MY MEDALLION
It’s that magical time of year when the leaves start changing colours. We’re lucky here in southern Ontario to have so many great places to witness this annual phenomenon. While you can see nature work its magic close to home, to enjoy the sights on a somewhat grander scale, we recommend a few great spots right here in the city. Here are our favourite places to watch the Fall foliage.
The Don Valley
Anyone traveling along the Don Valley Parkway knows it’s one of the first places in the city that you’re likely to notice the changing of the seasons. Once the leaves start to change colours, it’s a magnificent sight that builds by the day. The following parks are all part of the larger Don Valley that runs through the centre of the city and are worth visiting: Crothers Wood, Taylor Creek Park, Sunnybrook Park, the East Don Parkland and Edwards Gardens.
Glen Stewart Ravine
To get that true enchanted forest feeling where you’re surrounded by the tallest of trees, head to the Glen Stewart Ravine. It’s a walking trail underneath a magnificent tree canopy and what better place could there be to watch the colours change? The ravine explodes with colours in mid-October, which you’ll have a front row seat for as you meander along this elevated boardwalk path. Many consider this to be one of the best places to take a walk in the city.
Humber Valley
You can take in the Fall colours anywhere along the Humber Valley, so why not do so on a bike? This route stretches from Lake Ontario by the picturesque Humber Bay Arch Bridge and continues north for about 14 km. You’ll enjoy a winding journey up the valley, passing the historic Old Mill hotel and eventually arriving at Eglinton Avenue, though the valley stretches all the way north to Steeles Avenue and beyond. You’ll pass several parks along the way, including Humber Marshes Park, Etienne Brule Park, Summerlea Park, Raymore, and Lambton Park; some have fantastic flower displays so be sure to stop for those too.
High Park
Hike the trails through the park and take in all of the sights, making sure to save some time for the zoo or taking the little ones to the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground. Check out the reflections over Grenadier Pond or Catfish Pond. If you want to snap a photo of a mirror-like reflection, try going early in the morning when the water is most likely to be still.
Evergreen Brick Works
If you were hoping for some great city skyline views mixed in with Fall colours, Evergreen Brick Works should be your destination of choice. Surrounded by naturalized ponds and hiking trails, the area offers a variety of views. If you want a completely different perspective, check out the two lookout opportunities here at the Don Valley Brick Works Park Lookout and the Governor’s Bridge Lookout. On Saturdays be sure to swing by the Farmers’ Market before you head home.
Peak colour usually happens just after Thanksgiving in the GTA, but we recommend multiple outings because it’s fun to watch the colour progression. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to follow the Medallion blog for more suggestions on how to make the most of Fall in Toronto.
