I proposed to my wife outside by a lake with incredible mountain views. It was truly special to be surrounded by nature (not a crowed public place) and escape from Toronto to have a romantic getaway for the following weekend after she said yes.
Here’s the part we’ve never written down; before our special day I made a shortlist of outdoor adventure spots to propose on the big day.
So here it is: my five wilderness proposal spots, plus the practical layer that every blog / influencer skips.
First, the important part everyone skips!
Get a park’s blessing (and filming permissions). Ideally you hire a professional adventure / travel proposal photographer who goes undercover and gets the right permissions. This is important because my university friend tried to fly a drone in a park and got in serious trouble because drones are not allowed in (some) parks.
But if you’re not in a provincial or national park then you’re in the clear for any drone or photography.
Now, the good part.
#1 Killarney Provincial Park: Far, but worth it!
The usual spots around Toronto get incredibly busy on the weekends. Take your proposal planning as an opportunity to really get out there. No matter when you go to Killarney, you’ll find peace, nature and privacy that’s perfect for your special day.
Where to stay: Rustic cabins or campgrounds (also back country camping available too)
Where to propose: it’s the La Cloche range: white quartzite ridges rising over lakes so blue they look edited. Head to The Crack, a 6 km round trip scramble that tops out on an open ridge above Killarney Lake.
Pro tip: Give your girlfriend a heads up to “look good” for some photos… it might tip her off, but since it’s a pretty intense hike she will appreciate the heads up.
#2 Port Dover Beach
Where to stay: Find an air bnb or VRBO that’s beachside. Quiet, peaceful and views of the water that stretch for days. Ideally find a place with a hot tub or sauna so you can view the starry night sky.
Where to propose: Right at the lighthouse at sunset. Can’t beat golden hour and it’s a great spot for a proposal photographer to sneak in some shots without you knowing.
Distance from Toronto: ~2.5 hour drive
Pro tip: After she says yes, you both will need a prenup before your wedding. Learn how our lawyers do flat-fee contracts here:
Prenuptial agreements
Don’t just plan the wedding. Plan the marriage.
A prenup isn’t planning for failure. It’s the two of you writing your own rules, together. Flat-fee, virtual, and easier than picking the venue.
#3 Toronto Island: Close & Easy
Where to stay: At home! the bonus is you can prep your place for when you’re back with sparkling, flowers and rose pedals.
Where to propose: Toronto Skyline Viewpoint.
Distance from Toronto: Right in the heart of the city.
#4 Algonquin Provincial Park
Where to stay: Campgrounds, honestly anywhere during October is ideal, the fall colours are everywhere.
Where to propose: Pick a hike, lookout or lake near your campgrounds, or paddle to your own secluded island. (Algonquin Park has many canoe rentals in the park and on the way to it).
Distance from Toronto: ~2-3 hour drive
#5 Royal Botanical Gardens (Burlington)
Where to stay: Grindstone Creek Farm, either the Barn bnb or the Jungle bnb. Such a unique stay not far from Toronto.
Where to propose: Right at the lighthouse at sunset. Can’t beat golden hour and it’s a great spot for a proposal photographer to sneak in some shots without you knowing.
Distance from Toronto: ~1 hour
