Comments archives: 2020

View recent posts.

Lost & Found, December 26, 2020 , posted by Maham Zaib , mahamzaib93@gmail.com

Its a great park and i love it. Me and my husband went to a trail near pond. On a wooden ledge my husband lost his wedding ring. I tried whole night to find it using metal detector but no luck. If you could post on your public pages, anyone who will find it please contact us. I can send u a picture of it aswell. It has S&M engraved with out wedding date 20-3-20. Please it would ba great help ????????

Its silver in color, platinum band matt with a single diamond on it.

New Boxing Day Restrictions , December 24, 2020 , posted by Steven , Steeeeve1@gmail.com

Can we still walk through the park after the new restrictions go into effect on December 26?

Road closures, December 14, 2020 , posted by Wm. Homonylo , william.homonylo@gmail.com

Why is Colborne Lodge Drive closed to traffic south of the restaurant on week days, preventing travel through the park?

Dangerous branch, December 10, 2020 , posted by Brigid Murphy , bmurphy7@hotmail.co.uk

On the small bridge south of the zoo parking lot there’s a tree branch sticking out half way across. At eye level for tall person...whacked me in the head in twilight. Should be cut. Thanks!

Skiing, December 7, 2020 , posted by Skier

Can I bring my skies to the park? Is there a ski hill?

Cars on weekend, December 5, 2020 , posted by Vera , Vera_carlos4@msn.com

Is high park open for cars on weekend date December /5/2020
Thank u

Arborist services , December 2, 2020 , posted by Steven tomat , Stomat@therealtreemasters.ca

I am reaching out to you to extend our arborist services to your park. A little bit about us we have been in business for 8 years now. We have all our licenses and insurance. Our climbers and crew are highly skilled and professional. I would like to offer our services to the park. If your interested have a look at our web site and see for yourself. I look forward to working with you in the future.

feeding times, December 2, 2020 , posted by karen , karengrundy6@gmail.com

greetings..i am wondering when feeding times happen at the high park zoo?...thanks!

racoons/coyote, November 26, 2020 , posted by John , johnjenglish@rogers.com

Two questions...are some of the racoons in the park sick with rabies. And I saw today a coyote with a collar with what it looks like a tracking devise on it. Any body know these two questions

feeding a Coyote, November 22, 2020 , posted by John , johnjenglish@rogers.com

During my early morning run the pathway along the pond I saw a couple feeding a coyote, I could not tell what it was they were feeding it. (the black one) They were up the hill, I went to them a suggested they do not do that and told them the reason why. They told me to #### off and mind my own business. I hope someone is going to do something about this, more signs, large fines. Someone is going to get a bite one day, and the animal will have to be put down.

Bird banding station in the park?, November 12, 2020 , posted by Vicki Grant Deakin , victoria.deakin@sympatico.ca

I am an avid birder and know that Bird Clubs, banding groups and Raptor obervation groups are active in the park yet there is no mention of them on the website.
For example, I have read about and been told that there is a bird banding station that operates somewhere in high park (I assume seasonally) but I can not find any mention of its operations on the website. I would be interested to know where in the park this takes place and contact information to get more info / volunteer for the group.
As well, I know that there is a Hawk migration observation group that operates in the park in a location called “Hawk Hill” but I can not locate this landmark on any of your maps. This would be helpful to know where Hawk Hill is located in order to visit and / or volunteer.

Lights at the playground, November 11, 2020 , posted by Lyndsay , howittml@gmail.com

Hi,

Yesterday I was at the new playground in High Park with my niece. The playground is fantastic and the children really seem to love it. We were there around 530 pm and it was pitch dark already, however there were lots and lots of kids at the playground with their parents. Since it was so dark, many of the parents were trying to keep track of their children with the flashlights on their phones. I was wondering if there is a plan to put lights in around the playground. Because there are limited options to play indoors this year (due to covid), I think more and more children might be using the playground to safely play outside. Having some lights around the playground might really help. I understand if this is not possible, but I just thought I would bring it up as a bunch of parents were talking about it last night. Thank you again for installing the lovely playground! We love High Park and feel grateful to live close by.

Kind regards,
Lyndsay

Tents in the bush , October 24, 2020 , posted by Cathyann White , cathyann.white@gmail.com

Walking my dog along the trails running parallel to Parkside Drive I noticed two separate encampments. Each appears to be housing one male. The tents have been there for some time. I have seen one man who lives in the large white tent trying to start a camp fire around dusk. Location : between off leash roadway and Parkside just north of Howard Park deep in the ravine near the creek and the other is higher up near the tennis courts.

Capybaras, October 16, 2020 , posted by Sonja Thomason , sonja500@outlook.com

Are the capybaras still there? Do they go somewhere else inside for the winter months?

lost iPhone, October 12, 2020 , posted by Annmarie Adams , annmarie.adams@mcgill.ca

Hi, My daughter Katie Adams-Gossage lost her iPhone 8, orange cover ("Take a Risk"), somewhere between Colborne Lodge and Grenadier Pond some time this afternoon just after 2:30. If someone turned one in, please contact me by email or phone 514 927 0878. We would be very grateful to have it back as it is precious to her. Thank you, Annmarie Adams

Parking, October 10, 2020 , posted by Sabina M , sabinauae@yahoo.com

Cars were not allowed in the park this morning. I cannot walk long distances so had to come back. When do you allow cars inside the park?

Fall colors , September 28, 2020 , posted by Esha Jones , jones.esha@gmail.com

When is the right time to see the fall colors? Have the trees changed their colors yet?

Closed gates, September 27, 2020 , posted by Lianet , lianet1301@gmail.com

Hi, I realized that the gates are closed on the weekends. Was wondering what exact days and times do they close and open the gates. E.g., Gates close Fri @5pm
??

Weekend parking: open or closed?, September 27, 2020 , posted by Allison , Corbettag@yahoo.ca

Please update your website to inform users whether you are allowing vehicle and parking access on weekends. Speculation on social media is inconclusive and silence (or outdated info about cherry blossom season) is not helpful to users. Thank you!

changes in off leash due to covid?, September 25, 2020 , posted by Dara Roth Edney , drothedney@me.com

Hello. Wondering if the off-leash dog trails in High Park are still open or if there have been any changes due to Covid.
Thank you

Key found, September 20, 2020 , posted by Jill Lowery , juudithjlowery@yahoo.ca

Key found in grass north east corner of high park ... small key with red upper bearing an emblem ...found week of September 13-20 ... Wednesday or Thursday I think.

Castle, September 17, 2020 , posted by Victoria , yarmyarm@ymail.com

I was wondering if the castle play structure is open

Lost Souvenir Baseball Cap, September 12, 2020 , posted by BONNIE DELL 647-523-7814 , bonniedell7814@gmail.com

REWARD!
Giving a reward to anyone who has found my special souvenir baseball cap. It’s turquoise and has a number of Canadian flag lapel pins on it as well as a Scotland lapel pin and rooster & hen brooches. Lost Sunday Sep 6th in the northeast quadrant of the park.
Heartbroken ... BONNIE Dell 647-523-7814

high park washrooms open for phase 3, September 8, 2020 , posted by shaheen bagha , shaheen.bagha@gmail.com

Hi, I was wondering if the high park washrooms are open to the public during phase 3 of re-opening

Lost souvenir baseball cap, September 8, 2020 , posted by BONNIE Dell , bonniedell7814@gmail.com

I posted a Lost & Found-related post on Monday Sep 7th regarding a very special souvenir baseball cap lost in the park Sunday Sep 6th. To date I have not seen my post on your FAQ website. Am I looking in the wrong place? If so, please advise where I should look for my posting. I’m crushed that I lost this special cap and am doing everything I know to retrieve it. Please respond ASAP. thank you. Bonnie

Picnic areas, September 6, 2020 , posted by Adam , adamrb@me.com

Hi. In the picnic section, It would be helpful to include a map showing where picnics sites are in the park.

Dogs, September 2, 2020 , posted by brenda valdiviezo , valdiviezob18@gmail.com

Are dogs allowed in the castle playground and the zoo?

Invasive turtle, September 2, 2020 , posted by Peter Welsh , pgwelsh@gmail.com

I took photos of a Red-eared Slider Turtle today in the lower stormwater pond near Queensway and Parkside. Thought you should know. I know you have your hands full with invasive plant species but add this to the list.

Train concern , August 30, 2020 , posted by erin maszczakiewicz , erin_003@hotmail.com

Train concern - the train should not be driving in the off leash area its extremely dangerous. Especially since you do not allow cars in the park on the weekend there are plenty of roads without vulnerable small animals to hit.

Water , August 28, 2020 , posted by Colleen , renee1369@hotmail.com

My daughter was at the zoo today and the highland cattle had no water it was drinking from the trough dirt ... please give enough water it’s terrible

washrooms, August 27, 2020 , posted by Teresa , mtmdcs@hotmail.com

where is the nearest public washroom to the Grenadier Restaurant?

Thank you

Reserve gazebo at High Park, August 25, 2020 , posted by Yusuf Mai , yusuf.mai@gmail.com

Hi, can I book gazebo (area with covered and bench and table) at High Park nowadays during the pandemic? If so, what is the process of booking them?

Thanks
Yusuf

Lost and found, August 25, 2020 , posted by Christopher Owens , owens.chris25@gmail.com

Hello,

I was wondering who to contact if there is some sort of lost and found. I have lost my black MEC backpack as well as my passport.

Thank you,

Chris
9059781466
owens.chris25@gmail.com

Which bathrooms are open, August 20, 2020 , posted by Katherine , Katherine.barcsay@hotmail.com

Hi there,

Just wondering which park bathrooms are currently in use. I know some are closed due to Covid.
Thanks,

Katherine

Trackless train, August 20, 2020 , posted by Madison Loh , lohmadison@gmail.com

Hi! Is the trackless train running currently with covid? If so, do you have a schedule of where and how to find the train? The website isn’t working currently. Thank you so much.

Inquiry , August 19, 2020 , posted by Nora , noraf32@gmail.com

Hi there,

I’m wondering if it’s possible for one to bring their own chairs, blankets, etc. to sit on at the park incase all the picnic tables are occupied.

Playground beside splash pad, August 18, 2020 , posted by Maria , Gabriela.villoria@gmail.com

Hi, I wanted to know when are you going to open the playground beside the splash pad is looking amazing and my daughter is so excited to go there.
Thanks
Maria

Hours, August 17, 2020 , posted by Chris , chriskonto@yahoo.com

I visited the park yesterday (Aug. 16, 2020) but cars were not being allowed in because the park was closed. I was wondering when the park will be open to cars in the future?

Fishing, August 16, 2020 , posted by PEDRO M PRETO , preto.88.p@gmail.com

Just wanted to find out if we are allowed
To kayak in Grenadier Pond?

Cyclists speeding, August 15, 2020 , posted by Steve , Steven.fulford78@gmail.com

Saturday August 15 @ 11:30 a large group of cyclists (40+) were speeding down Spring Garden Road and almost ran over 4 dogs and 2 children. Not one of the cyclists stopped. Dogs could be killed by these inconsiderate cyclists. Can signs be posted to keep cyclists off Spring Garden as it is an off leash area for dogs. City must have liability here for allowing both in an uncontrolled setting

High park, August 14, 2020 , posted by Monika Grewal , monika.26@hotmail.com

hello

What is open at high park during covid? Is the train ride operating?

Lost grey folding bike, August 10, 2020 , posted by Pauline Echas , pauline.echas@gmail.com

Good day,
I hope this email finds you well. I would like to inquire if you have found a foldable gray bike in the park because my nephew had an accident while biking and we had to leave to go to the hospital right away and left the children bike and the foldable bike. It was a friday afternoon. We had left it near the cafe. If you have any information at all please please message me. I would really appreciate it. Thank you so much for your time. My phone number is 4166050710. Thank you again!

Pauline Echas, RPN

Invasive species, August 9, 2020 , posted by Nicole babin , babinphoto@gmail.com

Hi there, I was at the zoo this week in Hyde Park and noticed all along the entrance on both sides all through the park is the invasive species strangling dog vine. It looks like it has taken over the park. Not sure if you know

RC Sailboat, August 8, 2020 , posted by Peter , pdawk11@gmail.com

Hello. I see there are no boats allowed on the pond. Does that include radio controlled sail boats? (650mm)
Thank you

Is the park open?, August 7, 2020 , posted by Inna Baskina , innabaskina@gmail.com

Good afternoon!
Could you please let me know if the park is now fully open for public?
Thank you,
Inna

Banana tree inquiry, August 5, 2020 , posted by Hendry , Hmt_81@yahoo.com

Hello,

I noticed that there are several Musa Basjoo banana trees at the High Park entrance landmark - I love banana trees and been trying to purchase them in nurseries around Toronto but couldn’t find any. I know that banana tree usually has a lot of pups (small banana seedlings) around the main tree. I was wondering if you would be willing to share or sell 1-2 of these pups as I would like to plant one in my place? I also don’t mind if you want to share it once it’s about to get colder in the fall. Hope to hear from you and thank you in advance.

Is the park open 24 hours?, August 4, 2020 , posted by Jishnu Cheekapravan , cjishnu616@gmail.com

Hi, is the park open 24 hours now? I am planning to watch a meteor shower on 12th August which is most visible after midnight.

Rules for tennis courts, July 30, 2020 , posted by Ian , Iandejardin2@gmail.com

The ‘rules’ for use of courts are unfortunately open to several interpretations, leading to occasional unpleasant confrontations. 1. The system of hanging racquets on the 1,2,3 board- some interpret the numbers as referring to individual courts; some see it as the lineup order. 2. The ‘half-hour rule’: this is particularly problematic - one belligerent player insists that sessions begin and end on the half hour - he tries to intimidate other players off who may have only got onto the court at 10 minutes to the hour or half hour. Others (me!) note their start time and time 30 minutes from then; others still assume that the half hour starts from the moment a new arrival hangs up their racquet. And so on. We’ve had 3 stand-offs just in the last week. All could be solved if the signage was clearer! In the meantime, some guidance would be appreciated! Thanks!

Fall/Halloween Events, July 28, 2020 , posted by Tara , tlcwfireheart@hotmail.com

Hello, I just wanted to know if you will be offering any halloween / fall events this year such as the high park ghost tour / haunted walk ?

Thank you !

Closed to cars without notice?, July 25, 2020 , posted by Marianna , mariannambet@gmail.com

I came today Jul 25 with kids just to spend an hour driving around the park looking for car entrance. Every single one was closed. No note anywhere, not even on this website. Please update the website to make it clear that cars are not allowed and park is now a private place for people who can get there by foot.

Pedestrian safety, July 18, 2020 , posted by Geanina Smau , geaninadiva@hotmail.com

Hi, this issue is been going on for a long while, but lately it seems to an extreme. The side walks are very busy with cyclists to the point that you have to move from the way otherways they will run you over. Especially between High Park Ave to Windemere. Please help the pedestrians walk safe! If not, please guide me to the right office. Thank you!

Parking on weekends, July 18, 2020 , posted by Joao Batista Padilha , jbpadilha@gmail.com

Hello

Why the public parking at High Park is closed on weekends?
It should remain open to allow people from other areas come and enjoy ithe park.
It also would help people bring their bicycles and go down at Lake shore.

Plants, July 10, 2020 , posted by Lynda Kelly , studioworld@gmail.com

Someone mentioned there may be some extra plants that they were giving out. Is it possible to know when this is or when it would be next time?

Many thanks, the park looks so awesome especially the wild gardens around the restaurant I say yesterday

Zoo, July 10, 2020 , posted by Jaime , jaimeangelopoulos@hotmail.com

Hi!

Just wondering if the high park zoo is open?

Thanks
Jaime

Wildlife Protection High Park, July 7, 2020 , posted by Angela Knowles

There is signage to identify and indicate no entry to protected wildlife areas in the park. Still, visitors continue to enter these areas and to feed wildlife, and get very close to take desired photos, therefore potentially disturbing nesting birds, turtles, etc. This could also be dangerous for humans as well as the wildlife.

It is not only the responsibility of municipal authorities to educate those who mistakenly or otherwise are entering these prohibited wildlife areas; it is the responsibility of citizens, including High Park volunteers.

We and the our natural environment would greatly benefit by paying attention to signage, respecting and being open to learning more from others about how to honour and protect our wildlife and biodiversity in general.

Grenadier Pond shoreline, July 6, 2020 , birches198@gmail.com

High Park and Grenadier Pond shoreline is experiencing extremely high volumes of visitors putting a lot of stress on wildlife in time of nesting and off-springs coming out. To protect species and shoreline buffers, signage was posted in 2015 along the north end of the pond all the way to the beach to inform visitors about important the rules.

It is very unfortunate, that a large number of visitors pays not attention to posted signage and enters shoreline where "Wildlife Protection Area Do Not Enter" sign is posted and engage in some form of wildlife disturbance and trampling of shoreline. Lately entering of shoreline wildlife buffers became rampant along the entire area starting with Wendigo Pond and the bench along this shoreline. Taking images up close, whole families entering and trying to interact with wildlife, massive feeding (lots of bread), climbing over fallen trees, direct disturbance such as touching of wildlife or poking with sticks, trampling of shoreline buffers, fishing in restricted portion of the pond. Visitors are not aware about protections critical for Environmentally Significant Area to provide safe habitat to the species despite of existing signage.

This area needs more signage also the City must use all channel available to educate public. The enforcement is necessary for those who repeatedly defy the rules!

pond path , July 4, 2020 , posted by Y. Chen

A couple is chastising people by the north end of Grenadier Pond. I was reprimanded for stopping to take a photo of the swans in the middle of the pond and told that it wrong for me to be there. I walk the length of the park along the pond path every day and I have been stopped twice this week by this couple.

spam question, July 4, 2020

"What is the opposite of black?"

might not be the most prudent spam question in this moment

Unsolicited Pond Lecturer, July 3, 2020 , posted by Jane E.

In the first week of July there has been a woman self-assigned as a protector of Grenadier Pond/the wood duck & mallard duck population, along the north east portion of the main pond trail at around 8:30- 9:30 pm (and possibly other times).

She is not a city employee and does not identify herself as a High Park steward or member of a recognized bird advocacy project. (She does not identify herself at all). She may be aware of some facts, but does not seem to be acting within High Park and Covid 19 protocols, community nature advocacy best practices or human rights awareness.

She has been aggressively lecturing the very few people who stop along the trail to look at the pond and birds, accusing responsible park users of killing birds, destroying the pond. She loudly and continuously lectures passersby at the quiet nesting area and can be heard throughout the trails above the pond. It seems that, in her perception, others are a threat and need to go while she is a benevolent asset to the pond. She accuses people without dogs of enabling daily duck killings by dogs (while simultaneously bemoaning the fact that she has not seen any coyotes this year on the pond trail) and has suggested that a fence needs to put up to keep people away. It can be difficult to negotiate a way around her while maintaining physical distancing. At times, people walking in both directions have been impeded from passing due to her positioning on the path. She becomes more insistent and intense when her stance and facts are questioned. Declining interaction is not heeded. She will not stop until people leave the area which she has claimed. She is accompanied by a quiet male partner and is now carrying printed sheets of paper that she thrusts towards people.

These are stressful times in which many are trying to maintain physical distance and limit interaction and continue coming to the park for a quiet walk. I have worked as an educator for thirty years, have lived within a block of High Park for twenty years, and have been a part of recent city bird advocacy projects. I have never encountered this woman before. It is the wood ducks and mallards that are present in the area which she is patrolling. They are often on the trails above as well and have coexisted with people in the park for decades and are part of a city population. Neither are endangered.

If there is messaging that High Park would like to express, this may not be the person, or means for the scenario. Anyone in such a role should have communications training and, at the moment, pandemic awareness. This does not seem to be informed advocacy or protection. It seems more egoic righteousness and is presented in a harassing and emotionally elevated manner.

Train, July 1, 2020 , posted by Helen , helen.delaney@ddrops.ca

Is the train running thru the park?

Poor conditions of pond, June 23, 2020 , posted by Erin , erin.jackson1@gmail.com

Hello,

My family and I live across the street from the park and frequent it almost every day. We’ve been visiting the pond off Spring Road (near the off leash dog area) to look at all the tadpoles and more recently frogs. We’ve noticed though that the quality of water has really deteriorated over the past number of months. The water is incredibly murky and is filled with garbage and an unnatural looking film on top. The appearance of the water itself is of concern but we also saw many dead frogs in the area as well.

We saw some new additional blocks at the far end of the pond near the small bridge, which made water levels higher so I’m not sure if there’s some sort of project going on here but I just wanted to reach out to express my concern about the current state of the water.

If there’s any chance you might be able to provide me with an update or any information, I’d really appreciate it.

Kind regards,
Erin

Snapping Turtle Nest Protection, June 17, 2020 , posted by Catherine Reid , catherinereid298@hotmail.com

Hello, I have also send this message to the HP Nature Centre. I was running early this morning (June 17 at 7:00 a.m.) and as I made my way up Cherry Blossom Hill I came across a mature female snapping turtle digging its hole(nest?) to deposit its eggs. Sadly the spot the turtle selected is in a high traffic area and am concerned that, unless baracaded, the nest will be trampled and eggs compromised. The location is approximately one-quarter of the way up the hill on the pond side (west). It is right along the edge of the curb where it intersects with one of the trails onto the ravine. If you need more details where to locate please contact me. I hope you are able to help protect this beautiful turtle and its future offspring. Thank you.

Driving to high park , June 12, 2020 , posted by Alexandra Hopkins , alexandra_25@me.com

Is high park open to cars on weekends now?

Bathrooms, June 11, 2020 , posted by Cathy , cathymathison@hotmail.com

I just called 311 to inquire as to when the bathrooms would be open in the park. They said that bathroom #39 opened on June 6. Can you please tell me where that bathroom is and when others in the park will be opening? Thanks!

coyote, June 10, 2020 , posted by john , johnjenglish@rogers.com

I saw the same coyote I saw two Sundays ago on the Queensway. This time I was driving, It was 08:40 a.m. I pulled onto Parkside off High Park Rd. There is an opening on the park side where the kids park is. The Coyote was just standing there. He was not afraid of the cars, as people were slowing down to see it. I mentioned it to other runners and they have seen it also in that area. Does anybody know if the female is still around, and or have they seen any coyote pups

Wood Ducks, June 10, 2020 , posted by Stella , mercourious@icloud.com

Last year there were beautiful wood ducks in the sloping pond south of the restaurant...the one inclosed by wrought iron fence. The other day there was not even water in it. Will it be filled? Are wood ducks an annual feature? Thank you for taking the time with this.

Coyote, June 7, 2020 , posted by John , johnjenglish@rogers.com

I was running at 0645 this Morning along the Queensway walkway just west of the pond by Spring road. About twenty yards away It looked like a big German Shepherd. I stopped and walked toward the animal to look for its owners, it was not a dog but a large dark haired coyote, he did not move, I unzipped my jacked and made myself as large as I could and yelled at it to scat. He turned and went into the bushes, as I walked slowly by I saw him in the bush looking at me, I yelled again and he left all the time he was eyeing me. All my years running in the park I have seen coyote but never one as big as this?

crab apple trees , June 6, 2020 , posted by Sophie czyzewski , czyzewskisophie@gmail.com

The crab apple trees at the southern end of the park near Colborne Lodge on the Queensway have either light or dark pink flowers. Are they 2 different varieties of crab apple?
Many thanks,
Sophie

Parking, June 6, 2020 , Leigh.a.ayres@gmail.com

Is the parking lot still closed. Park reopened in May but parking lot was still closed.

Driving In To High Park, June 5, 2020 , posted by Annie , anniedong@ymail.com

Hi there,

Can you please confirm if cars are allowed to drive in to high park? Thank you!

Stinging nettle , June 5, 2020 , posted by Sarah , dsarahmarie@gmail.com

Hi there,

We enjoyed a lovely afternoon and the park but came in contact with some stinging nettle that left our toddler and I covered in hives. The patch is right near a large common area. It’s not something I’m familiar with so maybe other folks know to steer clear. I thought I would reach out just in case this is case where additional signage might be needed so that others don’t end up in the same boat.

Thanks so much. So happy to have access to the park during these uncertain times!

crab trees along The Queensway, May 27, 2020 , posted by sophie czyzewski , czyzewskisophie@gmail.com

Along the southern end of High Park by The Queensway at Colborne
Lodge are several crab apple trees. Their flowers are either pink or red. Are they both the same specie? In other words, will the red flowers turn pink as they age? There is a difference of opinion on this issue between my hubby and me.
Many thanks,
Sophie

Dog park, May 20, 2020 , posted by Arnob , arnob.niloy21@gmail.com

I was under the impression that the dog parks are opening up today. I was there in the morning, just to find it closed, although I keep seeing mayor Tory opening dog parks, on cp24. I would like to know what is going on please? When are you actually going to open?

Is High Park open?, May 20, 2020 , posted by ELIA SKARDA , eliaskarda82@gmail.com

Hello, is High Park open to the public again (May 20, 2020). I know it was closed because of the cherry blossom.

Washroom, May 20, 2020 , posted by Keith rasmussen , Kiwikeith.r@gmail.com

What is the logic behind keeping washroom closed?

Dog park, May 19, 2020 , posted by Arnob , arnob.niloy21@gmail.com

I was under the impression that the dog parks are opening up today. I was there in the morning, just to find it closed, although I keep seeing mayor Tory opening dog parks, on cp24. I would like to know what is going on please? When are you actually going to open?

is the park opened , May 19, 2020 , posted by marina stiso , MARINASTISO@ICLOUD.COM

is the park opened for walks

Opening, May 18, 2020 , posted by Scott Hyman , Srhyman@rogers.com

I am an amateur wildlife photographer in Toronto and understand that there are places in the park where wildlife (mammals) is frequently seen. Is the park currently open to the public to walk through? What is the best time to go to see and photograph wildlife? Which part of the park is the best area to try and find wildlife?

Off leash dog areas, May 18, 2020 , posted by David , 64fillmore@gmail.com

I was walking along Spring Road this morning, in the area that is marked as Off-leash, there were a number of dogs that were off leash. Does the emergency notice of closure of dog parks not apply to Spring Road, are we still allowed to have our dogs off leash on Spring Road?

Trash and Garbage around high park , May 18, 2020 , posted by Dr. Tushar Mehta , tushar.toronto@gmail.com

Dear high park friends. I have lived in the area for 5 years and about once a week I go for a long walk and pick up large an small garbage on the main paths but even from small trails and bushes. Unfortunately the situation is getting worse. However I do believe that there are many people who love the park.

Idea: could we make signs asking people to help pick a few pieces of trash whenever they use the park. It could be a local tradition. The effect would be huge even if 5% of people did it. And it would remind people not to throw things.

I do see if there is a friends of high park FB or instagram where people can post their clean ups and also wonderful pics they take of the park experience. Perhaps there could be monthly Social walks where people clean together. I have seen these initiatives help in other places where they seemed even less likely. Best wishes!

High Park Permitted fishing area, May 17, 2020 , 198birches@gmail.com

This is to respond to inquiry regarding fishing and Park rules, May 14, 2020

From your description, it is not entirely clear what was exact location where you stumbled upon fisher.

FYI, fishing is only permitted on the Grenadier Pond in High Park, no other ponds, and only along portion of the shoreline. Please,see the Map: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/96df-High_Park_Permitted_Fishing_Area.pdf

Public is not to interfere with fishing activities under normal circumstance. If you are aware of fishing in restricted area of Grenadier Pond, report it to 311.

is it open, May 15, 2020 , posted by isabel borisov , isabelborisov@gmail.com

hi i was wondering if high park is opening with the first stage of fords plan

Park rules, May 14, 2020 , posted by Lori Lougheed , llough25@yahoo.ca

Hello, I was walking on the dirt path right next to grenadier park yesterday around 6:00 pm, to get a closer look at the swans and ducks, when I came upon a young man who was fishing. He had totally blocked the path with his stool in the middle, which he was sitting on. I couldn’t walk behind him because he had his bicycle there and and fishing equipment was in front on him. The path winds and there is a lot of brush so I didn’t see him until I was upon him. My only options were; to turn back, walk up the hill behind him or step over his fishing pole, which was sitting on the ground. Going all the way back seemed ridiculous, I have a bad knee (I’m 55), so I told him I was stepping over this fishing pole that was lying on the ground in front of him. I have a photo of his setup. He did not offer to move in fact he became angry with me and told me I was lazy for not going up the hill and that it was “illegal to interfere with an angler”. I didn’t intend to interfere with him only to pass by using the public path in the public park that he had blocked off. So what are the rules? Does he have the right to block the path? Do visitors to the park have the expectation that they have a right to use all pathways within the park? It would be helpful to know this for future visits to the park.

Allotment garden, May 13, 2020 , posted by Jen Bolton , jenbolton12@gmail.com

Hi,
I was on a walk today and I stumbled across the Allotment garden. I live across the street and I was wondering how I can become a part of this. I was an avid gardener and now I live in a condo and miss my yard terribly.
Thank you

Parking lot, May 12, 2020 , posted by Josh

I heard that the park is open now.

Can I use the parking lot?
or just taking a walk is allowed?

Injured duck, May 12, 2020 , posted by Kim , 2boyhowdy@gmail.com

Female mallard in long at bottom of Parkside Drive just N ot Queensway. Yellow plastic bad around neck & also inside mouth between upper & lower beak. Cannot eat

Open ?, May 12, 2020 , posted by Emma , emma.8.v@gmail.com

BBQ is available in high park know ?

Open High Park, May 10, 2020 , posted by Jonathan , jjlarrad@gmail.com

Keeping some areas in lockdown but not others is like having a peeing section in the swimming pool.

opening, May 8, 2020 , posted by anna , cafeluna181@gmail.com

Why is the WHOLE park still closed??? Clearly it would be very easy to cordon off the area where the trees are, and it would cost the city alot less money.

Sakura Sabbatical, May 5, 2020 , posted by Eric Mason

Although the closure of High Park is disappointing, it will give the cherry trees a respite from the inconsiderate minority who selfishly damage them every spring.

When will we be able to garden! , May 4, 2020 , posted by Nicole , inkslingingwordsmith@yahoo.ca

Is the park open yet? When can I get to my allotment garden?
Thanks, Nicole

High Park closure, May 3, 2020 , posted by Robin Harvey , robinharvey@live.com

When do you intend to reopen the park? Do you have blossom inspectors? It was ludicrous to close it as early as you did. Shame!

Construction in the park?, May 2, 2020 , posted by Stella , szhang915@gmail.com

Hello,

I live on Bloor intersecting with Quebec Ave. Since this morning there has been a crew operating trucks and excavators at the park. The operation has been quite disturbing to residents nearby. What is going on? Why are they digging a hole on the ground in the park?

Stella

High Park is Closed - you need to update your website, May 1, 2020

You should probably update your Cherry Blossom landing page to state that the park is closed.

Park closure, April 30, 2020 , posted by Rudy

Although well intentioned, the park closure is now crowding the surrounding sidewalks and green patches. Surely the City could find a way to use the fencing to open areas unrelated to the cherry trees. I am now in close proximity with people in the sidewalks more so than any other day I was in the park. City should do a better job accommodating the need to close the cherry trees with keeping a reasonable portion open.

High Park is Closed, April 30, 2020 , posted by Eric Mason

High Park is now closed for the duration of the cherry blossom season.

Park Closure, April 30, 2020 , posted by David

Although this web site has not yet caught up with the news (9am 30th April). The park is now CLOSED until the blossom is finished.

Please confirm...High Park is closed., April 29, 2020 , posted by Christian

Dear High Park...Please update your homepage...it says
"The park is open but amenities inside the parks are closed." This is not completely accurate, and with so many access points to the park, many people are going to end up getting a $750 ticket or more. As reported on City News, the city has closed High Park as of Apr 30th...all of it! My understanding is no pedestrians, no cars, no cyclists are allowed in...only Park Staff, squirrels and a select group of raccoons. Joking aside... Please update your website homepage including confirmation of park closure with clear details for people...specially for those whose first language is not English.

Blossom Cam, April 29, 2020 , posted by Marc , Lichtenbergmarc@outlook.com

Have you considered an occasional view of the cherry trees from a drone cam? I think you could get some great shots from above the trees and provide video files online.
Enjoy the spring.

Cherry Blossom Park Closure, April 29, 2020 , posted by Jay , fluffee69@hotmail.com

Hello... I am a local neighbour to High Park and run there every day. Do you know where the official City site is that will announce the closure to the Park when the blooms come out? I see them out already :)

cherry blossom, April 27, 2020 , posted by Pauline , pomwu@yahoo.ca

Dear High Park officer,

May I know if there is any limit of visitors to the park now?
This is my first year living in Toronto. I want to see the cherry blossoms on May 4, 2020.

Rgds,
Pauline

Distancing and cherry blossoms, April 26, 2020 , posted by Paul

For those of us living in the area of high lark and seeing the seasonal deluge of people from the GTA to come to the lark for the cherry blossom season, you know you will not be able to drive to the park and please don’t use our streets as parking lots because you shouldn’t be in the park to begin with.
There will be no way to physically distance with the amount of people who come and the confined space so do yourselves and everybody else a favor and PLEASE stay home as you’re supposed to. Don’t risk it or put others at risk by coming to the lark and surrounding area when it’s closed. PLEASE!

masks, April 25, 2020 , posted by Janice C.

OK lets not be nice. When I am walking in High Park and you do not have a mask on you are trying to kill me. So today when I am going for a walk in the park and you do not have a mask on beware I will start screaming at you. You are inconsiderate to the well being of everyone else, and obviously an arrogant jerk. Can anybody explain to me what the difference is to that person who shot all those people out east or someone spreading a deathly virus to innocent people in High Park.

cherry blossom trees, April 25, 2020 , posted by Barry B

I have an idea nobody likes to hear but everybody living in the High Park area is thinking. Cut the Cheery Blossom trees down. For almost two weeks you cannot get out or into your neighbourhood due to traffic. That whole area has to be cleaned, due to garbage. They do not spend any money in our area. They still climb the trees and if they get hurt they WILL sue the city. Two years ago the blossoms lasted three days but still caused all the above. There is only 15 trees, there are about another hundred thousand trees in the park. Sorry to say what everybody in our neighbour hood is thinking but to chicken to say

High Park, April 25, 2020 , posted by Peter

I used to be in the park 6 days a week running. I have left my house three times in the last 5 weeks to shop with mask and gloves. When the park closes and you catch somebody in the park a fine is not good enough. If they want to be in the park, then fine them, give them a rake and they can start from Bloor to the Lakeshore. That would save our tax money for something else.

High Park Closure , April 24, 2020 , posted by Vanessa

The closure of the park will only cause people (like myself) to go to other areas such as the Sunnyside Pavilion boardwalk to get their fill of fresh air/nature escape, which will cause more of us to be in close proximity.
Closure of some of the park makes more sense as it will only crowd other areas :(

Cycling, April 23, 2020 , posted by Patrick , harpa@utschools.ca

Is High park still open to cyclists?

Virtual Tour, April 23, 2020 , posted by Dehemi Jayasekera , deh911@rtms.ca

I heard that High Park is going virtual? Am I correct?

High Park should be a closed park like all others in Ontario. Stay Home!, April 23, 2020 , posted by Kim Williams

Don’t understand why the park is allowed to be open when parks, sports fields, skate parks, trail ways and other physical, exercising, social amenities were ordered closed. I live in Caledon and stopped going on the Caledon Trailway weeks ago for this reason. If it somehow allowed to stay open then law enforcement should have been assigned to monitor bc some people are not cooperating with the laws put in place. They should be fined just like others have been. Doesn’t make sense why this wasn’t put in place or enforced now when John Tory would know it would be a hazard

Cherry blossom , April 22, 2020 , posted by Johanna , joaniecwilson43@hotmail.com

I have never been to your beautiful park. Looking forward to a virtual tour.

Walking in the Park, April 22, 2020 , posted by Margot Van Sluytman , margotvansluytman44@gmail.com

Good-Afternoon, Can you please tell me if folks can still walk in the Park? Thank you.

cherry blossoms, April 22, 2020 , posted by Deborah , deborah.smith@sunlife.com

Hi please let me know how i can watch the cherry blossoms online i heard that you are doing a live stream. Thank you

Dog walks , April 22, 2020 , posted by Debra Berman , berman@sympatico.ca

Hi
I live near the park . Walk everyday with my dog. I enter from Ellis park road walk over Alone. We stay well away from people. I have Respected each of the closures. Am I still able to walk my dog on leash through the park. ? Are you closing all access completely. It’s not clear

Spring Road, April 21, 2020 , posted by John MacMillan , jae.macmillan@yahoo.ca

I also wonder if Spring Road is open. On Monday, there was caution take across the lower end. The next day, the caution take was gone and lots of people were cycling, walking, and running.. along with dogs on and off leash. I’m told that staff removed the caution tape because it was mistakenly place there. It would be nice to get an official statement.

Spring Road, April 20, 2020 , posted by J. MacMillan , jae.macmillan@yahoo.ca

Is Spring Road closed? I was given an $880 ticket on the southern / lower end today. The bylaw officer pointed out lettering on the pavement that says “ON LEASH” (matching similar lettering on the northern end). I was not with a dog. The ticket says, “fail to comply with an order during a declared emergency, contrary to a recreational amenity”. I was lifting my bike over caution tape. I was not with a dog. What amenity was I using?

Dead Animal , April 16, 2020 , posted by Vanessa , vanessakoepke84@gmail.com

Hi,

Two issues I wanted to bring to whomever’s attention:

1. There was a dead animal floating in the pond/waterway closest to the large kids playground (it’s pretty much adjacent to it).
2. It seems there are not enough garbage bins, especially throughout the unpaved trails, as I see an immense amount of dog poo bags being thrown on the ground.

Hopefully both issues can be resolved.

Thank you for you time/consideration.

Best,

Vanessa Koepke

Off leash path , April 15, 2020 , posted by Liz , lizbitze@gmail.com

I’m confused as to why the paved dog path for off leash walking has been blocked off. It’s just forcing the dog walkers into the narrow forest paths, creating more traffic. People are leaving their dogs off leash and I don’t blame them, dogs need to run around. But it’s leaving less space for people who are out walking or joggers. If there is no enforcement for keeping dogs leashed in the posted signed areas, what’s the point?

Road closures , April 14, 2020 , posted by Blue , colonelfriday@hotmail.com

Just wondering if spring road is closed and are dogs allowed to be off leash on spring road?

Fearless Prediction Final of the Blossoms of Cherry Trees at High park, April 12, 2020 , posted by Nobby , nobbycosmic@yahoo.co.jp

This is the prediction final: The calculated figures show that the beginning of the blooming on April 22 +/- 2 days and the full bloom on April 29 +/- 2 days. No changes from the prediction #2 on March 28. I have no way to confirm the blooming this year but it is a civic duty not to venture into the park at present. For more details on the predictions, send me e-mail.

COVID, April 8, 2020 , posted by Pamela

I am so pleased to see how well people are respecting the physical distancing in the park. We walk, we step off the path to let others pass by.

KUDOS to Torontonians for continuing to exercise while being thoughtful and considerate of others.

Keep moving, and keep apart!

Thank you everyone for this precious resource.

Concerns, April 6, 2020 , posted by Joélle

I LOVE High Park and am so so so glad it’s still open in these difficult times! I’ve seen City of Toronto and Police vehicles regularly the last week or so, checking for social distancing. That’s good. But I really don’t understand why there are no checks on the MANY dogs off leash not just because the off leash areas are closed - there are paths where this is never checked, year round! Even worse are the many many boys in spandex going so much faster than the posted 20 km/hr, ‘training’ on their racing bikes when the roads are filled with pedestrians of all ages, going in all direction, carefully distancing, and children on their bikes for the first time. Too many people being self centred. It seems a disaster waiting to happen. Which means closing the park to All of us!!!

permit charges, April 2, 2020 , posted by Sidra Ali , sidraali976@gmail.com

Hi, I want to ask that is there any entry fees or ticket for this park, also who much you guys charge for a permit.

closure of high park... or not, April 2, 2020 , posted by Paul Roth , pwroth@icloud.com

After asking the online question "Is High Park Closed" I got a very confusing answer. First it said "All Toronto parks as closed", which I am guessing means "are" closed. But secondly, it goes on to confuse the issue by saying "gatherings of large groups are prohibited". Which of the two statements is correct?

Cherry Blossoms , March 29, 2020 , posted by Esther Cheng , khchengesther@yahoo.ca

Fully understand the park is closed due to COVID-19, is it still possible for park official to update us on the very blossoms using drones to take pictures?

Walking through During Closure?, March 29, 2020 , posted by Thom

I, like Mary, below, would like to know if area residents can walk through during closure. I have not seen signage with details. This is a daily sanity to for many and a route home for others. Everyone who I had seen walking in the park was carefully observing social distancing (humans and dogs) while walking through and not lingering. The only people together were family household units. How is walking on streets safer or healthier? We do not have an inside home space order at present and are permitted to walk on public streets outside of the park. Is all walking through the park prohibited at this time?

Fearless Prediction #2 of the blossoms of Cherry Trees at High park, March 28, 2020 , posted by Nobby , nobbycosmic@yahoo.co.jp

This is the prediction #2. The calculated figures at this point predict: The beginning of the bloom on April 22 +/- 2 days and the full bloom on April 29 +/- 2 days. For more details, send me e-mail.

bike racers in park, March 26, 2020 , posted by l mckenzie

question: why are bike racers allowed to go at great speed round and round the track in high park when the speed limit for cars is 20k. i live near to the park and witness many incidents of bikers swearing and spitting on people who they think are in their way. yesterdaay there were many families walking on the road trying to social distance. a toddler in a trike was shouted at by a bike racer. seriously awful. please consider stopping the bikers once and for all form racing in the park. thankyou

Park closed, March 26, 2020

High Park is closed.

High Park , March 26, 2020 , posted by Marydean , mdmpiano@gmail.com

Today is Mach 26th and I would like to know if I can walk still in High Park ? Is it officially closed to walkers?

Marydean

Covid 19, March 26, 2020 , posted by Liz , Lizdb@rogers.com

Is High Park open or closed because of Covid 19?

Covid-19, March 26, 2020 , posted by David E Berriman , dberriman@gmail.com

Why is high park still open. This is a disaster in waiting.

High Park Closed, March 23, 2020

To clarify: The park is operated by the City and they have authority over closing the park due to the Coronavirus outbreak. This website isn’t operated by the City of Toronto.

Social Distancing and Coronavirus at High Park, March 21, 2020 , posted by ElizabethCherniak , ecerakova@gmail.com

Please consider closing High Park. Ontario Parks has closed all prov parks and people are still going in groups to High Park to walk their dogs or socialize.
We are in a provincial emergency. People are not practicing safe measures thereforeO would appreciate it if you closed the park. Otherwise these people are quite likely to spread coronavirus among the community

Please close before the cherry blossoms or it will be a disaster!
thank you
Elizabeth Cherniak

coronavirus. still open?, March 21, 2020 , posted by cindy rodriguez , cindymelissa85@hotmail.com

hi, out of curiosity, is high park still open due to COVID-19 virus? and if so, is there a time frame?

Coronavirus update, March 21, 2020

Is the park open now with the coronavirus restrictions in place? I assume cherry blossom festivals and events are all cancelled?

Corona, March 20, 2020 , posted by Leigh , Leigh.a.ayres@gmail.com

Is the park still open ?
Is the entrance gates shut?

open now?, March 19, 2020 , posted by Isabel , cjo59@naver.com

Is it still open?

"Corona", March 17, 2020 , posted by Lucas Paraizo , lrparaizo360@hotmail.com

Hi, I want to know with all this fear of the "Corona Virus" the park and facilities are still open?

Fearless Prediction of Cherry Blossoms at High Park #1, March 15, 2020 , posted by Nobby , nobbycosmic@gamil.com

It is time again to predict the cherry blossoms at High Park.
The calculated figures at this point predict: The beginning of blooming at mid-to-late April, with the full bloom one week after that. I will post an up-date in two weeks as Prediction #2. If you want to know more details, send me e-mail.

Photography , March 12, 2020 , posted by Becca , Beccahambley@outlook.com

I seen on your website that wedding photography and engagement shoots are not allowed. I was curious if regular shoots are allowed? There’s a few dresses for a bridal company I’m looking to shoot it’s not for a wedding or an engagement it’s being done to show case the dresses on the company’s Instagram page so would this still fall under that category?

Green space turning green, February 18, 2020 , posted by Denise Sante , dmsonic@gmail.com

Hello. Wondering if someone can guide me as to when during the spring the park starts to look "green" (leaves and grass sprouting)?

Storage lockers, February 13, 2020 , posted by Emilia , elanvyn@gmail.com

Hello!

I was wondering if there is any place in the park like the cafe where I can store my belongings in a locker or cubby? I am a runner and would like a place to put my water bottle and backpack.

Thanks!

through traffic between parkside and bloor, February 12, 2020 , posted by Doina Popescu , doina@doinapopescu.ca

When walking on the road between the castle playground and the exit to Bloor(at the top of the hill), I often see trucks and cars using the road as a through road and driving way faster than 20 kms. This unfortunate phenomenon really disturbs the peace and quiet of the park.

guided tour, February 11, 2020 , posted by michael mak , michael.mak69@yahoo.ca

Any Forestry and Park staff working in the park in February?
How to contact them on weekdays and weekends?

Volunteering Opportunity, January 23, 2020 , posted by Rashid Defraitas , rashidtdefraitas@gmail.com

I am currently a student of Recreational and Leisure Services at Humber College. I would be grateful for an opportunity to volunteer or work part-time to assist with obtaining the first-hand experience in my field. I would be grateful for any opportunity you may have.

Dog Off Leash Area, January 14, 2020 , posted by Derek Coleman , dcoleman@agesplan.com

Can you confirm if the off-leash area will be closed in the future?

Fitbit found, January 5, 2020 , posted by Michele , Michele@live.com.pt

Hi!!!

Today Sunday January 5 I found a Fitbit watch. I would like to find the owner to return!!!

Lost sunglasses, January 2, 2020 , posted by Lisa Sharples , sharples.lisa@gmail.com

My daughter Amanda lost a pair of Ray Ban sunglasses in the dog park yesterday afternoon. They were a Christmas gift and she is very upset. Is there a lost and found where we could check if anyone turned them in?

Artists want to go a huge sculpture install in the park, December 20, 2019 , posted by Jessie , jessie@gillieandmarc.com

Hello,

I work for international artists that are famous for their amazing public art projects about animal conservation. They want to create an amazing blue whale sculpture for the park and we want to see who the best person would be to chat with further?

Thank you!

Forum Archives

Send your comment, message, question or answer »