York Regional Forest Walks and Events

York Regional Forest's guided walks and events are designed for various age groups, residents and visitors. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and registration opens one month in advance. While these events usually proceed rain or shine, extreme weather conditions may lead to cancellations. Registered participants will be notified of any event changes through their provided contact information.

SEPTEMBER

National Forest Week Festival

Join us for a memorable day of outdoor fun and celebration at York Region’s National Forest Week Festival! This FREE event is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and explore the beauty of our local Forests.

Join one of our guided hikes and discover the hidden wonders of the Forest. From the towering trees to the often-overlooked Forest floor, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the natural world around you. Along the way, our guides will share fascinating facts about the plants and wildlife that call the Forest home.

Afterward, let your imagination soar with a visit to our face-painting station where you can transform yourself into a woodland creature or get creative with nature-inspired designs. Then treat yourself to a free Beaver Tail, a classic Canadian pastry that’s perfect for refueling.

And that’s just the beginning. The Festival is packed with fun and engaging activities for all ages so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The National Forest Week Festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the vital role forests play in our environment. With a full day of adventure, learning and community, it’s an event you won't want to miss.

Saturday, September 20 (all ages) 
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hollidge Tract
16389 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Carpooling is encouraged to help reduce traffic. Additional parking is available at Eldred King Woodlands, 16232 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville, with shuttle buses running regularly to and from the main event site.

OCTOBER

Focus on Fall

Join us for a guided photography walk through the stunning landscapes of the York Regional Forest this fall! Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this event is designed to help you make the most of your camera settings and techniques. Learn how to capture the vibrant colours and textures of the season while discovering tips on composition, lighting and camera functions to improve your nature walk photos. Our guide will offer hands-on instruction and personalized advice as you explore scenic trails and learn how to frame the perfect shot. Don’t forget to bring your camera, comfortable footwear and a keen eye for nature’s beauty!

Saturday, October 18

Ages 55 and up: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hollidge Tract
16389 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Ages 18 and up: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Eldred King Woodlands
16232 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville

November

Event details coming soon. Check back for updates.

December

Frozen Footprints

Join us, along with Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust, for a winter adventure as we explore the Forest and uncover the hidden signs of wildlife! On this guided walk, you'll learn about the animals that stay active during the colder months and how they survive the winter season. From animal tracks and chewed bark to other subtle signs, our guide will teach you how to spot clues and identify which creatures are still making their mark in the Forest. As we venture through the winter landscape, you’ll discover the fascinating adaptations of winter wildlife – how some animals have evolved to thrive in the cold, while others adapt their behavior to endure harsh conditions. Learn how animals like deer, squirrels, birds and even predators like foxes leave behind traces of their presence, offering a glimpse into their secret lives. Along the way, we'll explore how animals find food, stay warm and navigate through the challenges of winter. You’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the quiet resilience of nature, as you learn to see beyond the snow-covered trees and discover the vibrant life that continues all around us.

Saturday, December 13 (all ages) 

• 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Hollidge Tract
16389 Highway 48, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Can’t make it to one of our events? Check out what our partners have to offer:

• Evergreen
• Forests Canada
• Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA)
• Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests (LEAF)
• Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust
• Oak Ridges Trail Association
• Ontario Streams
• Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)
• Rouge National Urban Park

In 2025, we updated the Discover Your Forest (DYF) program! While many of your local libraries already offered nature backpacks, kits and lending items, we provided participating libraries with forest-related items and activities to enrich their existing collections and support local nature exploration. Check out the list of participating libraries below!

We’re also making nature exploration more widely available with new digital printable resources. This ensures everyone can enjoy the benefits of the DYF program, whether online or in person.

• Bark Quilt: create a colourful quilt by making bark rubbings from different trees
• Leaf It to Memory: enhance your tree identification skills with a memory card game
• Leafo Bingo: a bingo game that challenges you to find leaves with various characteristics
• Nature Exploration: boost your well-being with an activity that engages all your senses
• Sound Map: explore and document the diverse sounds of nature
• True Colours: a fun experiment that reveals the hidden pigments in leaves
• Tree ID Wheel: match leaf characteristics to identify tree species