Bird Watching Toronto

Watermelon friends Riverdale Park hangout

Grab your tea, matcha or coffee and meet us at riverdale park for a chat and new friendships :)

Spring Migration at Cootes Paradise: A Birding Workshop

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26-2)** **Spend the day exploring one of Ontario's most incredible birding destinations on the western cusp of Lake Ontario.** Our birding workshops are built around a simple idea: different locations reveal different birds, different habitats, and different nature experiences Next up is Cootes Paradise in Hamilton: one of Canada's premier birding destinations and a very different landscape from our last outing at Tommy Thompson. If you missed our Toronto workshop, this is a great place to start. If you were there, you already know why it's worth coming back. Cootes Paradise is a sprawling 250-hectare wetlands conservation area at the head of Hamilton Harbour. It is officially recognized as a globally Important Bird Area and one of the most significant bird habitats in southern Ontario. The marsh, surrounding mudflats and adjacent Carolinian forest support an incredible diversity of species, especially during spring migration when waterfowl, waders and songbirds pour through the area in huge numbers. Whether you’re completely new to birding or looking to discover a new local hotspot, this workshop is a perfect starting point. Enjoy a relaxing, guided birdwatching walk through this stunning area with our expert birder, Pedro. Along the way, you’ll learn how to identify local and migratory birds and use binoculars confidently, while gaining a deeper appreciation for the rhythms of the natural world. Take time to slow down, listen, and connect with nature as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem, leaving with new skills, fresh perspective, and a renewed sense of calm. **Please note that binoculars are included in the cost of the adventure.** **Highlights** **Wetland Migration Hotspot –** Cootes Paradise is a designated Important Bird Area and one of the richest marsh habitats on the Great Lakes, drawing thousands of birds during spring migration. **Professional Birder -** Learn from Pedro Hernandez, founder of the popular Instagram account Outdoor Commute **Binoculars Included –** Each participant gets to use a pair of high-quality NOCS binoculars for the day. **Event cost: $65+HST - $30 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26-2)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Hike & Swim the Canadian Shield

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mccrae-lake-hike-swim)** ***Join us for this peaceful, day-long getaway spent exploring the trails, forests and waters of McCrae Lake!*** Our morning begins with a gentle 3.5 km trek through the lush forest. These trails meander through and along the granite ridges that make the Canadian Shield so famous. We’ll eventually arrive at the famous Crow’s Nest Lookout with its amazing panoramic views of the lake and adjacent pine-covered hills. This is where we’ll stop to refuel and enjoy our lunch while soaking in the quiet atmosphere that you can only get when you get out of the city and into nature. After our meal, we’ll make our way down to the water’s edge for a few hours of pure relaxation. You can jump in for a swim in the clear lake water or simply find a smooth rock to lounge on and take in the rays. Once we’ve had our fill, we’ll finish the day by retracing our steps through the forest and heading back into the city. **Highlights** **Pristine Backcountry Swimming -** Escape the crowded city beaches to this amazing and secluded cool off spot. The water is refreshing and clear, providing the perfect reward after our morning hike. **Possible Wildlife Spotting** \- Otters\, bears\, beavers\, eagles and loons are just some of the creatures that call this area home\. You might even have a chance to spot some from a safe distance for a magical encounter\. **Panoramic Forest Views -** Look out from the famed Crow’s Nest panorama where you can see for kilometers across the green canopy and the shimmering blue waters. **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mccrae-lake-hike-swim)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Waterfront Ride to Grand Opening of Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area

Join us on a relaxed waterfront ride of Toronto's west end into the edge of Mississauga to explore [Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area](https://trca.ca/conservation/infrastructure-projects/jim-tovey-lakeview-conservation-area/), the new 26 hectare waterfront park in the Greater Toronto Area that opens on May 30th, "after more than a decade of planning, collaboration and community vision". 9:30am meet on the Humber Bay Arch Bridge 9:45am depart on group ride 10:00-10:10am group gathers at western edge of Colonel Sam Smith Park 10:30am arrival at Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area 10:30-11:15am group and individual exploration of Conservation Area 11:30 return group ride 12:00pm arrival back at Humber Bay Bridge 12:00-1:00pm optional social (food, drinks, ice cream) on Marine Parade Drive Cycling distance: approximtely 25km (10.7km in each direction plus a small distance within Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area) Terrain: paved multi-use trail, residential roads, and hard-packed gravel trail Suitable bikes: city, commuter, hybrid, gravel, MTB, and road with thicker tires Helmet: highly recommended! Bring: a bike in working order, plenty of water, sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks, and good vibes! Event info: https://cvc.ca/conversations/grand-opening-jim-tovey-lakeview-conservation-area/ https://cvc.ca/discover-the-new-jim-tovey-lakeview-conservation-area/ Project info: https://trca.ca/conservation/infrastructure-projects/jim-tovey-lakeview-conservation-area/ News coverage: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/jim-tovey-lakeview-conservation-area-mississauga-9.7191853 https://www.insauga.com/heres-when-huge-new-conservation-area-opens-to-the-public-in-mississauga/

Underwater Rugby Practice and Game

**Welcome to our group! We hope to see you out at the pool soon.** **We have spare gear for you to try the game, so there is no need to buy anything before you try U/W Rugby. Please let us know your shoe size in advance to see can ensure we have fins to fit you. Just bring your swim suit and towel. And your first 2 practices are free!** **We also play Fridays 8:30-10pm at Riverdale Collegiate Institute pool throughout the school year.** \*Please note: This game requires swimming. While we do have lifeguards, you must be a competent swimmer and comfortable in the water in order to participate. **Looking forward to meeting you and seeing you at the pool,** **Gord**

Lion’s Head Lookout Hiking Trip

Photography Meetup - Tommy Thompson Park

Hello everyone, Join us for a relaxed and fun photography meetup at Tommy Thompson Park 📸🌿 With warmer weather finally here, it’s the perfect time to grab your camera, get outside, and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts. We’ll meet at the ***Tommy Thompson Park Pavilion*** at **1:00 PM**, then explore the trails together at an easy pace. Along the way, we’ll stop for photos, take breaks, and enjoy the scenery. This meetup is open to everyone, whether you're a beginner or just love taking photos for fun. **What to bring:** * Camera or smartphone * Comfortable walking shoes * Positive energy and curiosity The plan is to walk toward the end of the park, where the lighthouse is. There is a great view of Toronto’s skyline, perfect for capturing some stunning shots together. For details on directions, park guidelines, and rules, please check: [https://tommythompsonpark.ca/visitor-information/](https://tommythompsonpark.ca/visitor-information/) We hope you can join us for this exciting meetup! **Note:** If the weather doesn’t cooperate (rain, etc.), the meetup may be rescheduled or cancelled. Updates will be shared if anything changes.

Food Safari - Middle East and some more new exiting places!

🌊🌿 SCARBOROUGH BLUFFS HIKE & GUILD PARK GARDENS 🌿🌊

🌊🌿 SCARBOROUGH BLUFFS HIKE & GUILD PARK GARDENS 🌿🌊 Cliffside Views, Hidden Gardens & One of Toronto’s Most Beautiful Walks Some parts of Toronto don’t even feel like Toronto. Join us for a scenic hike through the breathtaking Scarborough Bluffs and the artistic beauty of Guild Park and Gardens — a walk that combines nature, history, lake views, and some surprisingly hidden corners of the city. We’ll begin at Guild Park & Gardens, a unique outdoor space filled with historic architectural fragments, sculptures, gardens, and quiet pathways. Once home to artists, creatives, and cultural figures, the park feels almost dreamlike — part gallery, part ruin, part hidden garden. From there, we’ll make our way toward the Scarborough Bluffs and the waterfront trails below. Stretching roughly 15 km along Lake Ontario, the Bluffs are one of Toronto’s most dramatic natural features — towering cliffs formed over 12,000 years ago through erosion and shifting sediment. And honestly? Some of the lake views feel more like cottage country than the city. This is not a formal historical tour. It’s a social hike with beautiful scenery, fresh air, and good conversation. 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll start by exploring Guild Park & Gardens before making our way along the trails toward the waterfront below the Bluffs. Expect: 🌊 Lake views 🌿 Forested paths 📸 Great photo spots 🚶 A steady but manageable hike We’ll take breaks along the way and enjoy the scenery as a group. \*\*\* 🌧️ Weather & Expectations This event happens rain or shine. Please come prepared for: ✔️ Uneven terrain ✔️ Some hills and longer walking sections ✔️ Real outdoor conditions This is a hike — not just a casual neighbourhood stroll. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: Inside Kennedy Station by Gateway News on the bus platform 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Early is on time. On time is late. 🚌 We will all take the **116 Morningside Bus** together. 🚌 Bus Leaves: 11:12 AM sharp If you miss the bus, you will not be able to catch up with the group. \*\*\* 🚗 Driving Information There is free parking available near Guild Park & Gardens. If you are driving: 📍 Meet us around 11:40 AM near the bus stop area in front of Guild Inn by the road. Please let me know ahead of time if you plan to drive. ⚠️ Drivers will need to walk back to their vehicles after the event. \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to continue organizing events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 What to Bring Water Good hiking/walking shoes A snack Weather-appropriate clothing \*\*\* 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes things happen and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the cliffs. Stay for the conversation. Leave feeling like you escaped the city without ever leaving it. 🌊✨

SUNDAY IN JUNE NATURE WALK and NIGHTLIFE IN PORT CREDIT (Walk, Talk & Flock!)

Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a great **Sunday afternoon in** **Port Credit.** If you have never been; it's a great place to enjoy the sun, the water, the trees, the flowers, grab a coffee, ice cream, go for a leisure walk by the lake and then enjoy a tasty meal. Port Credit is also known for it's live music and dancing too (Event is both indoor and outdoor) I'm going to show us all around Port Credit, play a couple new ice breaker games and then head to a fun restaurant in the main strip of town with a great dinner menu following the walk. \*The walking portion will be roughly 2 hours with some stops along the way; then we will head for dinner and more mingling. This will be a fun day and evening gang! We will meet at **Star Bucks (111 Lake Shore Rd. West) in Port Credit** where you are welcome to grab a beverage or pastry if you like. This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small evening adventure through **Port Credit.** More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **SUNDAY IN JUNE NATURE WALK and NIGHTLIFE IN PORT CREDIT (Walk, Talk & Flock!)** -A great day as we explore some of the best area's of Port Credit near the water, board walk and entertainment strip (lots of live music too) -We can stop and rest at different spots, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning as well to help us get to know one another \*A great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air and enjoy our long weekend together) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at **Star Bucks (111 Lake Shore Rd. West) in Port Credit** where you are welcome to grab a beverage or pastry if you like. \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at 4::00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 4:30) Go Train will take you there by Union Station too :) Plenty of parking in that area too- especially near Front Street and the Library :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Riverdale Park - Outdoor Sports and Chill

Hello hello, Last week the weather had other plans. This week, I am trying. Weather permitting, I'll update if the forecast turns on us again. Here's hoping it doesn't. We're claiming a patch of park like it's ours (it's not) for an afternoon of games, sports, and the kind of low-stakes chaos that happens when you put people in sunlight. Frisbee, volleyball, ball sports, some other games here and there. Meetup Spot: Riverdale park East. https://maps.app.goo.gl/MvZvbJy7C9KNGKP88 (I may update the location depending upon free patch of land for us) **Bring:** Any outdoor games / Sports you would like to play, water (Or beer🍺), snacks, and a blanket to relax after the cardio. I'll bring a frisbee and volleyball. *See you on the hill. ☀️*

Guildwood and Scarborough Bluffs East (8.8 km)

A well-trodden trail with food gems at the end. Guildwood was a former artists' colony and has an idyllic setting close to the Scarborough bluffs. It's a weird mish-mash of attractions and we'll check out every one of them. Then it's down to the lake shore, a popular hiking trail. The eastern approach to the cliffs goes past an iconic sculpture before swinging up an invigorating hill. Guildwood does not have good food. The handful of good restaurants in this hike are at the end, in Scarborough Village. There's an excellent Egyptian restaurant with an ambitious menu, a Haitian supermarket, and a unique dining experience in a retirement residence. A trio of South Asian restaurants await at the end, where you can choose between Sri Lankan, Kerala, and Tamil food. Or try them all. **Highlights** 1. Clark Centre for the Arts (depart 4pm) 2. Guild Inn 3. Greek theatre and scattered statuary 4. South Marine Park 5. Scarborough Bluffs 6. Passage sculpture (depart 5:15pm) 7. Doris McCarthy Trail / Gates Gully 8. Haitians Food Market 9. Aragoz 10. Momiji / Maru Sun Japanese Restaurant 11. Scarborough Village Theatre (depart 6:10pm) 12. Cornell Campbell House 13. Premium Sweets 14. King of Taste / Tharavadu Home Of Kerala Cuisine / Namma Madurai (arrive 6:40pm) **Neighbourhoods** Guildwood > Scarborough Village **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=14edeBtVwC8vnT40YPt8BG7XVXxPd3kU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=14edeBtVwC8vnT40YPt8BG7XVXxPd3kU&usp=sharing) Long, steep uphill at Doris McCarthy Trail. **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.