The 4 playing diamonds (1 lit softball;3 unlit tee-ball) in this valley leave much to be desired but the setting is visually epic. None of the fields are fenced so you will lose many balls if you play / do batting practice. Bring a flashlight + long pants and sleeves if you plan to retrieve those lost balls in the tree line bushes. If you park in the designated area near the diamonds, regular access to the valley below is either by stairway or can you walk down the maintenance service path which is open to pedestrians but the gate here is usually closed to vehicles. If you're attending an event, the gate is usually open to the service/maintenance driveway down directly into the valley. This is 4+ star venue: strollers+walkers+ kids +bikes +dogs all-friendly spot with washrooms which are adjacent to lit softball diamond. You will find nicely maintained, smooth walking and biking paths in a secluded quiet and gorgeous setting. Enormous willows and walnut trees act as castles for the active chipmunks and squirrels. Stand under one long enough and they'll be dropping nuts berries seeds leaves on your shoulder. 3 stars because I'm reviewing the playing field quality. It is boundless and irregular- making it a challenging setting for league sports play. Would give more stars if fencing and more lighting was in place which would increase safety but I understand this would take away from the esthetics of this GTA hidden gem; can't wait to check it out...
Read moreLove this park and trail. Weekday mornings and rainy days are relaxing as you walk the none too busy trail as the sounds of the city fade into the background and give way to the sounds of the birds and the Etobicoke Creek as the water flows towards Lake Ontario.
Weekends tend to be busier with more foot and bicycle traffic. The path does narrow in spots making the present "social distancing" task a little more difficult but can be done if people remember to be courteous.
Walking from the baseball diamonds at the north section of the park, down the trail to Marie Curtis Parks east beach and back is approximately 6 km give or take a few steps. Great for walking the dog. That said...best keep the k9 on a leash because bicycle riders may not be able to avoid a free running pooch. I've seen a rider go down because of that.
Plenty of riverside wooded trails and a playground with swings and climbing sets for the tots too.
Nice place to spend a little time to unwind with nature in the...
Read moreWoods that transport you to back country while you are still in the city.
A short walk away from the Long Branch Go station, the creek has lots of birds, squirrels, thick vegetation and this winter (2019) a deer family. You could spot the occasional cayote, but still safe to walk/run/bike. With fresh air and the sound of the water gushing down, this area makes for a relaxing walk/run.
The water is clear and a favorite among people who like to do angling. You will find families riding their bikes, athletes practicing for their runs and hobbyists looking for birds.
As you walk up north of the creek you get to a clearing close to 401 with a baseball pitch. On your walk south you will get to Marie Curtis Park and Lake Ontario. Either direction is pretty and you can enjoy this path cum trail all through the year. During winter be cautious of ice/snow while you...
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