“Ernest Hemingway walked this path.” Can you imagine walking in his footsteps right here in Cedarvale Park? This park offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history right in the heart of Toronto.
Cedarvale Park is bordered by steep hills. It is a popular spot in the Cedarvale neighborhood. The park is not just a green space. It’s a place where nature, recreation, and history intertwine.
Did you know that the Line 1 subway tunnels run beneath Cedarvale Park? There are even TTC emergency exits located within the park. This makes Cedarvale Park easily accessible. It also adds an interesting layer to its story.
Cedarvale Park is a hub of activity. Dog walkers, students from The Leo Baeck Day School, and sports enthusiasts all frequent this space. In the north end, you will find the Phil White Arena. The park also features a cricket pitch and soccer goals. The hills transform into tobogganing slopes in winter.
As you move south, Cedarvale Park becomes a natural ravine. The steep sides lead to a heavily used footpath. This path winds through young regrowth forest. The forest was largely clearcut for the proposed Spadina Subway in the 1970s. The project was eventually canceled.
The path remains passable even in winter. This is due to foot traffic packing down the snow. Drainage works in 2006 fixed water pooling issues.
Cedarvale Park benefits from its location. It connects to the Beltline Trail in the north and the Nordheimer Ravine to the south. Together, they create a large trail system through midtown Toronto.
The southern entrance of Cedarvale Park is near a St. Clair West subway station entrance. An outdoor gym, constructed by Trekfit, is also located here.
Castle Frank Brook used to run through Cedarvale Park. Now, the creek is completely buried. The Glen Cedar bridge spans the ravine. It was built in the 1930s and restored in 1989. It was saved from demolition.
Jane Jacobs successfully lobbied against the Spadina Expressway. The expressway would have cut through Cedarvale Park. The park is located on the right-of-way for the canceled expressway.
Since the 2000s, ecological awareness has increased. Renaturalization projects are underway near the north end of the park.
Cedarvale Ravine has a permanent off-leash area for dogs. Bylaw officers frequent the park. They ensure dogs are leashed outside the designated area.
Cedarvale Park has something for everyone. A lengthy jogging trail, tennis courts, a dog park and sports fields can be found here. In the winter, the park offers tobogganing hills.
Cedarvale is a really wonderful neighbourhood which is anchored by the ever popular Cedarvale Park. The neighbourhood has three large synagogues along its perimeter.
Whether you’re seeking recreation, nature, or a touch of history, Cedarvale Park offers a unique experience. Take a moment to appreciate this green space. Remember its past and the community that cherishes it today.