Rouge National Urban Park, Twyn Rivers Day Use Area

Rouge National Urban Park, Twyn Rivers area is a unique pocket of wilderness seamlessly integrated into the metropolitan landscape of Toronto. As part of Canada's first national urban park, the Twyn Rivers zone is a revitalized day-use space where modern infrastructure meets untouched forests and the rushing waters of Little Rouge Creek.

One of the main features of Twyn Rivers is its focus on ecological sustainability. Here you will find an innovative "bioswale garden" that naturally filters toxins from water before it enters the creek, while solar lanterns provide soft lighting in the evening hours. The area is designed to be as accessible as possible for all guests, from expanded parking to barrier-free paths and observation platforms.

This location is significant not only for its nature but also for its historical heritage. While walking through the area, you can spot fragments of the foundations of the old Rouge Valley Inn, which was once a center of attraction for local residents. Today, the park offers a harmonious blend of active recreation, educational elements, and quiet nature contemplation in the heart of Scarborough.

To confirm trip details or get up-to-date information on trail conditions, you can use the official communication channels of the park administration.

Below are the main contact details:

In the Twyn Rivers area, everyone will find something to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the updated trail network: from here, you can easily access the famous Mast Trail, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, or head towards the Orchard Trail. Two new pedestrian bridges over Little Rouge Creek allow for safe crossings and a chance to watch the water flow from above.

For family outings, there is a spacious green zone with gardens and specialized furniture, perfectly suited for open-air picnics. Both children and adults can study the local flora and fauna: many native species of trees and shrubs have been planted in the park, creating an ideal habitat for birds and small animals. Don't forget to stop by the Celebration Forest, which is accessible via a safe pedestrian crossing.

History buffs and photography lovers will enjoy searching for preserved artifacts from the past. It is fascinating to see how the old stone foundations of the Rouge Valley Inn and elements of the dam have become part of the modern landscape design. The accessible observation platforms provide excellent vantage points for capturing stunning shots at any time of year, especially in autumn when the forest is painted in brilliant gold and crimson tones.

The most convenient way to reach the Twyn Rivers area at 55 Twyn Rivers Dr is by private car. There is a spacious parking lot with 83 spaces and a well-thought-out entry and exit system to minimize congestion during peak hours. Twyn Rivers Drive itself is scenic and leads directly to the recreation area, immersing you in the forest atmosphere even before you arrive.

If you prefer public transportation, use TTC buses heading into the Scarborough area. The nearest stops are approximately 1.5–2 kilometers from the park entrance, so be prepared for a short walk or take a taxi from the nearest subway station or bus hub. A taxi ride from the city center takes about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

For those who prefer active travel, there are pedestrian and bicycle connections. A controlled road crossing provides safe access to trails from the neighboring Celebration Forest. Keep in mind that during the winter period or after heavy rains, some road sections may be restricted due to the proximity of the creek.

The history of the Twyn Rivers area is deeply intertwined with the region's industrial and recreational past. Twyn Rivers Drive itself has existed for over a century, appearing on maps as early as 1916. In those days, it served as an important route for transporting horses to the mills located in the valley. One such mill was Maxwell’s Mill, built in the 19th century, which stood until a fire in 1970.

In the early 20th century, this spot was a hub of social life thanks to the famous Rouge Valley Inn. In the 1920s and 30s, families from Scarborough and other parts of the city came here to dine at the restaurant and swim in what was then called "the largest swimming pool in Ontario." Today, only the underground foundations and part of a dam remain of the hotel's former glory, carefully preserved and integrated into the modern design of the park by the creek.

Rouge National Urban Park was officially established in 2015, becoming the first of its kind in the country. However, efforts to protect these lands began long before that, especially after the devastating Hurricane Hazel in 1954, when it became clear how vital it is to preserve natural floodplains. Archaeological finds indicate that humans have inhabited these areas for over 10,000 years—from Paleolithic hunters to the Indigenous Iroquois peoples.

To leisurely enjoy the park's atmosphere and explore its main trails, most visitors need between 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to walk across the bridges over Little Rouge Creek, take photos at the observation decks, and have a small picnic in the designated area.

If you plan on more serious hiking by connecting to adjacent routes like the Mast Trail or Vista Trail, you should set aside half a day. The Twyn Rivers area serves as an excellent starting point for longer walks. However, if your goal is just a short stop to breathe some fresh air and view the historical foundations, one hour will be quite sufficient.

The Twyn Rivers day-use area is open to visitors daily. Official operating hours are set from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM throughout the week, including weekends and holidays.

Despite the presence of solar lanterns in the recreation area, it is recommended to plan the end of your forest trail walks before dark for safety reasons. Please note that depending on the season and weather conditions (for example, during spring floods), access to some sections near the creek may be temporarily restricted.

When planning a visit to the Twyn Rivers area, it's worth noting other interesting locations in the vicinity. Since the park is located in the eastern part of the metropolis, it's a great opportunity to combine outdoor recreation with a visit to entertainment centers or other protected areas in the region.

Below is a list of attractions accessible from the park: