Summer will officially be here in a matter of days, and with it, dozens of opportunities to participate in nature-related events. From guided hikes to dune restoration, there’s something for everybody. Not only do these outings offer the chance to opt outside and recharge—they’re a great way to meet fellow nature lovers!
Image by Rebecca Byrne Copyright free
Check the Toronto Field Naturalists website to see when they’re leading public guided walks (they lead dozens of members) in the city. Throughout the walk, guides present on themes such as nature and ecology, birding, history, and geology. If you’re looking for a way to beat the Sunday Scaries, join one of High Park’s Sunday Walking Tours. The Toronto Botanical Garden is another one to follow. They host lots of interesting events, such as walking tours of Toronto’s private gardens, forest retreats, and more. Some of their events require you to purchase a ticket, but there are free options too, so keep an eye out for those.
For parents who want engaging ways to encourage their children to be urban naturalists, check out Evergreen Brickworks’ Weekend Nature Play. The program emphasizes “child-led play and stewardship.” It takes place Saturdays and some Sundays at the trendy Evergreen Brickworks, in the Children’s Garden. Afterwards, families can walk around the pond out back or hike through the Don Valley Trails, which are easily accessible from the property.
As for specific events this summer, here are five spread throughout June, July, and August. All cost less than $10 and are entertaining ways to be in nature while also meeting people with a similar love for it.
Location: Discovery Centre at Downsview Park 70 Canuck Avenue Back door (near greenhouses) Toronto, ON M3K 2C5
When: Sun, Jun 25, 2023, 2PM - 3:30 PM EDT
Description: "Explore Downsview Park through a free nature program.”
Location: Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, ON M8V 4B6
When: Tue, Jun 27, 2023, 4 PM - 5 PM EDT (multiple dates)
Description: "The tree tour is an outdoor activity for those who love being in nature and want to explore interesting deciduous trees in Colonel Park!"
Location: Indigenous Garden and Mural 169 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, ON
When: Starts on Sun, July 23, 2023, 3 PM EDT (multiple dates)
Description: "Learn how nature has inspired Indigenous culture."
Location: Anita Dutka-Buchin Nature Sanctuary Anita Dutka-Buchin Nature Sanctuary, Burlington, ON
When: Sat, Aug 12, 2023, 9:30 AM - 12 PM EDT
Description: "We're tapping into the knowledge base of our members to update the biological inventories of our nature sanctuaries." Dune Restoration and Shoreline Protection on the Toronto Islands Field Trip
Location: Jack Layton Ferry Terminal 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5V
When: Wednesday, August 30, 11 AM - 3PM EDT
Description: "Society For Ecological Restoration Ontario (SERO) 2023 Field Trip: Join us to discuss dune restoration and shoreline stabilization efforts on Gibraltar Point by City of Toronto & TRCA”
There’s no shortage of nature-centered events in Toronto, and there’s no better time than summer to take advantage of them!