Guided walks connect community to Rouge National Urban Park

Visitors to Rouge National Urban Park are connecting with nature in new ways, thanks to Parks Canada staff and a dedicated team of volunteers who lead guided walks and community programs.

Mandy Huynh, Partnering and Engagement Officer for Parks Canada, began her park journey in 2018, introducing visitors to its trails and helping with external relations. After completing her Master of Science in physical geography, she moved into her current role, where she oversees volunteer recruitment, training and scheduling for programs such as guided walks, stewardship initiatives and environmental monitoring.

She explains that “Each guide brings a different area of expertise to the guided walks. Some know a lot about bumblebees, others about agriculture, wildlife, trees, and flowers.” Huynh describes the park as the “backyard of the city” and an “ecological corridor,” noting that many residents are still unaware of its accessibility. Trails, including the Northeast, Harvest, Central and South Central routes, range from seven to 10 kilometres, are “family-friendly,” and open year-round. She adds, “The trails are not maintained in the winter, which is perfect for snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing.”

Guided walks take place every weekend and on select weekdays, offering residents an opportunity to explore the park while learning from experienced volunteers.

CK, a volunteer walk leader for eight years in the Markham and Scarborough areas, says he was motivated to encourage people—especially seniors—to stay active. “I like walking for fitness, by which I mean mental and physical health. The walks are perfect for meeting new people, meditation, and management of stress,” he says. Reflecting on the park, he adds, “There are so many trails in the Rouge. I like the early summer. Since the trails around Black Walnut are on even, open ground, there is a lot of sunshine.”

Fellow volunteer Markus Grupp also brings years of experience, balancing his role as a tech professional with guiding hikes. “I am a tech by day,” he says, “being a guide is a break for me.” Grupp says his long-standing connection to the park inspired him to volunteer. “I love the Rouge Park. I have been visiting it for years and took my kids to the Mast Trail,” he says, adding, “I didn’t realize how close the Park was to the city. Nature and agricultural land are just a few minutes from the city.”

The Black Walnut Day Use Area, one of the walk locations, also carries historical significance. It was once home to the “Mongolia General Store and Post Office,” which operated from 1854 to 1920 before being destroyed by fire.

Residents interested in volunteering or joining a guided walk can find more information at parks.canada.ca.

Photo: Mandy Huynh, Partnering and Engagement Officer for Parks Canada, began her journey as a volunteer in 2018, introducing park visitors to its trails and helping with external relations. (supplied photo)

*Story submitted by Andrew Fuyarchuk.