David A. Balfour Park, Peace River Country Travel Guide

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Escape to nature in midtown Toronto at David A. Balfour Park, a scenic urban oasis with trails, gardens, and historical significance.

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David A. Balfour Park

David A. Balfour Park, located in Toronto's Deer Park neighborhood, offers a serene escape with lush landscapes and winding trails. Named after former city councillor David A. Balfour, the 20.5-hectare park features the Rosehill Reservoir and the Vale of Avoca, providing a refreshing natural retreat in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to David A. Balfour Park

75 Rosehill Ave, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M4T 1G4, CA
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring David A. Balfour Park.

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the winding trails.
Explore the urban art under the bridges for unique photo opportunities.
Bring a picnic basket to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

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Explore David A. Balfour Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near David A. Balfour Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach David A. Balfour Park via public transport, take the TTC subway to St. Clair Station on Line 1 (Yonge-University). From the station, head east on St. Clair Avenue West, then turn right onto Rosehill Avenue. Continue walking until you reach the park at 75 Rosehill Ave. A single fare on the TTC is $3.35 if paying with cash, $3.30 with a Presto card, or $3.25 with a Presto Ticket. Children 12 and under ride for free.
Walking

If you are near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue, David A. Balfour Park is easily accessible by foot. Head west from Yonge Street on St. Clair Avenue West, then turn right onto Rosehill Avenue. The park entrance is located at 75 Rosehill Avenue. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding Deer Park neighborhood before arriving at the park.
Parking

If driving, there is a Green P parking lot on Rosehill Avenue, just east of Yonge Street. Street parking is also available nearby, with typical costs around CAD 2-4 per hour. Be sure to check local signs for parking fees and restrictions.

Discover more about David A. Balfour Park

David A. Balfour Park is a sprawling 20.5-hectare urban park in Toronto's Deer Park neighbourhood, near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue. The park is named after David A. Balfour, a former Toronto city councillor. It encompasses the Rosehill Reservoir and the Vale of Avoca, offering a diverse landscape for recreation and relaxation.Historically, the area was significant to Indigenous peoples, specifically the Mississaugas, who used it as a hunting ground and referred to it as "mishkodae," meaning prairie. During the colonial period, the area was home to estates like Rosehill and Summer Hill. In 1873, the city acquired the Rosehill site for its first major water reservoir, transforming the Vale of Avoca ravine into Reservoir Park.The park features ornamental fountains, reflecting pools, a gated garden retreat, and a children's playground. Trails lead down into the ravine, connecting to the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail. The park's trails offer a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. The Vale of Avoca trail system provides a natural escape with lush greenery and the sounds of Yellow Creek, a tributary of the Don River.Today, David A. Balfour Park is a beloved green space for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.