May 18, 2019 Toronto, Ontario Parks Canada Agency
Whether you're looking for adventure, fun science activities for the whole family, a chance to explore history and culture, or a break from the everyday, Parks Canada has 450 000 km² of protected areas with countless unique experiences to suit your needs.
In the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Canadians and visitors to Canada are invited to explore and experience the area's best natural, cultural, and agricultural heritage at our country's very first national urban park. Parks Canada's staff at Rouge National Urban Park are set for a season full of new surprises and old favourites. There is something for everyone to do, from the youngest to the wisest!
2019 Visitor Services
Welcome areas and in-park visitor services, such as friendly Parks Canada's staff and washrooms, throughout Rouge National Urban Park are available from May 18 until the end of October. Our Zoo Road Welcome Area hours of operation for the 2019 season are as follows:
· Spring (May 18 - June 16): Wed - Sun, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
· Summer (June 17 - Sept. 2): 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
· Fall (Sept. 4 - Oct. 27): Wed - Sun, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Located right next to the Toronto Zoo, this area of the park is known for its hiking, bird-watching and photography opportunities. Visit the Zoo Road Welcome Area for helpful information and fun kids' activities. Whether you are seeking a rigorous hike or a scenic stroll, Parks Canada's staff are there to help you explore!
2019 Events
Parks Canada hosts four signature visitor experience events every season in the Rouge. Our next event is Rouge After Dark on Saturday June 8 at our Zoo Road Welcome Area from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., where you can experience the wildest nightlife in the city and get to know the dark side of the park. Other signature events for the 2019 season include Taste of the Trail (Aug. 17), and Earth Run and Fall Festival (Oct. 19).
Parkbus
Once again, a free Parkbus shuttle service will connect GTA communities, including downtown Toronto, to Rouge National Urban Park from July to September 2019. Dubbed the "TD Rouge Express," and sponsored by #TDCommonGround and MEC, the service operates every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Mondays.
Learn-to Camp
Are you interested in going on your first camping trip but don't know where to begin? Parks Canada's Learn-to Camp team has you covered! The Learn-to Camp program equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to feel confident planning and carrying out your first camping adventure. Throughout the GTA, there are three ways you can get your first taste of camping or enhance your skills to take your camping experience to a new level:
· Pop-up activities: Free, drop-in sessions at convenient locations and festivals throughout the GTA
· Workshops: Free workshops (1-2 hours) at public libraries and community centres in the GTA
· Overnight: These low-cost, overnight camping experiences take place in Glen Rouge Campground. Camping gear and workshops are provided; participants bring their own food and sleeping bags.
