High Park, Grenadier Pond, and Gardens Walk

Hi friends,

We have not visited High Park since the winter, so it is high time we revisit Toronto's largest and oldest park!

Summer is one of the best times to visit High Park, since we can avoid the massive crush of people who come for cherry blossom season then seemingly blow away with the wind and their beloved blooms; *but* the full foliage and other flowers still remain in their full glory.

This is also one of the best places in the city to see surprising animals. Rumour has it that some in our group saw a beaver when we visited last year (though the organizer cannot verify that it was, indeed, a beaver).

We will plan to meet just inside the North Gates (please see the Google map pin below), and then take a circuit generally southwards.

We begin our loop going South and West (there are restrooms at the Chess building (and elsewhere later on) which can be used); and if the trail is in good condition, we can walk through the wooded area along the Western side.

This will take us South eventually to Grenadier Pond which is- you guessed it- Toronto's largest pond. This is home to ducks, birds, and other assorted flora and fauna.

We will also pass through the various gardens of High Park: including Cherry Hill; Hillside Gardens, and environs, which are beautiful in summer.

Depending on how warm it is and our pace, we may also visit High Park Zoo. Admission is free. There are various animals from around the world there to visit.

We walk at a moderate pace, slow enough for people to chat, or just to take in nature on a break from the bustle of the city.

If this is your first time joining us, please send $10 for yearly membership to HspTorontoMeetup@gmail.com. This covers all of our events for the whole 2025.

We will update here in case of inclement weather. We will likely go ahead unless there is a substantial rain storm, or an extreme heat warning. Hopefully we get a fairly pleasant day.

Look forward to seeing you! :)