Rouge Park

$5.00 Value
August 2008

Visitor Guide
 Contents
Welcome to Rouge Parkk 2
Outdoor Adventures 3
Places to See 4
Stay a While 6
Rouge Park Map 8
Points of Interest 9
Icon Legend 9
Day Use Area Map 10
Cedar Trail 12
Finch Meander Area 14
Glen Eagles Vista 16
Glen Rouge Campground 18
Orchard Trail 20
Vista Trail 20
Riverside Trail 22
Mast Trail 22
Rouge Beach and Marsh 24
Twyn Rivers Area 26
Celebration Forest 26
Woodlands Area 28
Driving Tour 30
About Us Rouge Park is Canada’s premier urban wilderness park. The 47 km2 of protected lands
preserve wilderness habitats in and near Toronto, Canada, from the Oak Ridges Moraine Cycling Tour 31
to Lake Ontario. Visit us to enjoy hiking, camping, a beach and spectacular views. Many
areas are accessible by public transit. Alan Wells is Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance, the Rouge Park’s Inhabitants 32
Park’s board of directors. Rouge Park’s General Manager is Lewis Yeager.
Have a Safe Visit 34
Our Vision Rouge Park will be a special place of outstanding natural features and diverse cultural Before You Go 35
heritage in an urban-rural setting, protected and flourishing as an ecosystem in
perpetuity. Human activities will exist in harmony with the natural values of the Park. The
Park Visitors’ Code 36
Park will be a sanctuary for nature and the human spirit.

Our Goal To protect, restore and enhance the natural, scenic and cultural values of the Park in an
ecosystem context, and to promote public responsibility, understanding, appreciation
and enjoyment of this heritage.

© Rouge Park 2008. No content may be reprinted without permission from Rouge Park.
Design: Michelle Holmes, Rouge Park. All photos are © Rouge Park unless otherwise noted.
To download a copy of this document, please visit www.rougepark.com.
Contact us at: rougepark@rougepark.com or (905) 713-6038
Rouge Park, 50 Bloomington Road West, Aurora Ontario, L4G 3G8
Welcome to Rouge Park, a very unique place to visit. Rouge Park has been Outdoor Adventures Await!

WILD IN THE CITY!

termed the largest wilderness park in a North American urban setting. More
important is our job to provide a refuge for nature and the human spirit.

While you enjoy walking the trails, visiting our beach and perhaps camping at
our facilities, you are surrounded by extensive nature reserves and ecological Camping Under the Stars!
restoration zones. In fact, we have been told by experts that Rouge Park has the The only place to camp in Toronto-
largest programme of ecological restoration of wetlands, forests and meadows of whether you’re a seasoned camper or just
any park. You may see the signs throughout the Park describing our restoration want to see what it’s all about, the Glen
efforts. One day, these restored habitats will become nature reserve areas, adding Rouge Campground is a great way to
to the Park’s ability to support a diverse community of wildlife and vegetation. escape to the wilderness, - right in the city.
© S. Locke/istoc
kphoto

Because much of Rouge Park is uniquely sensitive, we ask our visitors to be

particularly helpful by staying on our official hiking trails, keeping your dogs on a
leash in nature reserves and using roads, rather than trails, for cycling. In the near
future you will see an expansion of our facilities to include multi-use trails and
additional natural and cultural interpretive opportunities throughout Rouge Park.
What A View!
Rouge Park offers many breathtaking
We hope you will return many times to enjoy these changes.
views. Be sure to check out Glen Eagles
Vista in the fall, the colours are brilliant!

Steeped in History
The human history of Rouge Park
goes back over 10,000 years. From the
nomadic tribes of the distant past to the
cottage escapes of recent history, these
lands are full of stories.

Habitat Up Close
Within moments of stepping onto
one of the Park’s trails you’re bound to
see evidence of its inhabitants. From
songbirds to butterflies, and if you’re
really lucky - a turtle. Wildlife abounds in
Rouge Park.
© R. Johnso
n

3
 SO MUCH TO SEE!
Enjoy peaceful recreational canoeing on the
river, and at the marsh at Rouge Beach. Take
in the scenic views of marshes, the river, Lake Families and small groups visiting the Park
Ontario and a variety of birds. No rentals are can enjoy a picnic without a permit. Picnic
available in the Park. Please bring your own facilities in the Park in Toronto are limited,
equipment. No motorized boats are permitted. often only 1 or 2 picnic tables, no BBQs,
water or washroom facilities. Do not use
off-trail areas for picnics.

© P. Kline/istockphoto Have a larger crowd? For groups of 20 or

Tent, RV and trailer more, these areas have picnic shelters,
camping are water, BBQs, washrooms and plenty of
available at the Glen parking. Permits are required. Please contact
Rouge Campground, each area directly.
Toronto. No camping
is permitted in other • Milne Park, Markham: www.markham.ca
areas of the Park • Phyllis Rawlinson Park, Richmond Hill:
© D. Garcia/istockphoto
for your own safety, • www.richmondhill.ca
and to protect the • Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area,
sensitive ecosystems Whitchurch-Stouffville: www.trca.on.ca
in the Park
© R. Belknap/istockphoto

Rouge Beach is a
popular fishing spot.
Please remember,
a seasonal Ontario
Ministry of Natural
Resources fishing
licence is required.

© appletat/istockp
hoto

Rouge Beach offers swimming, There are many scenic roadways in

sun bathing, sand and fun! Rouge Park. See cycling routes in the
Park at www.rougepark.com. Some of
these routes are part of Toronto’s Bikeway
Network, see the City of Toronto Cycling
Hiking trails vary from easy Map at www.toronto.ca. for details.
to challenging with a variety
of scenery. The Park has 10 Off-road cycling and mountain biking © T. Weibell/istockphoto

trails for you to explore. are not permitted in the Park to protect
sensitive natural ecosystems. Trails are for
hikers only.
5
How long will you visit?

Up to 1 hour
• Take in the view at Glen Eagles Vista - pg 16
• Splash around at Rouge Beach - pg 24
• Listen for birds at Woodlands Area - pg 28
• Wander along the Riverside Trail - pg 22
• Enjoy a litterless lunch at Finch Meander - pg 14
Up to 2 hours
• Glen Eagles Vista, Twyn Rivers Area and Celebration
Forest, see Little Rouge Creek at Twyn Rivers Area
• Build a sand castle at Rouge Beach - pg 24
• Walk in the woods at Woodlands Area - pg 28
• Hike the Riverside and Mast Trail loop, - pg 22
• Vista Trail and Orchard Trail, follow loop to return to
Twyn Rivers Trailhead - pg 20
S TAY A W H I L E
One Day
• From Beare Hill Trailhead follow the
Orchard Trail south to Twyn Rivers
Drive, link to the Mast Trail, walking
south to meet the Riverside Trail
taking you to the Glen Rouge
Trailhead. Return via the Riverside
Trail northbound to Twyn Rivers
Drive. From there link to the Vista
Trail to return to the Beare Hill
Trailhead.
• Enjoy a morning at Rouge Beach -
walking along the lake shore, bird
watching at the marshes, building
sand castles. Spend an hour or
so canoeing on the river. Then to
Glen Rouge Trailhead along the
Riverside Trail to Twyn Rivers Drive
returning along the southbound
Mast Trail to the Glen Rouge
Trailhead.

© Rickochet/istockphoto
• Bird watching at the Cedar Trail south trailhead - pg 12 • From Twyn Rivers area, follow the
Orchard Trail north then take the
Vista Trail southbound back to
Twyn Rivers Area. For an afternoon Two Days or More
hike, access the north trailhead • In addition to a full day or two
of the Mast Trail, and follow the of activities in the Park, and a
© J. Dixon/istockphoto wooded path southbound to link refreshing sleep at the Glen
to the Riverside Trail, which will Rouge Campground you can
bring you back to Twyn Rivers merge your urban wilderness
Drive and the Twyn Rivers Area experience with a variety of
Half Day sights, shops, restaurants and
• Rouge Beach, Glen Eagles Vista then visit Twyn entertainment options in
Rivers Area to see the Celebration Forest, and Little downtown Toronto.
Rouge Creek.
• Toronto Tourism info:
• Beare Hill Trailhead - take the Cedar Trail and enjoy www.torontotourism.com
bird watching at the wetlands near the southern Overnight
• For a new kind of tourist
trailhead Add a stay at the Glen Rouge experience try Green Tourism in
• Riverside Trail to Vista Trail, follow loop to Orchard Campground to your full day of Toronto: www.greentourism.ca
Trail, which links to Mast Trail and will bring you activities. Sleep under the stars!
back to the Glen Rouge Trailhead. Camp sites vary from rustic to • The Toronto Zoo is walking
fully serviced. distance via our trails, or a short
• Take a driving tour of the Park along winding roads,
drive from the Glen Rouge
pass historic buildings, stop for dessert at a local
Campground:
farmer’s market, buy local, fresh vegetables from
www.torontozoo.ca
roadside stands.
7
 interp signs
washrooms
Points of Interest

M A P L E G E N D & D AY U S E A R E A S
wheelchair

swimming
canoeing
parking

fishing
phone
transit

hiking

picnic
(Toronto)
Whitchurch
Stouffville 1 Beare Hill Trailhead
Meadowvale Rd at Zoo Road • • • •
2 Cedar Trailhead (North)
A Meadowvale Rd, north of Old • •
Finch Ave
3 Celebration Forest
• •

Highway
C Across from 55 Twyn Rivers Dr

McCow
4 Finch Meander Area

48
• •
Kenne

an Road
305 Old Finch Ave
dy Ro

5 Glen Eagles Vista

• • • • •

Reesor
ad

7 Twyn Rivers Dr

Litt
Ninth Li

Road
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York
6 Glen Rouge Campground
• • • • •

oug
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Markham

Durh
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7540 Kingston Rd

am T
er
7 Glen Rouge Trailhead
D • •

own
Wood

Access at 7540 Kingston Rd

li
Pickering

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Warden
Highway

bin

B 8 Rouge Beach
• • • • • • • • •
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407 195 Rouge Hills Dr

Aven

way
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High
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9 Twyn Rivers Area
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55 Twyn Rivers Dr

oad
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19 Reesor Rd
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3291 Stouffville Rd • • • • •
Whitchurch-Stouffville
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401
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8251 McCowan Rd • • • • • • •
High Markham
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Aven Phyllis Rawlinson Park
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Elles
mere
Lake
Ontario
Leslie St. north of 19th Ave • • • • •
Richmond Hill
enue
e Av
renc Toogood Pond
D
0 2 5
Km
Law
216 Main Street • • • • • • • •
Markham

Rouge Park Map & Legend Icon Legend

Rouge Park Watercourse
( Camping Q Interpretive Signs E Telephone
Federal lands in Rouge Park Lake/Pond
. Canoeing 2 Accessible + Transit
Bob Hunter Memorial Park Highway
Road
> Fishing m Parking m Washrooms
Oak Ridges Moraine
Greenbelt
Railway r Hiking @ Swimming b Picnic Areas
Markham Municipality
1/A Day Use Areas 9
 Whitevale Road
Highway 407

Tribu
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Pett

ry A
Tributary B
ic
14th Avenue

oat C
11th Conc

reek

Reesor Ro
ad

Ninth Line
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York Durham Line

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oug
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Steeles Avenue Woodlands Area

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Beare Road

Woodlands
Trail

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Sewells Road
Ro
Reesor Road

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ive
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Neilson Road
Meadowvale Road

Finch Cedar
Meander Trail Finch Avenue East
Altona Road

Area

Mo
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Beare Hill
sid
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Trailhead
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Orchard
Trail
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Petticoat

Vista
Trail Celebration
Creek

Forest
Twyn Twyn Rivers Drive
Rivers Area
Sheppard Avenue
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Glen Eagles
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Eagles Vista Trail Pickering

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Mast
ive

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01 Campground
Legend and Trailhead

Markham
Rouge Park Municipality
Bob Hunter Railway
Memorial Park Toronto Zoo
Watercourse Rouge
Beach
Highway Trail

Lake/Pond Road Rouge Beach

and Marsh
Lake
Rouge Park Trail Ontario
11
Cedar Trail Access from Beare Hill Trailhead (off Meadowvale Rd), Cedar Trail 2.2km

CEDAR TRAIL
and from Meadowvale Road, north of Old Finch Avenue, Toronto Experience the cool green of mature forest as it shelters the lush valley lands, see
0 25 50 100 150
Metres
200
butterflies fluttering through a meadow, and listen for frogs at the wetlands.

What will I see on this trail?

• Small streams that flow into Little Rouge Creek, and Little Rouge Creek itself.

Bea
• Wetland and meadow species near southern sections of the trail, forest

re R
species in northern sections.

oad
• From the South trailhead, you can see the hill from an old landfill site that is
enue being revegetated, and wetlands created in the excavated areas where soil
h Av
Finc
was removed to cover the site.
Mea
dow

Steep grades on trail. Steps and steep sections

vale

may be slippery during wet or winter weather.

Roa
d

h Av
enu
e Cedar Parking Tip
Finc
Old North trailhead access on Meadowvale Road has limited roadside parking.
Better parking options for your safety and the safety of your vehicle are at the
south trailhead - Beare Hill.

C
N
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Mea
dow

ad eek
Ro Cr
vale

Z oo Little Rouge
Roa

Orchard
d

Plan Your Visit

Zoo

Toronto Zoo
Hours of Operation
Roa

Open year round

d

ô Accessibility
Vista
+ Trail conditions may vary depending upon weather. Stairs along trail. No
winter maintenance.
rm Public Transit
TTC bus: #85B and #86A stops at off-ramp leading from Meadowvale to
Toronto Zoo.
Looking for tips on finding wildlife? Check out our website at
http://www.rougepark.com/explore/nature_spotting.php Driving Directions
From Highway 401: Exit Meadowvale Road northbound. Exit Meadowvale at
Toronto Zoo Road, merging right to parking area. 13
Finch Meander Area 305 Old Finch Avenue Finch Meander Trail 250 metres

FINCH MEANDER AREA

This short trail immediately immerses you into the wilderness. Nestled in along a
curve in the Rouge River, enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

What will I see on this trail?

• A colourful selection of wildflowers along the trail
• Ancient maple trees offering shade
• Look carefully and you may spot the serenading songbirds
nue East
Finch Ave • Listen to the Rouge River as it flows over a rocky riverbed
•

Stairway on trail. Steps may be slippery during wet or winter weather.

ad
lls Ro
Sewe

e
enu Plan Your Visit
i n c h Av
O ld F Hours of Operation
Open year round
0 35 70 140
Meters Accessibility
There is a set of stairs at one end of the loop. No winter maintenance on trail.

rm Public Transit
TTC bus: #131 Nugget near Morningview Trail and Old Finch
Did You Know?
The Bailey Bridge at Finch Meander was one of many built in 1954 by Canadian Military Driving Directions
Engineers to replace a bridge destroyed by Hurricane Hazel. This bridge is the last From Highway 401: Exit Meadowvale Road northbound. Turn left at Old Finch
remaining one servicing in the Scarborough area. Avenue (pass the Toronto Zoo)
15
Glen Eagles Vista 7 Twyn Rivers Drive, Toronto

G L E N E A G L E S V I S TA
Glen Eagles Vista Trail 0.6km
Outstanding scenery all year, but especially pretty in autumn. From this viewpoint
you can see the Rouge River and Little Rouge Creek valleys and a provincially-
rive
significant geologic feature. This easy trail is flat and accessible for wheelchairs
ive rs D
yn R
and other mobility devices.
Tw

What will I see on this trail?

• An outdoor interpretive exhibit provides visitors with an explanation of the
scenery and some background on the history of the site.
^ ô
• Vista point with outstanding view of river valleys and natural erosion.
• Short trail with interpretive signs and native vegetation.
ô

Glen Eagles Vista

Sh
ep
pa
rd
Av
en
ue
Ea
st

Rid
ge +

Metres
ow
inb

0 20 40 80 120 160
Ra

r m+ 2
A Very Special Place! Plan Your Visit
The forest you see from Glen Eagles Vista is part of a Provincial Area of Natural Hours of Operation
and Scientific Interest because of its exceptional biodiversity and many nationally Open year round
and provincially rare plants and animals, like American Ginseng and the Northern
Mockingbird. Accessibility
Gravel path is easy for wheelchairs, strollers and walkers. No winter
The entire vegetation community, part of the Carolinian life zone, is now rare in the maintenance on trail.
Toronto area, but occurs widely in southern Rouge Park because of our protected
park lands. Public Transit
TTC bus: #85A Sheppard East stops at Sheppard Avenue East and Rainbow
Rouge Park provides the Greater Toronto Area with a reservoir of biodiversity Ridge Avenue
reaching from Lake Ontario, north towards the Oak Ridges Moraine. At least 12
Environmentally Significant Areas, 2 provincial Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest, Driving Directions
and 2 Provincially Significant Wetlands have been identified in this urban wilderness From Highway 401: Exit Meadowvale Road northbound. Turn right at
park. Want to learn more? Visit our website at www.rougepark.com today! Sheppard Avenue East, left at Twyn Rivers Drive.
17
 Plan Your Visit

GLEN ROUGE CAMPGROUND

Glen Rouge Campground 7540 Kingston Road, Toronto
Campground is 8.7
hectares with 125
sites. Tent and RV
sites are available.
Hours of Operation
Camping season: May to October. Dates shown at www.rougepark.com or call
the campground directly. Reservations accepted as early as January.
Accessibility
Facilities and campsites are wheelchair accessible.

Public Transit
There is no transit stop at the campground. Nearby transit stops are a 1km walk.

TTC (Toronto local transit): bus 85A stops at Sheppard Avenue East and
Kingston Road, then continues to Rouge Hill GO station 4 km away.
For more info: www.ttc.ca
Durham Transit: R9 route offers weekday “rush hour” service only to Rouge
Hill GO Train station, links to trains to downtown Toronto and TTC buses.
For more info: www.durhamregiontransit.com
GO Transit (regional bus): Oshawa/Highway 2 route (Oshawa - Yorkdale).
Stop at Kingston Road and Port Union Road. Routes & schedules: call
1.888.GET.ON.GO (438.6646), on-line www.gotransit.ca

Cyclists
m 2+ m E ( qw The winding roads through Rouge Park offer scenic cycling routes, we remind
you that riding on the trails and through the nature reserve is prohibited.
Camping Under the Stars! We are Velo Hospitality Ontario member. You may bring a bike on any GO Train
Toronto’s only camping spot, the Glen Rouge Campground, is easy to reach from highways on a Saturday, Sunday, or statutory holiday, and on weekdays between 9:30 a.m.
and 3:30 p.m.
and is on the banks of the Rouge River. A safe and comfortable camping experience. Hiking
trails, a sandy beach and access to other Toronto attractions are close to the campground
Driving Directions
Highway 401: Coming from west of Toronto: Exit #390, Port Union Rd/
Features: Kingston Rd, drive eastbound on Kingston Rd. Campground entrance
• Security: access restricted to campers during camping season is on left-hand (north) side of Kingston Rd, before (west of ) the bridge
• Children’s playground, showers, washrooms, laundry facilities over the Rouge River.
• Barbecue/fire pits Coming from east of Toronto: Exit #392, Highway 2/Kingston Road, drive
• Dogs are permitted at the campgound as long as they are leashed east on Kingston Rd. Campground entrance is on left-hand (north) side
• Campground is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the camping season of Kingston Rd, before (west of ) the bridge over the Rouge River.
Highway 407: Exit York Durham Line, called Scarborough-Pickering Townline
as it crosses south of Steeles Avenue. Turn left on Finch Avenue, turn right
Reservations on Altona Rd (southbound) and then right (westbound) on Kingston Rd.
E-mail Toronto Parks and Recreation: camping@toronto.ca At the bottom of the bridge, the campground entrance will be on your
Telephone: 416.338.CAMP (2267) right-hand (north) side.

For further information, please visit City of Toronto website www.toronto.ca. Fees (rates are subject to change)
• 6 people allowed per site, maximum 2 tents + 2 vehicles
• Each additional tent/vehicle: $8.00
• 27 unserviced sites: $22/day; $138/week; $526/month
• 87 serviced (electrical + water hook-up) sites: $30/day; $189/week;
$718/month. Unserviced, non-vehicle sites (cyclists, back packers): $14/day
• Sanitary sewage disposal fee: $10
• Firewood: $8
© D. Garcia/istockphoto
• Ice: $2.75 19
Orchard & Vista Trails Access from Twyn Rivers Area, 55 Twyn Rivers Drive,

O R C H A R D & V I S TA T R A I L S
Orchard Trail 2 km
and Beare Hill Trailhead (off Meadowvale Rd), Toronto Witness nature reclaiming the land as
regenerating forests merge with remnants of an
Cedar
agricultural past.

C
What will I see on this trail?

N
Orchard

R
• From the north trailhead, you can see the
hill from an old landfill site that is being
Toronto Zoo
revegetated, and wetlands created in the
excavated areas where soil was removed to
ad
cover the garbage.
Ro
Zo
o • From the south trailhead at Twyn Rivers
Vista

+ ô Drive, you can see an old ski hill and

the pieces of an old concrete dam that
was once used to back up the river for

Lit
tle
swimming when a hotel stood on the site.

Ro
ô

ug
eC
re
ke
Orchard

Parking Tip
Ro
ug Mast
The Twyn Rivers Area has ample parking available for accessing the south
eR
Meadowvale

ive
r
Vista
trailheads. Please use caution when crossing Twyn Rivers Drive. Parking for the
north trailheads is available at Beare Hill Trailhead near Meadowvale Road
Road

Riverside
e
Driv
nR ivers
Twy

Metres
0 25 50 100 150 200

Vista Trail 1.5km Loop

rm2 Panoramic bluffs, view of the Little Rouge Creek
and Rouge River valleys.
Staying Hydrated
Having something to drink while you hike our trails is a good idea - it will help keep From the north trailhead you’ll find an easily
your energy up and your body cooler, allowing you to enjoy your adventure to the accessible 1.5 km loop route, offering panoramic
fullest. view of the Little Rouge Creek valley.

We encourage you to bring a re-usable water bottle.

Steep grades on trail. Steps and steep sections
It’s inexpensive - safe water from your tap costs a fraction of the price of store bought may be slippery during wet or winter weather.
water. Additionally, many bottlers are using tap water to start with, so why not save
some cash and go directly to your tap?
What will I see on this trail?
Plastic water bottles are filling up landfill sites - almost 85% of plastic water bottles • A mix of forest and meadow offers a variety
don’t end up in the bluebox for recycling. Also, disposable plastic water bottles are of plant and animal life.
often made up of non-renewable resources. Wow! Imagine the difference a reusable • Steep bluffs provide breathtaking views of
bottle could make. It’s worth making the change today. the river valleys.

Visit us at www.rougepark.com for lots of planning tips and ideas!

21
Glen Rouge Trailhead Riverside Trail 3.2 km

RIVERSIDE & MAST TRAILS

Access at 7540 Kingston Road, Toronto
Riverside and Mast Trails
Your footsteps follow the path used by
on S
tree
t
ou nt Aboriginal peoples and early European
ards gem

Woo
Rich Rou
r iv e settlers.

How
ers D

dvie
R iv et
wyn Stre

ell C
Celebration Forest
T ford

wD
Little

Faw
r
rive
Celebration Forest

nda
Hoo
Use caution in steep areas and

Alto
le D
Twyn Rivers Area

ver D
close to eroding river banks.

na R
rive
Orchard

rive

oad
Mast

n St
ndoly
Vista Gwe
Lit
tle
Ro
ug
eV
What will I see on this trail?
Ro all
ug
eC
ey
Dr
ive
• Sections of the Rouge River.
ree
k • A mix of forest, riverside and meadow
habitats attract a variety of plant and
Riverside
animal life.

Ri
ve
rv
iew
Cr
Mast

Take a Hike!
Riverside
Glen Rouge
Campground
You can access both of these trails from the Glen Rouge Trailhead, located at
er 7540 Kingston Road, the same entrance as the Glen Rouge Campground.
e Riv
ug
Ro
You can also start from the north end at Twyn Rivers Drive. Please use caution
Sh
walking along the roadway.
ep
pa
rd y2
Tall

Av
en wa
ue igh
Pine

Ea H
t st d/
oa
s Ct

fS
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Ra

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d sto
sp

a n g
be

V
Tr ail Kin
rry

ge 40
1
Rd

ou
a lR ay
oy w
R gh
0 25 50 100 150
Metres
200
Hi
Mast Trail 2.2 km

Walking Your Dog?

rm Walk a 200 year old logging route. Over a
century ago large trees were cut and floated
down the river to the lake, bound for ship
The trails in Rouge Park are a great place for you and your four-legged pal to get some building yards in Europe.
fresh air and exercise. Keep these points in mind while you’re enjoying the sights and
sounds of this natural area, and help protect your park. The trail leads over the “hog’s back”, or ridge,
to Twyn Rivers Drive. Follow the 3.2 km loop
These trails wind through a designated nature reserve - home to many small wildlife
route of the Riverside Trail to return to the
species who may nest on the forest floor, or rely on ground cover for food and shelter.
South trailhead - Glen Rouge.
An encounter with an off-leash dog can prove stressful or fatal to these animals, and
could disrupt breeding for the season.
Steep grades on trail. Steps and steep sections
While you consider your dog friendly and no danger to others, an off-leash dog can may be slippery during wet or winter weather.
cause fear to other people and dogs.
What will I see on this trail?
Poison ivy can be prevalent in areas near the trails. Dogs can easily pick up and transfer
• Forest species of plants and animals.
this skin irritant on to you and others.
• Mature forests with lush understorey of
By leashing your dog, you are showing consideration for the park, and all of its visitors. ferns and other plants.
23
 ROUGE BEACH AND MARSH
Rouge Beach and Marsh 195 Rouge Hills Drive, Toronto Make a Splash in Lake Ontario!
Where the Rouge River meets Lake Ontario, there’s a sandy beach and a wetland
full of wildlife waiting for you. The marshes at Rouge Beach are the best and biggest
Rodd Avenue in Toronto and the sandy beach is a popular summer spot for neighbours and
visitors alike. Enjoy the 1km Rouge Beach trail.
Note: there is no trail connecting the beach to the Glen Rouge Campground

What will I see?

ad
Dyson Ro
Bella Vista Drive • A view of Lake Ontario, shoreline to the east, and the mouth of the
Rouge River.
• A variety of wetland and shoreline plants and animals. Look under
Pickering the bridge to see the swallow nests - infrastructure and wildlife can
Rouge Beach exist together!
• Tranquil canoeing on river and in marshes. No motorized boating permitted.
• Fishing access. Seasonal provincial licence required.

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• Easily accessible boardwalk and pathway near marshes.
> • Access to Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail.
• Washrooms, drinking water .
• Swimming - the beach is open seasonally in accordance with Toronto Public
m

Lake Ontario Health approval, lifeguard on duty when officially open.

Rouge Beach

. Rouge Beach á
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Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation:
Toronto Summer/spring/fall - vehicle gates are open dawn to dusk. Pedestrian access
any time. During the winter, vehicle gates are closed - pedestrian access only.
Ro
ug
eH
ills
Dr
Accessibility:
ive
Boardwalk and pathway offer easy access for wheelchairs, strollers and mobility
devices. No winter maintenance on pathway or boardwalk.
ast
eE

To TTC stop or
Public Transit:
nu

1.3 km to Rouge
Hill GO station
Ave

+ TTC bus: #54A/E stops at Lawrence Avenue East and Starspray Blvd
ce

Metres
ren
Law

0 25 50 100 150 200 GO Train: Rouge Hill GO Station on Lakeshore East line is 1.3 km from beach
entrance
r m + 2m E . @ > b Driving Directions:
From Highway 401: Exit Port Union Road southbound. Turn left at Lawrence
Look closely at the lily pads in the marsh, Avenue East, follow Lawrence Ave eastbound to the end where you will see the
you might spot a frog basking in the sun! entrance to the beach. 25
Twyn Rivers Area & Celebration Forest Twyn Rivers Area

T W Y N R I V E R S A R E A & C E L E B R AT I O N F O R E S T
55 Twyn Rivers Drive, Toronto
The remains of an old dam are still visible in Little Rouge Creek. In the 1950s, a hotel
Metres
0 5 10 20 30 40 in the valley was a popular vacation spot and the river was dammed for swimming.
Celebration Forest People often skiied on the hill on the south side of the creek. Nearby, the remains
of old orchards and farms are reminders of former residents in the area. From this
area you can access Orchard, Mast, Riverside and Vista Trails.

Celebration Forest: Our Park Memorial .5km

Across from Twyn Rivers Area, you can visit our park memorial where we have
honoured friends and supporters of Rouge Park, as well as those who contributed
to the natural heritage legacy of the area that eventually became protected in the
Park. To learn more about the people we are celebrating, visit www.rougepark.com.
Take a stroll along a short hiking trail, read our recognition sign or relax for a while
on one of the benches.

Celebration Forest

e rs D ri v e
T w y n R iv
Twyn Rivers Area

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation
Open year-round.

Accessibility
Orchard Twyn Rivers: Gravel parking lot offers easy view of Little Rouge Creek.
Celebration Forest: 0.5 km hiking trail is not paved, conditions may vary
depending upon weather.

Creek
Little Rouge Public Transit
This area is more than 2km from the nearest transit stop.

Driving Directions
Highway 401: Exit Meadowvale Road northbound. Turn right at Sheppard

Good Work!
rm2 Avenue East, left at Twyn Rivers Drive.
Highway 407: Exit at York-Durham Line southbound. South of Steeles
Would you like to learn about the contributions of those we are honouring in the Avenue East, road turns into Scarborough-Pickering Townline, continue
Celebration Forest? There are scientists, educators, activists, politicians and more! southbound. Turn left at Finch Avenue East. Turn right at Altona Road
southbound. Turn right at Twyn Rivers Drive, parking lot entrance will
Visit our website at http://www.rougepark.com/media/recognition/celebration.php be on your left. 27
Woodlands Area 19 Reesor Road, Toronto Woodland Trail 2.7 km

WOODLANDS AREA
Easy trail, flat and accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices for 1.5 km. Follow
the entire 2.7 km trail for a moderately challenging hike. The mix of forest and
meadow views offers opportunities for a variety of plant and animal spotting.

Re
es
or
ast
What will I see on this trail?
Ro ue E
ad
les A
ven • Little Rouge Creek and the valley.
Stee
• Young trees planted to build new forests.
Woodlands Area
• Remnants of an old cottage area, flooded by Hurricane Hazel in 1954.
^
• View of Little Rouge Creek.
• Wildlife viewing opportunities.

Gor
don
• Part of the City of Toronto’s “Bird Flyways”, areas where people can view birds in

Mur
their natural habitats.

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Woodland le R

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sor

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Plan Your Visit

CNR
Hours of Operation
Open year round

Accessibility
Sections of paved pathway. Gravel path is easy for wheelchairs, strollers and
Metres mobility devices. No winter maintenance on trail.
0 50 100 200 300 400

Public Transit

rm2
It’s For the Birds!
Every year, Rouge Park holds a Winter
Bird Count. Monitoring how many, and
what type of birds are found in the Park in
January, helps our biologists make good
Park restoration decisions. Why not come
out for a count? Call 905.713.6038 for
© R. Johnson
This area is more than 2km from the nearest transit stop.
TTC bus #53 Steeles East stops at Steeles Avenue East and Markham Road
Driving Directions
Highway 401: Exit Meadowvale Road northbound. Turn left at Old Finch
Avenue. Turn right on Reesor Road. Go northbound on Reesor Road,
driveway is right before Steeles Avenue East.
Highway 407 Eastbound: Exit at Ninth Line southbound. Turn left on Steeles
Avenue East. Turn right on Reesor Road southbound.

more information. Highway 407 Westbound: Exit at York-Durham Line southbound.

Turn right on Steeles Avenue East. Turn left on Reesor Road southbound.
29
 d

TA K E A T O U R
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A Nice Day for a Drive On Your Bike!

Spot wetland habitats, historic buildings and new forests, and if the season is right you can buy The scenic roads that wind through Rouge Park offer a glimpse into the area’s past
fresh local produce along the way. and an introduction to our future forests.

What will I see? What will I see?

• Stop at Rouge Beach and Marsh to walk along the boardwalk and watch the shorebirds A • Cycle by a cider mill built in 1872 on Reesor Road A
• Take in the view at Glen Eagles Vista, be sure to bring your camera! B • Restoration signs marking areas of new forest and wetland habitats
• Lapps Cider Mill was built in 1872 and is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act C • Be sure to stop at Glen Eagles Vista to take in the view B
• How many restoration signs can you see? We’re building plenty of new habitats. • Cross a Bailey Bridge - built in 1956, replacing the one washed out by the force
• The Cedar Grove Community Centre was a public school, built in 1869 D of Hurricane Hazel C
• The Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area will soon have trails and areas for you to explore E • Crops grown in Rouge Park’s Agricultural Heritage Reserve D
• The area is steeped in history, see an old school house F, or a church built in 1890 G • Bob Hunter Memorial Park area - soon to offer trails and other visitor services E

31
 CRITTERS
If You Go Out in the Woods Today... Here’s Who You Might See!

© B. MacQueen/istockphoto

© TRCA

© J. Dix
on/istoc
kphoto

© TRCA

33

Have a Safe Visit
Going “Wild in the City” in Rouge Park means you will be in a wilderness area. Visitors use the
Park and trails at their own risk.
• Keep your children within sight at all times.
• Beware of dogs! Some people still do not leash their dog as required by municipal
by-laws.
• Be aware of your surroundings on trails and in parking areas.
• Do not feed or approach animals. This Park is their home. Wild animals may become
aggressive when feeling threatened. Feeding wild animals alters their diets and
threatens the natural instincts and abilities they need for survival throughout the year.
• Use caution when crossing roads, visibility is limited and traffic is not restricted in the
Park.
• Help your children stay safe and learn to be responsible visitors.
• Call 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
S TAY I N G S A F E
Before You Go, It’s Good to Know...
Exploring Park trails provides a glimpse into the many fascinating elements
this natural sanctuary has to offer, including wetland habitats, ancient trees and
panoramic vistas. A diverse landscape is interesting to explore, however it is
also important to be aware of potential hazards that may also be present.
• There is no drinking water available in the Park. Be sure to bring enough
water with you to stay properly hydrated.
• Be prepared for the weather - wear protective clothing and suitable
footwear to shield you from the sun in the summer, and the snow in the
winter. Plan ahead for your energy and temperature tolerance to finish
your hike safely.
• Know your limits.
• Trail conditions vary with weather. Muddy, icy or wet sections may be
slippery and require extra caution.
• Poison ivy and stinging nettle are common in the Park. Other plants may
be irritants to skin or people with allergies. Be prepared for a rustic outdoor
experience.
• You will be in a natural area, with mosquitoes, black flies, etc. Wear
protective clothing and/or apply insect repellent.
• There are no amenities on trails or at trailheads.
• There is no winter maintenance on trails. Please use extra caution.

What does Poison

Ivy Look Like?
Poison Ivy can be a tricky plant
to identify - within the Park
it can have many different
© T. Levstek/istockphoto appearances. The key feature
is the three leaflets on the end
Don’t Get Lost! of a reddish coloured stem. The
leaves vary from light to dark
The white rectangular marks you see painted on trees, green, can be shiny, and often
posts and rocks in the Park are a standard blazing turn bright red in the fall. The
system, to help you find your way. stems can be woody or vinelike.

Follow the blazes to stay on official trails. Two blazes Poison ivy can be found just off
indicate a turn, a trail junction, or an area where you many of the trails and in wooded
should exercise caution. areas. If you end up with an itchy
rash from a poison ivy encounter,
By staying on the marked trails, you are helping to apply a paste made with baking
prevent riverbank erosion and damaging sensitive soda and water.
habitats in this special nature reserve.
Play it safe:
Enjoy your hike! Leaves of three, let it be!
© C. Hill/istockphoto 35
Park Visitors’ Code
Do your part! Help protect your Park so we can all enjoy it now and in the future.
Be a responsible visitor by following this code.

DO keep your dog on a leash. DO NOT feed or approach wildlife.

Enjoy our trails with your dog safely leashed.
All dogs must be leashed at all times.
“Stoop and scoop”. Municipal by-laws in effect.
DO stay on the trail.
Hike only on marked trails and observe trail closure signs.
Trails are sometimes closed because they are not safe. Other
times, they are closed to allow a damaged area to regenerate
naturally.
DO use the trash cans.
Carry your litter back out, along with any litter you find.
This Park is their home. Wild animals may display
aggressive behaviour when feeling threatened. Feeding
wild animals and birds alters their diets and threatens the
natural instincts and abilities they depend on for survival
throughout the year.
DO NOT remove or damage vegetation
or other features in the Park.
It is illegal to remove anything from a public park. Plants
provide food and shelter for wild animals who rely on
Rouge Park for habitat. Rocks, trees, and other features all
serve a purpose in a natural ecosystem. Please respect the
sensitivity of the natural environment.

DO report illegal activity. DO NOT cycle on trails or in sensitive

Help us by reporting fires, vandalism or illegal dumping.
To report vandalism or illegal dumping, call the municipality. nature reserves in the Park.
Fires are prohibited under municipal by-laws. Trails are in a Nature Reserve zone. Cycling is prohibited in
these areas to help protect sensitive ecosystems. Cycling
on roads is welcome.
DO bring your Ontario fishing licence with you.
A valid provincial fishing licence is required. Seasonal
DO NOT bring firearms into the Park.
$
restrictions apply.
Discharging firearms, including bows and crossbows, is
prohibited. There is no hunting allowed in Rouge Park.
Municipal by-laws are in effect.
DO park in lots provided.
Park only in designated areas. Lock your vehicle, and conceal
any valuables.

DO visit the Glen Rouge Campground.

Camping is permitted only in the Glen Rouge Campground.
For your safety, and to help us protect the natural environment,
camping is not allowed in other areas of the Park. 37