Nature Activities
Let your family take in all that Mother Nature has to offer in one of the many natural areas in East Gwillimbury or in other parts of York Region.
East Gwillimbury
Rogers Reservoir Conservation Area is located on the Holland River, one kilometre south of the Mount Albert Road on the Second Concession. A shallow reservoir and marsh area attracts a variety of waterfowl and other marsh birds. A viewing tower and trail system along the river make this park a popular spot for birders and hikers. Rogers Reservoir is also home to one of the locks along the "ghost canal" system - built to accommodate shipping between Newmarket and Lake Simcoe in 1911 and then never used. Remnants of the abandoned canal, a lock and swing bridge are located in the park.
York Region
Holland River Walkway System. A green belt being developed in Newmarket runs alongside the Holland River from Mulock Drive to Timothy Street and from Davis Drive to the town's northern limit. It also joins a number of town parks, including Dennis Park, Wesley Brooks Park (Fairy Lake) and George Richardson Park.
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority has a number of conservation areas open to the public throughout south Simcoe County, York Region and Durham Region. With about 14,000 hectares of conservation land, environmental education ranks high on the list of regional priorities. Here you will find not only invigorating outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, canoeing, tobogganing and skating, but you'll also be able to learn about nature and how early settlers lived in harmony with their natural surroundings.
York Region Forest is a collection of several forest tracts situated throughout the region. These forest tracts have a number of trails suitable for walking, hiking, or skiing. The Town of East Gwillimbury has prepared a guide for the trails in East Gwillimbury which includes brief descriptions of each trail, highlighting main intersections, length of trails and parking. If you would like more information on the trails located outside of East Gwillimbury, please call 416-667-6299 or refer to the York Region web site.
Kortright Centre for Conservation. Over 160 hectares of forest, meadows and wetlands playing host to daily nature hikes, special weekends and workshops. Open all year-round with indoor and outdoor exhibits, nature films, over 15 km of nature trails, a cafe and gift shop. Take Highway 400 to Major Mackenzie Drive, travel west to Pine Valley Drive and go south for 1 km to the entrance. 905-832-2289.
Scanlon Creek Conservation Area is a perfect place to visit and explore throughout the year. The park's natural setting and size provides an individual or a group the opportunity to have an enjoyable experience. During the warmer months, the park is a great place to spend a few hours or an entire day. Visitors can swim or fish in the 4 hectare reservoir. The large open areas and pavilions are ideal spots for picnics. Winter is the time to visit the park to hike, toboggan or enjoy cross-country skiing. Hiking is also very enjoyable in the spring when wildflowers and migrating birds are plentiful and during the fall show of colour. The park is located 4 km north of Bradford on Highway 11. 905-895-1281.
Sibbald Point Provincial Park. A 200 hectare recreation park on south Lake Simcoe offering 648 campsites, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing hiking and a museum. County Road 18, 2 kms north of Hwy. 48 (follow signs). 905-722-8061.
Pathway to Perennials. Tour the perennial trails. See theme display gardens. 4681 Lloydtown/Aurora Road, Pottageville. 1-800-551-0335 or 905-939-8680.
Bruce's Mill Conservation Area. Over 92 hectares of scenic conservation land. Tables and barbecues available, as well as swimming and beach area. Stouffville Road, east of Highway 404. 416-661-6600.
Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area. With groomed trails, a small stream and a covered pavilion, Sheppard's Bush Conservation is a delightful place to visit all year long. This beautiful woodlot, situated in the heart of Aurora, is popular with power walkers and picnickers alike. The property was donated to the Ontario Heritage Foundation by Mr. E.R. Sheppard in 1971 and is managed by the Conservation Authority and Town of Aurora. Children are encouraged to explore aquatic life, map out hidden treasures and build shelters as part of the LSRCA’s annual Summer Nature Programme. Sheppard's Bush is located south of Wellington Street East on Industry Street. 905-895-1281.
Whitchurch Conservation Area is a small 10 hectare (25 acre) park located on Aurora Sideroad (Regional Road 15), 10 kilometres west of Aurora. A small pond and a variety of large, mature trees makes this a picturesque spot for picnic. For the hikers, this park provides access to the adjoining 63 hectare Robinson Tract of the York Regional Forest.
Willow Beach Conservation Area is an ideal spot for swimming during the hot summer months - there is 500 meters of sand beach and a gently sloping shoreline. Picnic goers will enjoy the large open grassed areas and mature shade trees. Facilities include change rooms, washrooms, drinking water, picnic tables and a playground. Willow Beach is located four kilometres west of Jackson's Point on Metro Road. A gate fee is in effect during the summer months only.