By Kathy McGrath
One thing COVID has taught us is to value our local parks. They have become our living rooms and our backyards, places to meet, recharge and exercise. We in Centennial are very fortunate to live so close to Canada’s only national urban park. To maximize the waning days of summer, here are 10 ways to enjoy the Rouge National Urban Park:
- Canoe or kayak on the Rouge River from Lake Ontario to the 401
- Cycle the waterfront trail to Rouge Beach
- Visit the Vista Trail lookout for views of the Rouge Valley
- Hike a former logging route and explore Carolinian forests on the Mast Trail
- Hike or bike new trails through agricultural areas in the park’s north end
- Look for birds, frogs and turtles at the Beare Wetlands
- Join a virtual workshop with the Parks Canada Learn-to-Camp team
- Take your camera and capture a perfect sunset or wildlife shot
- Relax on sandy Rouge Beach before going for a swim in Lake Ontario
- Volunteer to help at the park. Email pc.benevolerouge-rougevolunteer.pc@canada.ca for more information
For detailed information on these activities visit pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/on/rouge/activ.
Please note: the Glen Rouge Campground is closed for renovations until 2022 and in-person guided hikes are on hold due to COVID.