Colonel Sam Smith Park

Colonel Sam Smith Park is a sprawling waterfront park located on Lake Shore Boulevard West in Etobicoke, Toronto. Covering about 60 hectares, the park offers a peaceful escape from the city with its mix of woodlands, wetlands, and open green spaces. The park features a network of walking and cycling trails that wind through diverse habitats, including a butterfly garden and a small beach. It's a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded, including waterfowl, warblers, and raptors. The park also has a fishing pier, a dog off-leash area, and picnic shelters. The highlight is the waterfront promenade with stunning views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline in the distance. The park is well-maintained and less crowded than other Toronto parks, making it ideal for a relaxing afternoon. It's named after Colonel Sam Smith, a British military officer and early settler in the area.

Don't miss

• Walk or cycle along the lakeside trails with skyline views
• Birdwatch at the wetland area and butterfly garden
• Visit the fishing pier and try your luck
• Let your dog run in the off-leash area
• Have a picnic at one of the sheltered tables

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Colonel Sam Smith Park

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is a known hotspot.
• Parking can fill up on weekends; arrive early or use public transit.
• Keep the park clean; dispose of waste in provided bins.
• It can be windy near the lake; dress in layers.

A bit of history

The park is named after Colonel Samuel Smith, a British officer who served in the War of 1812 and later became a local landowner. The land was originally part of his estate and was later acquired by the city for park development in the 1970s.