Butterflies: a not-so-well-known sign of spring

Today’s post comes to us from the Discovery staff at Charleston Lake Provincial Park.

Spring is coming!

Some telltale signs of spring include the return of birds that left for the winter, spring wildflowers opening their colourful blooms, and new tree leaves unfurling from buds.

But before that, there’s often an earlier sign of spring: butterflies.

That’s right, butterflies! A sign of spring in Charleston Lake is the sight of some early winged beauties flitting about.

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10 signs of spring at Ontario Parks

Spring has sprung at Ontario Parks!

The sun is out, the birds are chirping, and the days of snow and sleet are (hopefully!) behind us. As the snow melts, enjoy the sensory delights of spring in our provincial parks as we see and hear signs of warm weather to come.

You know it’s spring in Ontario Parks when…

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5 fantastic forests to visit this spring

It’s International Day of Forests!

Ontario Parks protects a collection of breathtakingly beautiful forests from across the province. Each will be brimming with signs of life as the snow melts and temperatures warm.

Let’s take a look at five unique forests you can visit this spring.

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Spring paddling safety

Itching for ice out? We certainly are.

But spring weather can be fickle. Hitting the lake too early, failing to respect weather conditions or paddling beyond your skill level isn’t just risky — it’s downright dangerous.

We chatted with Paul Smith, past park superintendent of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, to get some top do’s and don’ts for spring paddling safety:

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5 Ontario wildflowers to spot this spring

The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and splashes of beautiful colour are beginning to pop up in parks.

Spring wildflowers bloom for only a short amount of time, and we’ve got our sights set on spotting as many as we can!

Here are five beautiful ephemerals you may find on your spring adventures:

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April’s vacancy highlights (roofed accommodation)

Spring temperatures can be tough to predict, which is what makes April a great month to stay in a cabin or yurt!

Whether it rains, snows or shines, you’ll have a cozy home base for your outdoor adventures.

Accommodations featured below were available as of March 12, 2024.

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It’s May — what are Black Bears up to?

Planning a visit and wondering whether you’ll see a Black Bear? Tune in to our monthly Black Bear feature where our ecologists let you know common bear behaviour for the month or season.

Spring is upon us, and Ontario’s Black Bears are ready for another season of eating to gain fat for winter hibernation.

While young bear cubs are sticking close to their moms, yearling bears (bears that are about a year and a half) may be leaving and striking out on their own for the first time in search of food. (Your actions really make a difference for young Black Bears this month!)

Here’s what our bears are up to this month:

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May’s digital download

We’re not the only one “a-moose-d” by this lovely spring weather!

The rainy days of April have given way to May — it’s time to get out to your favourite park and start exploring!

(Don’t forget to treat wildlife with respect. Give them plenty of space and enjoy from a distance.)

Throughout 2023, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your computers, tablets, smartphones, and Facebook covers.

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5 kid-friendly signs of spring

Today’s post comes from MacGregor Point Provincial Park, courtesy of past Discovery Program Leader (now Project Lead) Matt Cunliffe.

Longer days give back extra hours of outdoor play and provide the perfect opportunity to explore our trails with the kids.

So don some comfy clothes and head to your favourite park (bonus: spring involves far less work for getting the young ones ready for a hike!).

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April’s digital download

As another snowy winter fades, it’s time for wild flowers to shine! Take a walk through any provincial park this month and you’ll spot some of the season’s best blooms, from Marsh Marigolds to Trout Lilies!

This month’s FREE digital download features the province’s official flower, the White Trillium. This picture was taken at Silver Lake Provincial Park.

Have you taken pictures of spring flowers on your hike? Share them with us on Instagram by tagging us in your post!

Throughout 2023, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your computers, tablets, smartphones, and Facebook covers.

Continue reading April’s digital download