Living in the west end certainly has its advantages.  One of the most amazing features of the west end is the incredible High Park.  With 399 acres of green space, High Park is one of the most significant natural sites within the city.  With an outstanding concentration of rare plant species, the famous Cherry Blossoms and the best hiking trails, this park has it all. There is so much to see and do one blog post simply can’t sum it all up. We’ve put together a list of 6 stand out features of High Park, that aren’t the usual things that come to mind.  Of course, everything at this park is a stand out, here are 6 things you might not know about yet.

Located inside the park The Grenadier has been a High Park staple since the early 80’s.  This is the place to meet up for a leisurely brunch before taking a stroll though the park.  With indoor and outdoor dining, there is plenty of space at The Grenadier.  The patio has some of the best views of the park. Stop in for a Greek inspired lunch, they have amazing Greek salad and Spanakopita.  Taking your pup for a walk in one of the west end’s best dog parks?  Stop by The Grenadier for a nice cup of coffee to take with you, you’re going to need it.  Once your pup sees this dog park, you won’t be leaving any time soon.

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Though the park is closed to vehicles on the weekend, during the week there is an epically scenic drive available.  With multiple access points from Roncy to Bloor Street as well as direct access to the lakeshore,  Beautiful winding roads cut through the park making for a peacefully drive across the city.  Looking to go on an amazing bike ride?  Easily bike through High Park down to the lakeshore and connect to the Martin Goodman Trail, where you can ride as far east as the Rouge River!  That is over 22km of bike trail, it’s a workout!

For an excellent day out with the little ones, check out the the southern end of the park, where you’ll find kid-friendly attractions like the Children’s Garden and Teaching Kitchen. This is a unique program that provides a variety of environmental education opportunities including curriculum based school programs, summer Eco Camps, youth cooking programs, free family drop-ins, and free community events. Using Toronto’s gardens, parks, and ravines, children are able to explore and investigate an outstanding urban natural environment. High Park also has an outdoor pool, ice rink, petting zoo, splash pad and playground.  It truly is the perfect place for a day out with the family, in all seasons.

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A truly unique spot in the city, the High Park Club is one of the most prestigious recreation landmarks in Toronto. Opened in 1911, the High Park Club has been continuously in business for over 100 years!  In the spring and summer months, The High Park Club boasts 2 grass tennis courts. This site was originally developed as a lawn bowling facility but is now used as the only grass courts in the city. Grab a spot on one of the beautiful outdoor verandas overlooking the courts and spend a sunny summer Sunday sipping a cool beverage while taking in some excellent tennis. The High Park Club isn’t limited to just tennis, there is also  Toronto’s oldest curling club and 5 of the city’s best maintained sheets of curling ice.  If you’ve always been curious about curling, this is the place to try it.  The Saturday Mixed Social is a time devoted to learning, playing, meeting new people and having fun.

If hiking is on your list of things you enjoy, then High Park has you covered.  The most popular trail is the High Park Loop, a 5km hiking trail perfect for all skill levels. There is also an 8.5 hectare off-leash dog park and hiking trail perfect for hiking with your best friend.  The entire park is 399 acres of beautiful green space.  Hike the trails or just stroll around checking out all the amazing amenities, and native wildlife.

Perhaps the most famous landmark of the park is the Cherry Blossoms.  Every year a livestream counts down the days until the blossoms open and the crowds descend upon the Park.  The Sakura trees were a gift to Canada from Japan, and the first 100 were planted in 1959. There have been a few more generous donations since the initial gift, some planted as recently as 2019.  The average life expectancy of these trees is around 30-40 years, however the park staff have carefully maintained these trees ensuring a longevity well beyond 40 years. The High Park Cherry blossoms are an absolute must-see in the spring time.  For our best tips on how to maximize your viewing pleasure during bloom season, check out our blog on the 4 Ways To Enjoy High Park’s Cherry Blossoms Like A Local.

Are you thinking of calling High Park home?

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