Jackson Park — Attraction in Peterborough

Jackson Park is located in and around and under the Parkhill, Monaghan and Fairbairn neck of the woods. It is a unique oasis of large cedar trees situated in the northwest environs of our small city, Peterborough, Ontario. Jackson Park is connected by unusual road entrances, worn bike paths, and of course, by Jackson Creek itself, which starts somewhere in the depths of the Cavan Swamp, runs gently past Lily Lake, and empties in to Little Lake, joining with the Otonabee River.

Jackson Park is a destination for what generally seems to be he urban folk of Peterborough who like nature. Kind of like a big backyard for those of us who have smaller backyards or no backyard at all. The topographical feature of Jackson Creek is that it leads me into a valley, and therefore shelters me from the many noises of the city. Rolling in to Jackson Park, by whatever method, I can feel the weight of the day gently lift off my shoulders. It’s a park, but it’s more than that, it’s our park.

Jackson Park is a journey, not part of my daily commute, like Millennium Park, or other paths around Little Lake that are part of my daily routine, but a journey that leads you once you arrive there. It forces one to amble down small paths toward the creek, and then shoots you along a straight line to Atkinson Road, or at least the...

Went on wonderful adventure with my dog. So much to see and smell! It was great using the shallow creek for overcoming his fear of water. We preferred staying on the west side of the creek where there are more natural paths and fewer passing bicyclists but even on the pond side, the paths are wide enough to be enjoyed at a safe and comfortable distance from other park visitors. Additionally, multiple entrances (both off Fairbairn and off Parkhill) are also great because they further distribute visitor traffic and reduce crowding.

My biggest concern here is the number of people who walk their dogs off-leash -there are signs reminding people of local bylaws and pet etiquette; all dogs are supposed to be leashed, but there is no enforcement of this. I would be wary of walking a puppy or any dog in training because it can be difficult avoiding sudden encounters with irresponsible owners. It is especially bad in winter, when the paths get icy and you lose traction and stability. It is difficult to react when a loose dog suddenly rushes...

This will be both for average folks who take their dogs for walks and for folks who are fellow photogs.

Not for amateur shooters that’s for sure! I shoot here frequently and really enjoy it. It’s got a lovely feel and lots of variety for images and backgrounds. You need lenses and bodies which deal with low light very very well. You can’t shoot successfully there without good gear unless there is just the right circumstances for light and conditions. Better not to take chances and bulk up before going here. Pictures are from winter and from late spring.

Walking and biking is awesome here. Tons of trails, lots of space and nice variety of spaces to go. There is parkland with a jungle gym, forest trails, bike trails and a nice trail along...