Frozen falls and other wacky winter water

REMINDER: venturing out onto unsafe ice puts your life (and the lives of first responders) at risk. Take in the beauty of winter shorelines from solid ground.

When most of us picture winter ice, we conjure up mental images of skating rinks and icicles. But did you know there’s a lot of variety in wintry water formations?

From frozen falls to ice volcanoes, winter water is quite a sight to behold:

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Where to camp when your fave park is already full

Did you know over 50% of reservations made by the end of March are for our five most popular parks (Bon Echo, Algonquin, Sandbanks, Killbear, Pinery)?

If you can’t get a campsite at one of these parks, we’ve got some suggestions we’re sure you’ll love…

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How to be a winter wildlife detective

Today’s post comes from former Discovery Leader David Bree at Presqu’ile Provincial Park

With the onset of winter, we often think of nature going into a slumber, but while she slows down, there is still lots going on outside.

Winter provides a better opportunity to learn what the animals of our fields and forests are up to than do the warmer seasons.

I am, of course, talking about tracking, tracking in the snow.

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The best day trips (if you live in Toronto)

Living in Toronto can make nature feel a million miles away.

This is especially true in the winter, when the closeness of the buildings, the busy streets, and the slush limit the best that winter has to offer – tranquility, wide-open spaces, and room to play.

In truth, however, the natural world is never too far away. Several provincial parks are open all winter and offer easy day visits for city-dwellers.

We’ve partnered with our road-trip loving friends at Subaru Canada to share some of the top parks near Toronto you need to check out:

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Butterball’s story

Today’s post comes to us from David Bree, former Discovery Program Lead at Presqu’ile Provincial Park.

Butterball was a bit of a miracle child.

The way the year went, it was amazing that his egg was ever laid, let alone hatched. And he never should have flown.

But, somehow, he did.

To truly understand Butterball’s story, and the miracle it was, we must go back eight years. And oh yeah, you should know: Butterball is a Common Tern.

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Perfect parks for your late fall camping trip

Looking to extend your camping season?

Many of our parks are open for overnight stays in October and November. Whether you snuggle up in your tent or get cozy in your RV, make sure you pack extra socks!

Bundle up and book a trip to one of these late fall camping spots:

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Shining a light on the historic Presqu’ile lighthouse

If you’ve visited Presqu’ile Provincial Park, it is almost certain you have spent some time admiring their iconic Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse.

For over 180 years this lighthouse has remained a landmark in times of great change.

Although the Presqu’ile Point Lighthouse has remained a beacon along the north shore of Lake Ontario, it has had its own transformations and changes.

Today we’re highlighting the efforts that have taken place on Presqu’ile’s lighthouse to preserve and maintain this historic and functioning landmark – the second oldest continually operating lighthouse on Lake Ontario!

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The trouble with balloons

Today’s post was originally published in 2016 and comes from David Bree, then our Senior Discovery Leader at Presqu’ile Provincial Park, and passionate protector of Ontario’s shorebirds.

I don’t know Jason. But I do know he turned six sometime in the last two months and he had a wonderful party with cake, presents and balloons, surrounded by friends and family.

I hope he had a good time, but I wonder if he knows the legacy of his sixth birthday — from my perspective — is unsightly litter, extra work and possibly untimely death.

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How to plan your visit to Presqu’ile

Located on Lake Ontario in Brighton, Presqu’ile Provincial Park is one of our most popular parks in Southeastern Ontario, welcoming thousands of visitors every month.

From the long, sandy beach to beautiful hiking trails to world-class bird migrations, Presqu’ile is a favourite for many.

During the hot summer months, the park can get extremely busy. Presqu’ile often hits capacity — especially on weekends — and can’t welcome any more visitors.

This year, you need to book your day use permit in advance to guarantee entry.

We really hate to turn away visitors, especially knowing many have driven several hours to get here.

Planning a day-trip to Presqu’ile? Here’s what you need to know to have a fun and frustration-free visit:

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