Boyd Conservation Area

Boyd Conservation area is usually where I turn around when hiking the trail system in Vaughan, so a few weeks ago I decided to park here and explore the area, prior to hitting one of the trails.
The area is fairly large, with a killer hill when you first arrive (past the main gates). To the left of the main gate is a great picnic area that has a killer view, as it overlooks the Humber River. It is fairly high and the drop is steep, so be careful with kids.
Continuing into the park, you’ll go down a steep hill… it’ll get your heart pumping on the walk back (if you park up top) and provides a nice view of the park system. Once on the lower level, there’s picnic areas that can be rented for private events (family reunions, weddings, etc) and a small bridge over the Humber River to a fairly large parking lot. The trails into the woods start in this area.
Be very careful with kids if you go down to waters edge by the waterfall (it’s not really a waterfall… it’s artificially created rapids caused by the water being routed into tubes (going under the bridge) and spilling out onto a wide concrete slab) There are signs up warning of a strong undertow… and the current does get quite a strong after a rainfall. There’s frogs, tadpoles, small fish, garter snakes, racoons in this area.
In the winter the park closes its main gates, but you can park just outside the hut and walk back in.

I grew up with the humber river behind my house, that was my backyard. From 1968 to 1996, I’ve seen the river go from a clean beautiful river in the 70s to sess pool in the 80s and 90s, but I’m so glad to see the river come back to its glory the last 10 years,

We went for a 2-​hour hike and really enjoyed the view! Lovely to think something like this area is so near Toronto. In every direction you look, miles and miles of trees, streams, squirrels, birds — you can almost fool yourself into thinking you’re in the wilderness. Also far less foot traffic than the parks in Toronto. But there’s a steady stream of bikers and hikers.
You’re supposed to have your dog on a leash but I didn’t see anyone following this rule. There also aren’t any roads nearby so unless you’re worried about your dog running away, it’s safe to let them run free.
One thing that I noticed was A LOT of litter — bottles, dog poop, coffee cups. And I think the reason for the litter is the lack of garbage cans along the trail. They should place a few bins here and there. But even without, PLEASE come prepared with a bag to carry out all your litter.

Great big place, relatively cheap for groups unless you rent a gazebo or shelter.
Clean and very well kept.

It’s a big area, it’s clean and it’s perfect for a picnic.
Unlike other conservation areas I’ve been to, this one also has a pretty big play area for kids.
It’s hard to describe a conservation area, mostly because it’s as good as you make use of it. All I can really say to it is that it’s big and clean, after that, it’s what you make of it.
Enjoy the day.