Located in central Canada, Ontario is the main economic hub and the most populous province of the country. Famous for its natural and cultural diversity, the affable atmosphere in Ontario has earned it a global reputation. Ontario’s cities entice artists, performers, and intellectuals from around the world. The region is home to the world’s prime research institutions and is a leader in special education programs. Tourist attractions here include vast forests, beautiful provincial parks, great lakes, and the world famous Niagara Falls. The capital of Ontario province, Toronto, has many beautiful clean and green spaces, parks, trails, and a zoo. The palisades in the Scarborough district of Toronto are definitely worth a visit when in the area. There are nine parks along the bluffs that stand above the shoreline of Lake Ontario, making it a delight for photographers and trekkers alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Scarborough Bluffs, Ontario.
Things to do / Highlights
Bluffer’s Park
This a huge park, with a sandy beach to the east and man-made berms that provide views of both the bluffs and the lake. The beach with clear blue waters is well-maintained and offers spectacular views. It is a blue flag beach with lifeguards on duty all the time. The waves crashing on the rocks by the shore are simply amazing. You can go for a picnic, jog, play in the water, walk to one of the many rocks, or simply relax.
There are various hiking and walking trails, fire pits, and areas to pitch tents. The spot is perfect for enjoying summer barbecues as the sun goes down. Sprinklers and a small play area for kids make it appealing for families. The large marina in the center with a boating club is ideal for fun sporting events. Bike rides are another way of savoring the beauty of this area. Enjoy fresh seafood and a range of drinks at the Marina restaurant, set on the best beachfront in Toronto. You could also savor an ice-cream treat from the many ice-cream trucks dotting the area. Unwind at the Dogfish Pub with a refreshing pint and a plate of munchies.
Guild Park and Gardens
It is a municipal and public park located along the bluffs in Scarborough. This scenic and historic sculptural garden is a great place to enjoy a quiet time admiring architectural structures. The Guild Festival Theater’s open-air productions and art festivals in the Guild Gardens during the summer months are a delight to watch. Entry is free and you can click some exclusive photographs for your album while here.
Cathedral Bluffs Park
The main attractions of this spacious park are its turquoise blue beach, white pebbles, stunning sunsets, marvelous picnic spots, music events, and barbecue. The verdant greenery, trails to the bluffs, and fun activities for pets are the other draws of the park. The panoramic views of the surroundings from the hilltop are simply priceless.
East Point Park
A lovely place where berms and infills have been added in order to create a beautiful waterfront area. It is a great place for nature lovers, photographers and birdwatchers alike. A lot of summer and winter migratory birds are spotted here throughout the year. This park also has quite a few hiking and cycling trails for explorers. The grassy knolls, tranquility, and fresh air make this a great spot to relax and de-stress.
Travel tips
Visit during fall season
A pleasant destination in all seasons and an especially great place to visit for fall views. It is wonderful to see the many pretty colors of the leaves on treetops in the area during autumn. Summer evenings are nice, as well.
Free parking
Free parking is available here till 5 pm. Weekends can be quite busy and on these days, it can be difficult to find adequate parking. Arriving early can help you find a good parking spot.
Wear comfortable shoes
Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy walking, jogging, and hiking. There are not many signboards/maps/directions, so it may be confusing for some.
Wheelchair accessibility
People with wheelchair may have trouble with the loose sand.
Other facilities
The grounds are lovely and pet-friendly, while houseboats are available at some docks. Clean public restrooms and showers are available. There is a canteen serving up quick snacks during summer. There are also plenty of grills installed in the park areas.
How to get there
By car
Scarborough Bluffs is close to the heart of downtown Toronto and driving there is the quickest way to reach this beautiful site. It will take you only about a half hour to get there.
By bus
There is a TTC service and the closest bus stop is at Kingston and Brimley Rd, on route #12. You could check the TTC website for more details on getting there by bus. After alighting from the bus, you will need to walk for about twenty minutes to get to the Bluffs. Taking the bus is a great way to see the countryside during the summer month. You can get the bus from Kennedy station. There is also a weekend special bus service.
Scarborough Bluffs information
Scarborough Bluffs
Address: 1 Brimley Rd S South of Kingston Rd, Toronto, Ontario M1M 3W3
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Department of Tourism: Visit Ontario
History
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