The CN Tower EdgeWalk is one of the most unique things to do in Toronto for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience.
Unfortunately, my fascination with skyscrapers began around the time the World Trade Center went down on September 11, 2001.
Not exactly the best way to start this story, right?
But that moment is deeply tied to what followed.
In the years after, I spent countless days and nights teaching myself about architecture — studying skyscrapers, engineering, and the tallest structures in the world. This was long before Dubai reshaped the skyline as we know it today.
At the time, and even now, the CN Tower in Toronto stood out to me as one of the most fascinating free-standing structures in the world. Back then, I didn’t know much about Canada — I even thought the tower was in Vancouver… and that Vancouver was near New York. Excuse my geography at the time.
As the years passed, that passion faded. But when my desire to travel began to grow, so did that same fascination.
The Meaning Behind the Experience
I could explain my CN Tower experience in a short paragraph.
But for me, the story behind it carries far more weight.
My trip to Toronto was centered around one thing — the CN Tower. A place I had wanted to visit for over a decade.
That desire, combined with my growing urge to travel, turned what could have been a quick trip into something much bigger. I could have gone to Europe or Japan, but instead, I chose to follow something I had been holding onto for years.
What is the Edge Walk?
After deciding to travel to Toronto, I discovered one of the tower’s most unique experiences: the EdgeWalk.
The CN Tower EdgeWalk is an outdoor walk around the edge of the tower, over 1,100 feet above the ground, guided in small groups.
The experience included:
- a guided walk with a small group
- full access to the tower for multiple days
- photos and a certificate of completion
It wasn’t just a visit — it was an experience.
Preparation
My walk was scheduled for 12 PM that afternoon.
I woke up at 7 AM feeling both nervous and excited.
The EdgeWalk has its own check-in area separate from the main entrance, where clips of previous walks play on repeat. Ironically, Lady Gaga’s “The Edge of Glory” kept playing as I paced back and forth.
A waiver was signed. A last-minute bathroom visit was made. Then the six of us were brought into a room to suit up — special shoes, an orange jumpsuit, and full harness gear.
I was noticeably younger than the rest of the group, most of whom appeared to be a couple of decades older. But in that moment, we were all there for the same reason.
After getting fully secured and storing our belongings, we were sent up a dedicated elevator to the top — greeted by applause from the crowd below.
The Experience
At the top, we stepped into a narrow hallway leading to the final staging area.
One by one, we were clipped into heavy-duty harnesses as the guides prepared us to step outside.
I made it a point to be the first one out.
And then the doors opened.
In an instant, the world dropped away beneath us.
That first step outside was an immediate clash between gravity and perception — your body trying to process what your eyes are seeing.
We walked along the edge with views of downtown Toronto, Lake Ontario, and beyond. Beneath us was nothing but a metal grate separating us from the drop below.
We stopped at different points to perform guided movements:
- leaning back over the edge
- leaning forward
- walking the edge
- pausing for photos
Everything felt controlled — until I leaned back and let go.
The best way I can describe it… I felt weightless.
In that moment, my sense of balance disappeared, and for a split second, I was completely at the mercy of the harness holding me 1,800 feet above the ground.
What It Meant to Me
Personally, I had no fear or phobia of any kind like some of the others did. In fact, I was comfortable and extremely happy I was there. I felt liberated despite the many years it took to be on top of the tower. I did continue on with my trip to Ottawa and to Montreal, but it was that very moment that not only made my trip but became a symbol in my life that I can conquer and achieve anything I want to with the right focus and hard work. So as I leaned forward with Toronto to my left, Lake Ontario to my right with arms wide open to the world in front of me.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CN Tower EdgeWalk
Is the CN Tower EdgeWalk safe?
Yes, the CN Tower EdgeWalk is designed with multiple safety systems, including full-body harnesses secured to an overhead rail. The experience is guided at all times, and safety procedures are strictly followed.
How high is the CN Tower EdgeWalk?
The EdgeWalk takes place over 1,100 feet (356 meters) above the ground, making it one of the highest hands-free walks of its kind in the world.
How much does the CN Tower EdgeWalk cost?
The experience typically costs around $200 USD (or equivalent in CAD) and includes the walk, photos, and access to the CN Tower.
Do you need to be experienced to do the EdgeWalk?
No experience is needed. As long as you meet the basic physical and health requirements, the guides walk you through everything step by step.
Is the CN Tower EdgeWalk worth it?
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in Toronto, the EdgeWalk is absolutely worth it. This post is the answer within itself 🙂
