Portlands: moonlight shining toward us (6.1 km)
Details
Biidaasige Park has become the top urban park in Canada in barely more than a year. The play area is impressive with ziplines and water works. Biking and walking paths wind through tranquil, restored wetlands and scattered artworks. Design thinking is evident in the placement of amenities and trail layout. If you haven't visited it already, go during the day. This hike happens at night, when you can see the park in a different light (or lack thereof).
The park is a key development in the Portlands area, which will transform into Toronto's newest neighbourhood in the next decade. This hike will start at the eastern end, follow the coastline to Cherry Beach and swing up to the park. Most of the area is still industrial. The only good place to eat is at the end, a local favourite for barbecue.
Highlights
- Leslie Lookout Park (depart 6:30 pm)
- Hearn Generating Station
- Waterfront Trail
- Cherry Beach Life Guard Station (depart 7:13 pm)
- Bridges of Port Lands
- Atlas Crane
- Lassonde Art Trail
- Views of Toronto skyline
- Ziplines at Biidaasige playground
- Giant snow owl, beavers, raccoons, and other critters
- Cherry Street Bar-B-Que (arrive 8pm)
Neighbourhoods
Port Lands > Lower Don Lands
Map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1EJACCyOoX-EdS2UE7Kpnic7P6rtmvac&usp=sharing
The trail from the start to Cherry Beach has no lighting but is wide and flat. You will be walking in the dark, perhaps with moonlight or city lights illuminating some of the way. Headlamps or torches can be helpful.
Recommended to bike, walk, or take a TTC bus to the start point because it's troublesome to return there in the dark.
How it works
Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints.
See our home page for more info.