This vast park just outside of Toronto has an assembly of forests and trails

You don’t have to venture far from Toronto to enjoy the beauty of nature and serenity. Centred around Rouge River in Scarborough, Rouge National Urban Park is a great place to spend a day, especially now that we’re in the thick of winter and the seasonal depression is starting to settle in. Nothing feels better than getting outside, and you’ll thank yourself after.

Getting to Rouge National Urban Park

Rouge National Urban Park borders more cities than just Toronto. Markham, Pickering, and Uxbridge all sit along the park, meaning there are quite a few points of entry.

Parking lots on site include Rouge Beach, Twyn Rivers, Zoo Road, Bob Hunter Memorial Park, and Glen Rouge Campground/Mast Trail. Each lot is open to the public from 7 or 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Exploring Rouge National Urban Park

“Explore one of the largest urban parks in North America, conveniently located in the Greater Toronto Area,” shares Parks Canada.

“Discover the natural wonders of Canada through the park’s rich assembly of forests, creeks, farms, and trails as well as marshland, a beach on Lake Ontario, and human history spanning 10,000 years,” the organization continues.

One thing you’ll need to make sure you pack is proper footwear, as the park is most known for its hiking trails.

There are 14 trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult, so there’s an option for hikers of all skill levels. Two of the most popular trails are two that I’ve visited before, the Glen Eagles Vista Trail and the Vista Trail.

The Glen Eagles Vista Trail is under 1 km, only taking about 15 minutes. The end of the walk provides views of the Rouge River and Little Rouge Creek and “geologically significant bluffs.” It’s pretty gorgeous, especially when all the colours of spring start to emerge.

The Vista Trail has a two-level viewing platform, and while most people flock here for valley views in the autumn, you’ll be blown away by the sights in any season. The trail spans 1.5 km one way, taking around two to three hours to complete if you do the full loop.

If there’s still snow on the ground, the trails are perfect for snowshoeing. While rentals aren’t available, you can bring your own and trek through the powder. Cross-country skiing is also encouraged at the park, with Bob Hunter Memorial Park offering some of the best trails, as it has gentle sloping hills and scenic views

Happy exploring, and make the most of the winter weather.

Where: 25 Zoo Rd., Scarborough, Ont.

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