Thickson’s Woods Celebration & Guided Walk

Please join us on Friday, October 30th, for a special event celebrating the protection of the newly acquired Thickson’s Woods Nature Reserve in Whitby.

Thanks to your extraordinary support and dedicated community stewards, we are proud to expand our nature reserve network with 24.86 acres of vital urban wildlife habitat. Located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, Thickson’s Woods represents the last remaining old-growth white pine forest in the region, a legendary sanctuary built over four decades of grassroots community action.

Ontario Nature staff and community stewards will lead a guided walk to showcase this urban oasis. You’ll learn how this accessible, transit-connected area enhances climate resiliency along Lake Ontario.

Schedule:
11:00 a.m. – Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
11:30 a.m. – Guided Tour of the Woods, Wetland & Meadow
1:00 p.m. – Lunch & Community Celebration

Thickson’s Woods Nature Reserve lies within the Traditional Territory of the Williams Treaties First Nations, specifically under the Johnson-Butler Purchase of 1787/88. Ontario Nature is honored and grateful to share the ongoing responsibility of caring for this special sanctuary in perpetuity.

Directions and Parking 
From Highway 401 in Whitby, Ontario, take Thickson Road south past Wentworth Street to the Waterfront Trail. Park along Thickson Road or in the lot provided. Walk east along the Waterfront Trail to the marked entrance to the woods, south side, or the meadow, north side, to access the web of paths throughout the nature reserve.

Additional Details
- This event will take place rain or shine
- We understand that plans change, please let us know if you can no longer attend so we can offer your spot to others
- A reminder email with additional details will be sent to participants a few days before the event
- Water and light snacks; please bring a reusable water bottle
- A portable washroom will be available on site

If you have questions about the event or accessibility, please contact Kayla at kaylas@ontarionature.org or 1-800-440-2366 ext. 242.

By participating in the event, you agree to abide by the Event Code of Conduct.

The permanent protection of Thickson’s Woods was made possible through the generous support of the Echo Foundation, the Ontario Conservation Accelerator and the Thickson’s Woods Land Trust , alongside many dedicated Ontario Nature members.

Cover Photo:Monarch butterflies roosting, Thickson's Woods Nature Reserve © James Kamstra