45 minute walk in Sunnybrook park in Toronto
Sunnybrook Park is one of Toronto’s largest and most beloved green spaces, offering a mix of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical significance. Here’s a breakdown of its features and some answers to your questions:
About Sunnybrook Park
Size and Location: Covering over 150 hectares (around 370 acres), Sunnybrook Park is located in the city’s midtown, near Leslie Street and Eglinton Avenue East. It is part of the larger Don Valley park system.
Why So Big?
The park was once a private estate owned by Joseph Kilgour, a Toronto businessman. He donated the land to the city in 1928 to be used as a public park.
It’s connected to other parks in the Don Valley, like Serena Gundy Park and Wilket Creek Park, which contributes to its vast expanse and natural feel.
The size also reflects its multipurpose design: Sunnybrook includes open fields, wooded trails, a network of walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
Buildings in the Park
Sunnybrook Park has several buildings scattered throughout, many of which are now closed or repurposed. Here’s some context:
Historical Buildings:
Many of the buildings in the park date back to its time as a private estate or early public use. Some have fallen into disrepair or were deemed unsuitable for current uses and are thus closed.
Others have been retained as part of the park's character but lack practical use or funding for operation.
Some of the other buildings may have been used as old lodges, storage spaces, or administrative facilities in the past. Closed buildings are often due to budget limitations, safety concerns, or lack of current functionality.
Sports Fields: The park features expansive sports fields used for soccer, rugby, and cricket.
Trails and Nature: It’s a favorite spot for runners, cyclists, and walkers, with beautiful trails running through wooded areas and alongside Wilket Creek.
Sunnybrook Park has a rich history and a variety of features that aren’t widely known. Here are some lesser-known facts about the park:
1. It Was Once a Lavish Private Estate
Joseph Kilgour's Estate: Sunnybrook Park was originally the private estate of Joseph Kilgour, a wealthy Toronto businessman and president of the Canada Paper Company. The property included gardens, stables, and a grand mansion.
Donation to the City: Kilgour donated the land to the city in 1928, stipulating that it should remain a public park. Some remnants of the original estate, like foundation stones, can still be found in certain areas.
2. A Military Connection
During World War II, part of the land adjoining the park (now the site of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre) was used as a military hospital for Canadian soldiers. The park itself was used for training and recreational activities for soldiers recovering at the hospital.
3. Hidden Trails and Secret Spots
Secluded Trails: Some trails in Sunnybrook lead to quieter areas along Wilket Creek, where you can escape the more crowded parts of the park. These trails are less traveled and feel like hidden oases within the city.
Wilket Creek Tributary: The creek that runs through the park is part of a larger watershed connected to the Don River system, and certain areas are home to unique ecosystems.
4. Sunnybrook Stables' Legacy
Historic Stables: Sunnybrook Stables, located in the park, has been operating for decades and is one of the few equestrian centers in Toronto. Its origins date back to the time when horses were a central feature of the estate.
A Royal Visit: The stables and park reportedly hosted equestrian demonstrations for prominent visitors, including members of the royal family.
5. Native Plant Restoration
Efforts have been made over the years to reintroduce native plant species in parts of the park to help restore the area's original ecosystem. These initiatives also aim to support local wildlife and improve the health of Wilket Creek.
6. It’s a Hotspot for Birdwatchers
Bird Sanctuary: The park is a favorite among birdwatchers for its diverse bird species, including cardinals, blue jays, and even hawks. The wooded areas and creek provide an ideal habitat for these animals.
7. Underground Infrastructure
Beneath the park runs a network of buried infrastructure, including old sewer lines and stormwater management systems connected to the Don River. These were built during Toronto’s early urbanization efforts and are largely hidden from public view.
8. It Has Hosted Unique Events
Over the years, Sunnybrook Park has been the venue for a variety of events, including:
Outdoor Shakespeare Plays: Occasionally, theater troupes have performed in the open fields.
Equestrian Shows: Sunnybrook Stables has hosted competitions and demonstrations.
Filming Location: Parts of the park have been used as a backdrop for movies and TV shows, though this is not widely advertised.