Don Valley Brick Works Park

Part Two of Two

Leaving the Lower Don Trail behind, I emerged onto Bayview Avenue, where the railway bridge, busy roadway, and historic brick buildings signaled my arrival at Evergreen Brick Works. It felt like a natural stopping point after a morning spent exploring the valley.

By this point, I was tired, getting hungry, and beginning to think about the trip home. I had brought snacks along for the walk, but not enough to count as a proper meal, and the Brick Works would be my route out of the valley and back onto transit. Even so, I couldn't pass by the wetlands without taking a quick look. It turned out to be well worth the extra time. The ponds were covered with lily pads, the boardwalk offered a peaceful place to pause, and the wetlands were alive with activity. What I expected to be a brief stop quickly rewarded me with some memorable sightings and photographs before I made my way home.

One of the reasons I couldn't resist making that final stop was the wetland area. The boardwalk and ponds are always one of my favourite parts of Evergreen Brick Works, offering a chance to slow down and enjoy a different side of the site.

The boardwalk and wetland ponds are always one of my favourite stops at Evergreen Brick Works. While the ponds play an important role in naturally filtering water from Mud Creek before it returns to the Don River, they also provide a peaceful place to pause and enjoy the landscape. Lily pads covered much of the water during this visit, and turtles are often seen basking nearby on warm days. Between the reflections, aquatic plants, and wildlife, it's an easy place to linger a little longer before continuing along the trails.

It didn't take long for the wetlands to reward the visit. Near the reeds, a Great Egret was patiently searching for food while a Red-winged Blackbird repeatedly dive-bombed it from behind. The egret seemed far more interested in fishing than arguing, while the blackbird appeared convinced it was winning some sort of territorial dispute. It was one of those unexpected wildlife moments that made me stop and watch for a while before continuing on.

The egret eventually seemed to decide its luck might be better elsewhere. With a few powerful wingbeats, it lifted off and glided across the pond to continue its search for fish on the opposite shore. Watching such a large bird move so effortlessly across the water was a fitting end to the encounter.

Leaving the ponds behind, I continued along the dirt paths through the wetlands. Looking across the reeds, I could see the regenerating slopes and woodlands that now form an important part of the Brick Works landscape. Areas that were once heavily altered by quarrying have gradually been reclaimed by trees, shrubs, and wetland habitat, creating a surprisingly varied natural environment in the heart of the Don Valley. The late spring greenery only added to the sense of renewal.

The chorus of frogs was impossible to miss, but actually finding one proved more challenging. Eventually, I spotted this individual resting near the water's edge. It seemed content to pose for a few photographs before suddenly launching itself into the pond and disappearing from sight.

As I continued through the wetlands, the Brick Works' distinctive valley chimney stack remained visible above the trees in the distance. Framed by the fresh spring foliage, it provided a reminder of the site's history while the surrounding landscape highlighted its ongoing transformation.

As I made my way back toward the entrance, I paused for one last look across the pond. The former Boiler House stood on the opposite shore, surrounded by wetlands, fresh spring foliage, and reflections dancing across the water. Few places in Toronto showcase the contrast between industrial heritage and natural regeneration quite so effectively.

My time at Evergreen Brick Works may have been brief, but it was a reminder that even a short walk can lead to unexpected discoveries. By the time I left, I had photographed wetlands, wildlife, and spring landscapes, making the stop far more rewarding than I had anticipated when I first crossed Bayview Avenue. It's a place that changes throughout the year, and after this visit, I will definitely be back in the summer to see what new sights and wildlife await.

Part One is here: https://www.agreatcapture.com/blog/lower-don-trail-to-pottery-road