MY MEDALLION
London, Ontario has long been known as The Forest City, a fact that likely isn’t that surprising to anyone who has visited. In the warmer months the city is filled with lush, verdant greenery; in fact, it has a generous tree canopy that is impressive—and makes for great photos—any time of year. In this post, we explore why the name is so deserving and share some of the most beautiful spots in the city to take it all in.
Lots Of Parks And Green Space
London has more than 200 parks, from modest neighbourhood parkettes lined with native plants, shrubs, and trees to large, sprawling acreages ideal for huge outdoors gatherings, summer festivals, and celebrations. There are even a number of specialty parks, including ones designed for skateboarding and several off-leash parks for dogs. This list of London’s unique natural areas can help you explore your own neighbourhood and beyond with its suggestions of several local gems.
Extensive Trail System Along The Thames River
If you like to lead an active lifestyle and spend as much time as possible outdoors, you’ll appreciate London’s picturesque Thames River and the extensive trail system that surrounds it. You can run, jog, hike, walk, bike, and inline skate these trails, which branch out and touch almost every neighbourhood in the city. The Thames River trail system even connects to Western University’s campus, which makes exploring the larger city very convenient for students.
An Abundance Of Trees And Urban Forests
London wouldn’t be known as The Forest City were it not for the large number of trees and urban forests located here. It certainly creates a more harmonious balance between naturalized areas and the built environment than you might typically find in the average urban setting. If you haven’t already, you must try forest-bathing, also known as the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku. Spending (mindful) time in a woodland setting allows you to find peace and solitude while also drawing strength from the nature that surrounds you. The city is also home to a number of Environmentally Significant Areas—natural spaces that are specially protected. Examples include wetlands, meadows, forests, wildlife habitats, and river corridors.
A Full Slate Of Summer And Fall Festivals
Several of these wonderful green spaces also play host to a number of large-scale celebrations throughout the year that residents can enjoy. Many are so popular, in fact, that they draw visitors from miles away. Destinations include the 140-hectare Springbank Park; Victoria Park, which is located in the downtown core; and Harris Park, each of which host well-attended festivals throughout the warmer months.
The city of London is working towards the goal of reaching 34% tree canopy cover by 2065, and they’re well on their way. Come see for yourself the beauty that the Forest City has to offer. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to follow the Medallion blog for more interesting facts about our communities.
