At one time the majority of brick houses built in Toronto had their origin in the Don Valley Brickworks. Now the brickworks are closed and all that remain are the old, sprawling industrial buildings and the few administrative buildings. Currently this site in being redeveloped by Evergreen Canada into a cultural and educational destination. This transformation is ongoing but one of the highlights of this site is well worth a visit right now. Behind the buildings the former quarry has been naturalized into beautiful series of ponds and meadows with a meandering trail. Wildlife abounds and is quite easy to spot turtles, great blue herons, red wing black birds and beavers throughout the site. Even your dog will enjoy this area with its adjacent fenced in and naturalized dog park, otherwise keep Fido on the leash. The beauty and solitude of this urban oasis has to be experienced. It is definitely a jewel within the city!
Located 550 Bayview Avenue (Bayview Extension, south of Pottery Road). Monday to Sunday always free, parklands close at dusk. Get off at Rosedale subway station and take the 82 Rosedale bus to Chorley Park stop, follow the nature trail down ravine to Belt Line Trail, entrance off Belt Line Trail. There is also free on-site parking available. 416.392.5323
