The Don Valley, Toronto

The Don Valley, Toronto is a small valley located in central Toronto running from the Prince Edward Viaduct to Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto, it also has a small river, the Don River runs down the middle ranging from one to two feet in depth in most parts. The ravine runs under a few bridges most notably the St. Clair bridge, as well as housing many different types of plants and animals it is also used for recreational purposes.

Recreation

The Don Valley is home to some of Toronto's finest bike trails, spanning dozens of miles of both paved and dirt variety, which vary from relaxing to a more challenging ride. If you know where to look you might even find a bike a jump or two. As well there are many jogging trails built for those of all skill levels. Besides that there are also other "sports" played in the ravine. If you jog near or after dark it is not unlikely to come across a view rebellious teens having a "party" around a fire. In fact in the spring of 2007 there have been a series of vicious fires taking place in the ravine with one group of kids claiming responsibility, be careful of them, although with their marshmallows they may seem harmless they should be considered dangerous.

Vegetation

There are many types of trees and flowers in the Don Valley, ranging from the oak to the dandelion. Although most of the valley is covered in growths of weedy shrubs it is not uncommon to see a few interesting flowers along the trails. as well there are many interesting varieties of moss, some grow exclusively to this small region of southern Ontario. Although over the last few years the growth of evergreen trees has suffered the area is still classified as coniferous forest land.

Wild Life

It is not uncommon to see a wild animal in the ravine, the most common being the squirrel and the white tailed rabbit. In select locations there are also beavers. As well as mammals there are over 30 different types of birds in the valley ranging from the woodpecker to the cardinal. Although the river may seem like a breeding ground for fish upon closer inspection it is clear that it is far too polluted and houses no fish, although in select ponds in the conservation areas there are small fish and soft shelled turtles.

External links

* [http://www.citynoise.org/article/6580/in/toronto@on CityNoise]
* [http://www.dgp.utoronto.ca/~jtalbot/maps/easyTrailBikeMount1.html Map]
* [http://fitness.meetup.com/19/photos/ Hiking Trails]