Summer Week 4: Trillium Park

Hello blog friends! Glad to see you. Come on in to my blog space, make yourself comfortable with a coffee or tea, and let’s chat.

Summer Week 4

Summer week 4, from July 12 to 18 inclusive, was warm with the high temperatures ranged from 27C to 32C (80F to 90F). The humidity returned from Tuesday on, making it felt like 32C to 40C (90F to 104F). The rain on Thursday provided some relief from the heat.

Similar to Summer Week 3, I cycled, walked, exercised, went kayaking twice, meditated, practiced yoga, took language lessons, read four novels, listened to online concerts, and watched one movie. Also had picnic lunches by the lake, ate lots of summer fruit, and enjoyed cold drinks.

I visited several beautiful parks and gardens along the lake shore by bike and on foot. On my kayaking trips to Toronto Islands, a few duck families swam right next to my kayak and the cormorants showed off their perfect dives. In the gardens, lovely hydrangeas and lily flowers are dominant this week.

Trillium Park and William G. Davis Trail

Today is the 7th monthly Wellness Weekend link-up. The optional prompt is A Fun Activity. So I choose to walk along the scenic William G. Davis Trail in Trillium Park at Ontario Place as my fun activity. I hope you join me on this virtual walk.

About The Trail

  • Trail name: William G. Davis Trail, in honour of Bill Davis, who was the Premier when Ontario Place first opened in 1971.
  • Trail entrance: 955 Lake Shore Boulevard West, in Trillium Park, at Ontario Place East entrance.
  • Trail length: 1.3 km. It’s in the green area from the top right to bottom right of the map below.
  • Trail surface: asphalt/ concrete.
  • Trail rating: Easy.
Source: Ontario Place
Source: Ontario Place

Trail Highlights

The Ravine walls with Moccasin Identifier: Once we enter Trillium Park, two beautiful stone walls connected by a bridge frame our first glimpse of Lake Ontario. Developed in collaboration with the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, the Ravine walls celebrate First Nations’ heritage and culture with the moccasin identifier engraved into the stone, a visual reminder to recognize and honour the past.

The Lake views from the trail: On one side, the trail hugs the spectacular waterfront. The vistas around the bends are amazing.

View from William G. Davis Trail
View from William G. Davis Trail
View towards Toronto's city centre
View towards Toronto’s city centre
Around the bend on William G. Davis Trail
Around the bend on William G. Davis Trail
View from William G. Davis Trail
View from William G. Davis Trail

The Park views on the trail: On the other side, the trail is surrounded by thousands of native trees, plants, flowers and beautiful sedimentary rocks and boulders.

The Bluff, Trillium Park, William G. Davis Trail
The Bluff, made up of stacked boulders and rocks, replicates the natural landscape throughout the province, and also offers a long communal sitting area to enjoy the beautiful views out over the lake.
Hough's Glade: This hidden gathering place is a tribute the original Ontario Place landscape architect, Michael Hough.
Hough’s Glade: This hidden gathering place is a tribute the original Ontario Place landscape architect, Michael Hough. Four rocks are arranged in a circle and surrounded by medicinal plants, butterfly bushes and a wild flower meadow. It’s a wonderful place to sit and share stories with friends.

There is also a Fire Pit to hold bonfires when permitted, and the Summit located at the southern tip of the park provides gentle slopes and lush rolling hills to sit on and look out to the lake. Vista Eatery is open with outdoor seating for a quick snack or a leisure meal while gazing at sailboats.

Even though the William G. Davis Trail is only 1.3 km long, it’s a trail that invites a few laps. The rest of the Trillium Park is on 7.5 acres of public green space on a spectacular part of Toronto’s waterfront so there’s much more to explore and enjoy.

View towards Humber Bay
View towards Humber Bay

Conclusion

Summer week 4 was fun and wonderful. I’ve cycled and walked in Trillium Park and on the William G. Davis Trail a few times this summer. I hope you enjoy the virtual walk with me. The weather forecast for week 5 is hot and humid. I look forward to making the most of week 5.

How did your week go? What fun activity did you do? I’d love to hear your comments.

I’m linking up this post to Wellness Weekends 2020 and other link-ups as listed here.

Copyright © 2024 natalietheexplorer.home.blog – All rights reserved.

77 thoughts on “Summer Week 4: Trillium Park

  1. Jill Weatherholt July 19, 2020 / 7:12 am

    The Davis Trail looks lovely, Natalie. I would definitely make a few laps to take in the scenery. The flowers are gorgeous! I especially love hydrangeas. We had a hot and humid week again. Our air conditioning for the upstairs went out yesterday, but thankfully our terrific repair guy had us up and running in no time. Thanks for sharing your beautiful photographs!

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:14 pm

      Jill, That’s fantastic AC repair service you’ve got there. We have hot and humid weather here, too. I do my physical activities in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler than mid-day. One other thing I like about the Davis Trail is that it’s never been busy when I’m there. Just a calm and beautiful place to be in the morning. Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Liked by 1 person

  2. EdinburghCook July 19, 2020 / 8:06 am

    Love the pictures, especially the shoes carved into the rock.

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:17 pm

      Yes, the Moccasins are amazing up close: How precise every cut is and how the shoes look real on a stone wall. Thank you, Alex, for stopping by. Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Like

  3. Betty July 19, 2020 / 8:21 am

    The park looks beautiful. You are making me want to visit Toronto! Hope the next 4 weeks are great for you!

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:18 pm

      Betty, I hope you consider visiting Toronto in the future when it’s safe to do so. Lots to see and do here. Have a wonderful week ahead.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Joanne July 19, 2020 / 8:31 am

    What beautiful trail views!! My hydrangeas are just budding now… first time in 16 years and I can not wait to see those blue blooms. I was away at the start of the week and playing catch-up once we got home so I didn’t get around to a weekend wellness post this month but will be back to join up next month!

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:23 pm

      Joanne, I hope you had a nice get-away and your blue hydrangeas bloom soon. Next month’s Wellness Weekend link up is on August 16. Optional prompt is Flexibility. Look forward to having you join us. Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Like

  5. dprastka July 19, 2020 / 11:07 am

    So BEAUTIFUL where you live! Love all your photos. And I enjoyed walking virtually with you in your wonderful parks!! Stay cool! 😃❤️

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:26 pm

      Thanks, Diana, for your lovely comment. I do my outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun and drink a lot of water to stay cool 🙂 Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Sagittarius Viking July 19, 2020 / 2:20 pm

    That trail looks like a very nice one. I always enjoy your beach scenes 🙂 Thank you for taking us there.

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:28 pm

      Thank you, Maria, for your kind comment. I love being near the lake and sharing what I see through my camera lens. Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Like

  7. Book Club Mom July 19, 2020 / 3:30 pm

    What a great trail. I’m really enjoying your blog – it really makes me want to get out there and walk different trails and paths 🙂

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:31 pm

      Thank you, Barbara, for your kind comment. I hope you find time to explore different trails and parks. I love sharing some of my favourite places and photos on my blog.

      Liked by 1 person

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:36 pm

      Janis: There are more people out and about here in the summer than in the spring as more places are allowed to re-open and schools are on summer break. I go cycling and walking on weekday and Sunday mornings when there are few people around me (easier to keep social distancing). This Davis trail is beautiful and quiet in the morning. It’s a gem.

      Like

  8. trentpmcd July 19, 2020 / 4:49 pm

    Looks like a great place to hike, bike and just hang out 🙂 Have a great week!

    Like

    • Natalie July 19, 2020 / 6:38 pm

      Yes, it is a gem. I love going to this trail in the morning. Have a great week ahead!

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Jo July 19, 2020 / 8:26 pm

    Lovely scenery again – I adore hydrangeas. I like the reminder of the connection to earth and history – it was something that I took notice of in our time in Cairns last week too. It’s so important that this is enmeshed in our public spaces.

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 8:20 am

      Yes, awareness of our history and land is important.To protect our land for future generations to enjoy. I’m glad to hear you noticed something similar in Cairns, too. Have a wonderful week Jo!

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Retirement Reflections July 19, 2020 / 9:59 pm

    Gorgeous flowers pics and awesome trail. I wish that I could have been walking along beside you — I was definitely there in spirit!

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 8:22 am

      Thank you, Donna, for joining me virtually. I’d definitely take you to Davis trail if you were here. I’ve enjoyed following along your hiking. Have a wonderful week!

      Like

  11. leannelc July 20, 2020 / 1:14 am

    Beautiful flower pictures Natalie – and I love how you find places near the water to hike along. There are certainly some beautiful locations near you to get out and about in – especially with the warm weather you’re having.

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 8:29 am

      Hi Leanne, I’m fortunate to live near one of the five Great Lakes and the Great Trail which goes across Canada. There is literally thousands of kilometers to explore in land and in the lake. I appreciate the open space where I can have fun while practicing safe social distancing during this covid-19 pandemic. Have a wonderful week!

      Like

      • leannelc July 21, 2020 / 11:34 pm

        Now I’m even more envious Natalie – where you live and also the where the Vancouver Island girls live – makes me want to win Lotto and come for a visit! #MLSTL

        Like

        • Natalie July 22, 2020 / 8:52 am

          Leanne, It would be lovely if you could visit Canada. You have several Canadian blogger friends and there is a lot to see and do here.

          Like

  12. Darlene July 20, 2020 / 8:16 am

    What a gorgeous walk! I have visited Toronto a few times and enjoyed it. Wishing you more fabulous days, Natalie. #SeniSal

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 8:32 am

      Darlene, I’m glad you enjoyed your visits to Toronto. It’s a big city that still has many pockets of green space and nature. Lake Ontario is a gem. Thank you for your warm wishes. Wishing you a wonderful week, too!

      Like

  13. Laurie July 20, 2020 / 10:09 am

    Natalie, thank you for taking us on your hike in Trillium Park. There are so many beautiful green spaces around Toronto. And you find most of them! Lake Ontario is so pretty this time of year.

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 12:01 pm

      Laurie, Thank you for joining me on this virtual walk. I’m fortunate to live close to Lake Ontario and in a city with many green parks. Have a wonderful week!

      Like

  14. Dr Sock July 20, 2020 / 1:57 pm

    Natalie, there are so many lovely parks along the waterfront in Toronto. Your flower photos are gorgeous. I’ve been in Toronto during the summer, and I remember how hot and humid it can be. Good idea to walk and cycle in the mornings and evenings.

    Jude

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 4:50 pm

      Jude – Yes, we tend to have hot and humid weather in July and August. The flower blooms have been amazing this spring and summer. I’m glad you liked my photos. I took them with my phone and no editing, just reducing the file size before I post them on my blog.

      Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 4:51 pm

      Thank you, Gary, for your kind comment. Hope all’s well in your world. I’ll stop by soon. Have a great week!

      Like

  15. Ally Bean July 20, 2020 / 3:20 pm

    Beautiful photos of the flowers. I’m into hydrangeas right now, thinking I want a bush or two in our yard so I especially liked that pic. I enjoyed going along on your virtual walk. Looking forward to seeing where *we* go next week.

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 4:53 pm

      Ally – The hydrangea blooms are huge around here. I’m glad you enjoyed this virtual walk. I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you. Good company makes the trip so much more fun 🙂 Have a wonderful week!

      Liked by 1 person

  16. restlessjo July 20, 2020 / 4:17 pm

    Wonderful to have such a trail so close to the city, with all those lovely open views, Natalie. The day lilies are lovely too. Many thanks for sharing. Have a good week! 🙂 🙂

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 4:55 pm

      Thank you, Jo, for your kind comment. I like this trail a lot and it’s never been busy when I’m there. No crowd is a big plus during covid-19 pandemic and social distancing. Have a wonderful week! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  17. Sammie @ The Annoyed Thyroid July 20, 2020 / 9:36 pm

    I loved accompanying you on that virtual walk (from the comfort of my sofa!) Toronto in summer is hard to beat!

    Like

    • Natalie July 20, 2020 / 9:44 pm

      Sammie, I’m glad to share virtual sunshine and heat with you. Summer in Toronto is pretty good.

      Like

  18. Debbie July 21, 2020 / 8:23 am

    Thanks so much for taking me with you on this virtual walk Natalie! Just lovely. #lifethisweek

    Like

  19. Suzanne@PictureRetirement July 21, 2020 / 5:30 pm

    Natalie, this looks like a beautiful, peaceful walk. I enjoyed your photos, especially the view of Toronto and the flowers.

    Like

    • Natalie July 21, 2020 / 6:59 pm

      Suzanne, I’m glad you enjoyed my photos. I like this trail a lot. The lake views are amazing and the park side is lovely with native plants and flowers with soft fragrance. Every time I come here, I inhale deeply to take it all in.

      Like

    • Natalie July 21, 2020 / 7:01 pm

      Thanks, Lydia, for your comment.

      Like

  20. 3sistersabroad July 21, 2020 / 6:13 pm

    What a beautiful place to walk or ride. Those flowers…love Hydrangers (spelt wrong oops) We are still into lockdown…week 2/3 phase 2 ….tomorrow we must wear masks when out shopping walking etc…or we risk a $200 fine. weird as the other states – apart from NSW are doing so well at containing the virus. I have begun wearing my around my neck and if I see anyone while walking my dogs I quickly pull it up. Exercising wearing a mask can be difficult…especially with a lung condition but something I have to do. #SeniSal

    Like

    • Natalie July 21, 2020 / 7:07 pm

      Masks are common and mandatory in many places over here now. I bring one with me whenever I leave home. I usually do my outdoor activities where and when I know few people are around.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. csuhpat1 July 21, 2020 / 8:19 pm

    Such a beautiful place, thanks for taking us on this wonderful walk with you. #MLSTL

    Like

    • Natalie July 21, 2020 / 8:43 pm

      Thank you, Patrick, for joining me on this virtual walk. Have a wonderful week!

      Like

  22. Deborah July 22, 2020 / 5:11 am

    It looks lovely Natalie. Very tranquil and I love that you’ve got the water, the gardens and a little sense of space and remoteness as well. (Yet you can see the city is quite close!)

    Like

    • Natalie July 22, 2020 / 8:59 am

      Deb, This trail is well designed and I like it for all the reasons you mentioned. When I go to the trail in the morning, it’s a calm and beautiful place to be in.

      Like

  23. Min Write of the Middle July 22, 2020 / 9:22 pm

    Thank you for the virtual tour! Love the flowers – they’re so pretty – particularly the hydrangeas which I have a soft spot for! xo

    Like

    • Natalie July 23, 2020 / 7:58 am

      Thank you, Min, for stopping by. The hydrangea big blooms are beautiful. Glad you liked them.

      Like

  24. Karen July 23, 2020 / 12:01 pm

    Enjoyed walking along through your pictures. Love the flowers & water scenes & rocks.

    Like

    • Natalie July 23, 2020 / 1:26 pm

      Thank you, Karen, for your visit and comment. This trail is pretty. I’m glad you enjoyed the virtual walk.

      Like

  25. Sue from Women Living Well After 50 July 23, 2020 / 8:24 pm

    Just magical Natalie! Canada certainly has some beautiful nature within their cities. The flowers are just beautiful and I love the photo with the view back to the Toronto city centre.Thanks for sharing at #MLSTL and enjoy your weekend. xx

    Like

    • Natalie July 23, 2020 / 8:44 pm

      Hi Sue, I’m glad you liked this trail and my photos. Thank you for hosting MLSTL. Have a wonderful week!

      Like

  26. Erica/Erika July 23, 2020 / 11:29 pm

    Hi Natalie, I forgot about the humidity back East, until I read your post. We used to visit family in Toronto years ago in the Summer and the humidity was a real challenge. Your kayaking is sounding like a real treat this time of year. I really enjoy all of your photos. It is amazing to see all of the diverse sites along this trail. I am grateful I had another birthday this past weekend. This time I saw some of my family in the lower mainland with masks in hand and social distancing. Still a treat to see them. 🙂

    Like

    • Natalie July 24, 2020 / 8:02 am

      Happy belated birthday Erica/ Erika! Glad you saw some of your family. Yes, we tend to have high humidity and a few heat waves in the summer here. Kayaking within the Toronto Islands is wonderful plus I can keep social distancing while having fun. The W.G. Davis Trail captures Ontario landscape well. I love being there in the morning when it’s calm, the fragrance from the plants and flowers is light and lovely, and there are more birds than people present 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      • Erica/Erika July 24, 2020 / 7:37 pm

        Thanks, Natalie, you remind me again, on using all of my senses 💕

        Like

  27. Denyse Whelan July 25, 2020 / 7:10 pm

    Thank you for linking up your blog post 20.7.2020. I will be back with my comments this Monday 27.7.2020 when I have more concentration capacity following my major surgery last week. I appreciate your comments always. Denyse.

    Like

    • Natalie July 25, 2020 / 7:47 pm

      Thank you, Denyse, for stopping by after you just had a major surgery. I wish you well. Take care.

      Like

  28. OnceUponaTimeHappilyEverAfter.com July 26, 2020 / 2:32 pm

    I find it so amazing that on this beautiful trail you can turn one direction and see the downtown skyline and turn the other way and see nothing but nature. What a perfect combination of man-made and natural beauty.

    Like

    • Natalie July 26, 2020 / 4:51 pm

      Leslie, Yes, this trail is well-designed. I’m glad I’m home this summer to enjoy it. Thank you for stopping by. Have a wonderful week ahead!

      Like

  29. Frank Hubeny July 27, 2020 / 9:27 am

    Those are great views on the William G. Davis Trail. And good photos of them.

    Like

    • Natalie July 27, 2020 / 12:15 pm

      Thank you, Frank, for your comment. I greatly appreciate it.

      Liked by 1 person

  30. Karen July 29, 2020 / 1:21 pm

    Toronto looks like a beautiful city, thanks for sharing your post for inspiration when travel resumes.

    Like

    • Natalie July 29, 2020 / 1:25 pm

      Thank you, Karen, for your visit and comment. There’s a lot to see and do in Toronto, plus Niagara Falls and the wineries are about two hours away. I hope you visit Toronto when travel resumes. Have a great week!

      Like

      • Karen July 29, 2020 / 2:11 pm

        Thank you for your wish, I do hope we get to visit.

        Like

    • Natalie July 29, 2020 / 6:10 pm

      I couldn’t believe how many varieties of lily there were and the hydrangea blooms are huge over here.

      Like

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