High Park (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is High Park?
What makes it 88% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can jog, cycle, photograph cherry blossoms, browse the free zoo and art installations for hours; transit access is easy, but sparse lighting after dusk means late solo walks need caution.
Positives:
- Free Entry: High Park has no admission fee, so you can explore without spending on tickets.
- Easy Transit Access: Take the 506 or 504 streetcar to High Park Loop for direct park entrances.
Challenges:
- Potential Crowds: Weekend cherry blossom season draws large groups; go early or on weekdays.
- Muddy Trails: Some hiking paths get slippery after rain; wear waterproof shoes.
What is High Park?
- A 400-hectare municipal park in Toronto’s west end preserving mixed deciduous forest, ravine systems and ornamental gardens
- A landscaped urban green space centered on Grenadier Pond and anchored by heritage structures such as the 1837 Colborne Lodge
- A multifunctional park comprising a compact zoo, sports fields, playgrounds and an interconnected network of hiking and cycling trails
What is so special about High Park for solo trip?
- Cycle a marked 7 km loop past ponds and gardens
- Spot wildlife from the Jennington Ravine to the ponds
- Find calm at the Chartres-pattern labyrinth
- Sit quietly in formal Sunken Gardens
- Meet farm and exotic animals at the free display
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: A few hours lets you bike the loop, visit the animal display, and explore key spots at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in High Park
Bike the 7 km Loop:
Cycle along Centre Road, Colborne Lodge Drive and West Road for a scenic tour.
Tip: Rent a bike at nearby Bike Share docks and start early to avoid congestion.
Bird-watching at Grenadier Pond:
Scan the pond and ravine for herons, woodpeckers and songbirds.
Tip: Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify species.
Walk the Labyrinth:
Experience the concrete Chartres-pattern labyrinth north of Grenadier Café.
Tip: Use it for a short walking meditation when the park is quiet.
Relax in Sunken Gardens:
Sit by hedges, ponds and fountains at the base of Hillside Gardens.
Tip: Grab a coffee at Grenadier Café and arrive before noon for softer light.
Explore the Animal Display:
Meet yaks, bison, llamas and peacocks in the small zoo near the playground.
Tip: Check posted feeding times to see animals at their most active.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to High Park
- Start at West Entrance: Arrive via Bloor Street to find quieter paths and available bike docks.
- Plan a 5 km Route: Use the online map to link top spots in a loop and avoid backtracking.
- Pack Light Snacks: Carry water and snacks to skip café lines and stay energized.
Reviews of High Park
megan
High Park was very large and quiet just the way I liked it when I visited on a Thursday afternoon. It provided the solace I needed from living in a house with straight men who are homophobic. You can also spot foxes going about their days. It’s pretty quaint and nice. The restrooms are also clean and accessible.
Shira ib
I visited High Park this summer, and it was an incredible experience. The park is huge it’s actually the largest public park in the city. I spent hours just walking along the many trails, and there were so many picnic spots where I could relax and enjoy the beautiful weather. I was really surprised by how amazing the park is for both walking and biking.
Saurabh Odedra
One of the best places to visit if you are in Toronto, best park if you are a sporting enthusiast. A scenic view of the lake is just outstanding, if you just want to lay down and watch the open sky and feel the summer breeze while living in the city, this is the best get away place for the weekend. A well maintained park for kids. Off leash areas for pets are very interesting too. The zoo has a wi...
Anju Nair
During my time at High Park for the cherry blossom season, I was completely blown away by the beauty! The park was transformed into a breathtaking sea of pink/ white blossoms, creating an incredible atmosphere. There were so many walking paths, making it easy to spend hours exploring the area. I was pleasantly surprised to see few horse rides happening inside the park, which added a unique touch ...
Dru Lu
What a wonderful park that has something to offer for everyone. There’s dog off leash area for the furry lovers. There’s very nice playgrounds, little zoo, and trackless train for the kids. There’s beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring for the flower lovers. There’s of course lots of open space and benches for picnics.
When is the best time to visit High Park (Toronto, Canada)?
Visit in late April before 9 AM to beat the cherry blossom crowds. In mid-October, midday light highlights the red maple leaves. Trails stay open in winter—wear layers and sturdy shoes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| TTC single-ride fare | CAD 3.35 |
| Bike Share (30 min) | CAD 4 |
| Coffee at Grenadier Café | CAD 4 |
| Trackless train ride | CAD 9 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 20.35 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of High Park
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3, Canada
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About High Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 416-338-033810 BEST nearby Activities
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