In suburban Concord, you’ll have easy access to city and country.
Concord is a suburban district of Vaughn in Ontario’s York region, north of Toronto. Outdoor lovers will appreciate how it’s situated to offer the best of both worlds—close to city amenities and places to stock up on gear and supplies, as well as multiple parks and conservation areas. Hiking, bird watching, kayaking, picnicking, and camping are all just a short drive away.
The Boyd Conservation Area is a true urban oasis. Located within the headwaters of the Don and Humber rivers, the park boasts over 300 acres of natural habitats. This family-friendly spot offers picnic sites, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Leashed pets are welcome.
Home to Ontario’s leading center for sustainable education and events, the Kortright Centre features over 800 acres of forest, meadows, wetlands, and wildlife. Visitors can head out on a guided nature walk, participate in educational programming (like naturalist certifications in the study of reptiles, birds, and insects), and attend special events for children and seniors.
Less than an hour north of Concord, Sibbald Point is a full-service provincial park with ample camping options, hiking, swimming, biking, and an interpretive trail. Pick radio-free campground for a true urban escape in summer, or try skiing or snowshoeing in winter.
The Milne Dam Conservation Park was once home to a mill, a dam, and a thriving business community. Today, it’s a must-visit urban park that is well-regarded for birdwatching. Blue herons, woodpeckers, chickadees, blue jays, and mallards are spotted daily around the many hiking trails and picnic spots.
Expect large crowds around Concord during summertime weekends and special holidays, including Canada Day. The day-use facilities at Sibbald Point Provincial Park are especially crowded during long weekends and summer, so you must book your spot in advance. Concord-area parks and conservation sites offer limited services throughout winter, but many are open for skiers and snowshoers. It’s best to confirm opening hours before you go.