URBAN HIKING AT TOMMY THOMPSON PARK DURING CORONAVIRUS SEASON
Around this time last year, I began my first foray on the legendary West Coast Trail (the topic of another post). It seems like ages ago now when one could just (hopefully) nab a permit, hop on an airplane (for those not blessed with living on Vancouver Island), and be doing the “hike of a lifetime” in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
Surely, this pandemic has been hard for most of us. Even those not directly touched by the horrible effects of the Coronavirus have had to weather the impact of severe economic contraction and the uncertainty of when things will ever ‘get better.’ While the COVID 19 pandemic has changed the game, the human need to spend time outside has remained the same. Indeed, researchers at Stanford University have found quantifiable evidence that walking in nature may lower the risk of depression. So, if you are feeling down, perhaps a hike is your prescription!
One of the most amazing places that I’ve run and hiked in recently is Tommy Thompson Park, described on its website as “Toronto’s Urban Wilderness.” In addition to being a really cool place with fantastic views of Toronto’s skyline, for you birders out there it is home to hundreds of species of birds, including the largest breeding colony of double crested cormorants in North America.
Somewhat surprisingly, the land on which Tommy Thompson Park lies is almost completely human-made and effectively became an “accidental wilderness” when Toronto’s municipal council apparently decided that it was not needed for port-related facilities. Today, the park contains multi-use (i.e. paved) and nature trails, and even an old lighthouse to check out for those prepared to make the 10 km return journey to the end of the park. There is also an interesting floating bridge.
Although Tommy Thompson Park’s Nature Centre and Bird Research Station are closed as a result of COVID-19, its trails remain open for social distanced passive use. As maintenance operations have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the good people at the Toronto Region Conservation Authority suggest that visitors use the trails at their own risk! Although the trails are relatively well maintained, construction debris strewn about the park’s eastern shore is a reminder of its industrial past.
I’ve gone twice in the past month. Both times in the evening, and the experience was fantastic! There is something magical about seeing the sunset with Toronto’s skyline as a backdrop! – Matt
