Scarborough is a beautiful part of Toronto, Ontario that is often underestimated and underrated. While the city is known for its stunning architecture and urban setting, it’s also home to one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Ontario: the Scarborough Bluffs. If you’re someone who likes to explore and take in the breathtaking scenery, the Scarborough Bluffs should definitely be on your bucket list.
Location and History of Scarborough Bluffs
The Scarborough Bluffs are a geological formation situated along the eastern coast of Lake Ontario, stretching roughly 15 kilometers from the eastern edge of Toronto towards Pickering. These towering cliffs reach heights of up to 90 meters and were formed millions of years ago as a result of erosion and sedimentation. The Bluffs are made up of sand, clay, and silt, creating a unique layered effect on the cliffs.
11 Natural Parks and Green Spaces
The Scarborough Bluffs can be seen from 11 parks along the Lake Ontario waterfront, each with trails and lookout points for visitors to take in the scenery. These parks include Bluffer’s Park, Cathedral Bluffs Park, and East Point Park, just to name a few.
The main park, Bluffer’s Park, is also the only park that has a swimming beach in the Scarborough Bluffs area. With its crystal clear waters and soft sandy shores, Bluffer’s Park Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, picnics, and soaking up the sun.
For those looking to get to the top of the Scarborough Bluffs, there is a clifftop lookout at Scarboro Crescent Park.
Scarborough Bluffs Parks with Parking Lots
Bluffer’s Park
1 Brimley Rd. S. Scarborough, ON
Cudia Park
70 Meadowcliffe Dr. Scarborough, ON
East Point Park
101 Copperfield Rd. Scarborough, ON
Rosetta McClain Gardens
5 Glen Everest Rd. Scarborough, ON
Scarborough Bluffs Parks with Street Parking Only
Cathedral Bluffs Park
24 Lyme Regis Cres. Scarborough, ON
Grey Abbey Park
180 Greyabbey Tr. Scarborough, ON
Guild Park and Gardens
201 Guildwood Pky. Scarborough, ON
Scarboro Crescent Park
61 Undercliff Dr. Scarborough, ON
Scaborough Heights Park
27 Fishleigh Dr. Scarborough, ON
South Marine Drive Park
5 Rogate Pl. Scarborough, ON
Sylvan Park
55 Sylvan Ave. Scarborough, ON
What to do at the Scarborough Bluffs
The Scarborough Bluffs offer a variety of recreational activities and attractions. People come here to hike, go to the beach, have picnics, and even get married!
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the bluffs is by taking a hike. The trails along the bluffs offer stunning views of Lake Ontario and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, exploring the beach and shoreline below gives you a unique perspective of the bluffs and a chance to discover more about the local flora and fauna.
When exploring the Scarborough Bluffs, remember to stay on trails and keep away from cliff edges, as they may be unstable.
Bluffers Park Marina
For those who enjoy water activities, Bluffers Park Marina is the perfect spot to launch your boat or rent one for the day. With a capacity of over 400 boat slips, it’s one of Toronto’s largest marinas and offers stunning views of the bluffs from the water.
It’s Toronto’s only full-service marina, and there’s free parking, two restaurants, and a snack bar too. Plus, it’s only 20 minutes away from downtown Toronto.
Bluffers Restaurant
After a day of exploring, you may be hungry and in need of some refreshments. Luckily, the Scarborough Bluffs offer delicious dining options as well. Bluffers Restaurant is located at Bluffer’s Park Marina and offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario while you dine on their menu of seafood, burgers, and other tasty dishes. It’s open daily from 12 pm to 9 pm, except for Mondays when it is closed.
Scarborough Bluffs FAQs
Can you swim at Scarborough Bluffs?
Yes, you can swim at certain beaches within the Scarborough Bluffs area, such as Bluffer’s Beach and Rouge Beach. However, it is important to note that the water may not be suitable for swimming at all times due to changing weather conditions.
Can you BBQ at Scarborough Bluffs?
Yes, you can barbecue at designated areas within several parks in the Scarborough Bluffs, including Bluffer’s Park and Cathedral Bluffs Park. Bluffer’s Park has several public barbecue pits at its picnic areas.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are allowed at most parks within the Scarborough Bluffs area but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after. Dogs are not allowed at Rosetta McClain Gardens, excluding service animals. Bluffer’s Park Beach may restrict dogs.
How do you get to the top of Scarborough Bluffs?
The clifftop lookout point is at Scarboro Crescent Park, located at 61 Undercliff Dr, Scarborough. From here, visitors can take in the panoramic views of the bluffs and Lake Ontario. This is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of the landscape.
