Sunday, October 8, 2017

Toronto Islands & The Waterfront Biking Trail



I had the chance to go on an outstanding day trip to visit downtown Toronto. A rare occurrence for me now. As driving a car in the "Greater Toronto Area". Can be a very unpleasant experience. Long time friend of mine Harold. Who use to work in downtown Toronto. Was the perfect guide driving into and out of downtown Toronto. I was the prefect guide for cycling on the picturesque and beautiful Toronto Islands.

Harold and I parked near Sunnyside Beach. Then we departed our parked vehicle. Peddling towards downtown on the "Waterfront Biking Trail". The weather at this point was very overcast and cool. By the time we finally reached the Toronto Islands Ferry Docks. I couldn't wait to leave behind the overcrowding and concrete skyline of Toronto. For the peace, serenity and beauty of the Toronto Islands.

After we arrived at Center Island. We rode our bikes to the southern most point of Center Island.  Then it was a very leisurely ride to reach the island residential community of "Ward's Island". It is just like living in cottage country. When you are enjoying island life, living on the Toronto Islands.

This is really a great time to go cycling on the Toronto Islands. The "Centerville Amusement Park " is closed. Also during the weekdays. The amount of day trippers is very low. Plus you are allowed to bring your own bikes over to the islands, on the ferry boats. Avoiding the unnecessary cost of renting bikes.

After enjoying the relaxing atmosphere on Ward's Island. Harold and I peddled along the boardwalk until we reached the path and then the bridge that took us over to visit the residential community of Algonquin Island. Beautiful homes looking straight towards the skyline of downtown Toronto. Along with the same peaceful and very green environment can be found living on AlgonquinIsland.

Then it was time to move to the western part of the Toronto Islands. Which is Hanlon's Point. Where the Toronto Island Airport is located. We enjoyed some peaceful and relaxing time hanging out on Hanlon's Point. Until we finally made the decision to return back to the Center Island Docks. To return to the hustle and bustle and very fast pace of the normal and real world of today.

On our return to the mainland. Harold and I enjoyed riding back to where Harold's vehicle was parked at Sunnyside Beach. During this part of the trip. We enjoyed a more scenic ride as we passed through what remains of "Ontario Place" Theme Park. Which has been closed since 2012. The only parts of Ontario place this is currently being used is the; marina, the Budweiser Stage and the historic Cinesphere. This early Imax theater has gladly survived the demise of Ontario Place.

It was great being reacquainted with the Toronto Islands. A beautiful part of Toronto that remains unchanged. Since my earliest fond memories dating back to the 1960's. It is and always be fun. To created new and happy great memories!
The contrast between "Green and Concrete"



The Concrete of downtown Toronto.



The beautiful Green of the Toronto Islands.
Ward's Island Boardwalk
The Gibraltar Point Lighthouse- built in 1808 is the oldest existing Lighthouse on the Great Lakes.
Hanlon's Point Ferry
1971 Cinesphere Imax Theater 
On the way home!

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