Sakura Watch April 24, 2021 - High Park Cherry Blossoms are in Peak Bloom with over 95% of blossoms open on the trees throughout the park, and they all look incredible! This was my first visit back to the park since the snowfall, and I was elated to see it had little effect in the full bloom. The fact the snow and left as quickly as it came left little impact. Add to that the return of some beautifully warm weather, and the stage is set for all to witness the wonderful annual performance!

Watch for my latest YouTube update for some video and read on for details on each section of High Park.

Sports fields

Starting in the sports fields, we see over 95% of the blossoms are now open. We're first greeted by the proud pair of tall cherry trees, showing off their fully blossoming crowns. We come across the other cherry trees following along the fence line that adds some beautiful backdrops for selfies and photos. There are more than a few opportunities to get some nice shots and see the blossoms up close, as shown in these photos:

Along West Road

As you make your way down toward West Road, a few smaller trees and one large tree can easily be spotted for an up-close look. Just please be careful not to shake them or damage the vegetation that surrounds them.

Further down and closer to Cherry Hill, more giant trees flank either side of the road - one atop a hill and the other in the ravine on the opposite side. These spots are always popular among wedding photographers and blossom enthusiasts every year and provide breathtaking backdrops with low-lying branches. It's pretty easy to get beautiful macro and close-up photos in these areas - just please be careful to stay on the path and not damage the surrounding vegetation around the trees.

These photos capture the pure magic and beauty of these up and close encounters:

Cherry Hill

A few steps away is ever famous Cherry Hill, which is currently over 97% in bloom! The most extensive groves of trees are found along Cherry Lane but do note the entire area is fenced off from the top of the hill down to Grenadier Pond. However, some have discovered that you can follow the paths along the fence line for various views of the trees that line Cherry Lane.

Though not recommended to travel, the ground is very uneven and potentially damaging to the plant life in the area. 

Also, keep in mind there is no access to the docks, the maple leaf garden or Grenadier Pond, as all of this is fenced off during the peak bloom. Here are some photos of the blooming trees in this area.

Grenadier Pond (from Colborne Lodge Drive)

If you're up for the walk, travel along Colborne Lodge Dr to get to another grove of trees lined along the steep hill towards Grenadier Pond. These trees are over 95% in bloom, and the steep incline of the path can double as a workout and be quite challenging for some. This path also is the only access to the southern side of the pond by the Queensway and Lakeshore. Here are some photos shot in this area.

Here are some photos captured by Grenadier Pond:

Jamie Bell Adventure Playground

The final destination would be to walk on over to the small collection of blooming cherry trees between the High Park Zoo and the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground. The trees in this area are slower to open, so they are currently only about 80% in bloom. Always the last to bloom in the park, expect these trees to open up fully in the days ahead.

This year, visitors can walk the paved pathway between the trees or even enjoy the view from the Adventure Playground and duck pond across the road. The High Park Zoo is closed as part of the lockdown, so remember any visits are only for passing through for the time being.

Here are some photos captured today from near the Adventure Playground:

Peak Bloom Continues with Warm Weather

Of course, with the weather back in our favour, it's always a great time to walk, run or bike through the park. Having the peak bloom all around us is only a bonus while getting out for some fresh air and exercise.

As of April 24, 2021, High Park is well into the Peak Bloom, with over 95% of blossoms open on average. Depending on the weather, the bloom should continue through to the 28th. Strong winds and heavy rains are always threats to shorten the blooming period.

Keep Park Visits Safe and Clean

Anytime you visit the park, it's essential to be safe and remember to follow these health guidelines. Social distance from others by keeping at least 2 meters or 6 feet apart, avoid public crowds or engaging in large gatherings, and if ever in doubt, protect yourself and others by wearing a mask that adequately covers your nose, mouth and chin.

And also, please respect the park and others when you are out. Dispose of your mask and other items in trash bins, or take them home instead of tossing them on the ground. This helps keep our parks clean and safe.

For more COVID-19 information

Every day we're seeing just how highly contagious this virus is and how it can infect both young and old alike. Even if you don't have the symptoms, you may still be carrying it and spreading it to your family and friends. Your best and only right option is to listen to the advice from our medical professionals.

City of Toronto - https://www.toronto.ca/COVID-19/

Health Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html

Remember to follow the advice from the health experts. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, stay home (if you can), and if you absolutely need to go out in public, practice Social Distancing by keeping at least 2 meters or 6 feet apart from others.

Thank you all for visiting the site. Be careful, be safe, and watch for more updates soon.