3-4km), and bring some water/snacks! This tour is about 3 hours, depending on the size of the group.
Highly recommend to locals and visitors alike to learn about the geological, ecological, and human history within the city.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Edan3499
Aug 21, 2023
Incredible tour - When I first moved to Toronto, I always described it as a place with no history and this stayed true until I got to attend this tour with Matthew. Nature is a such a big part of our past and this tour is able to explain so much about how Toronto and the GTA came to be. Thanks Matthew for everything!
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744sukil
Aug 20, 2023
Best Walking Tour Experience So Far in Toronto - One of the best tours that I have in Toronto. Highly recommended. It was such a unique tour that I had the experience so far plus tour guide is very knowledgeable with a kind heart.
Review provided by Tripadvisor