Kayleigh Pike is a fourth-year student in Creative Industries at Ryerson University. Her alternative map is an immersive journey through Toronto's Glen Stewart Ravine in the Upper Beaches. Combining imaginative storytelling with the humble nature trail, this project seeks to engage walkers of all ages in a deeper relationship with the ecology of the ravine.
The Enchanted Map of the Glen Stewart Ravine was conceived as a daycare activity for children. The map below, and the accompanying nature trail directions, grew from Kayleigh's experiences bringing these children into the ravine for group excursions. Stories of secret pathways and fairy houses were shared with the children, and evolved to inform the project in its final form.
Little Fairies balancing on the Low Logs beside to the Fairy Tree.
NATURE TRAIL: THE GLEN STEWART RAVINE
Welcome to the Glen Stewart Ravine, a secret oasis hidden in the heart of the Upper Beaches. Providing charming hikes for the imaginative mind, there has been legend of fairy magic along the more secluded paths. It is up to you to explore and find out for yourself where the fairies hide! The upper part of the Ravine can be accessed most easily from three main entrances off of Kingston Rd, Beech Ave, and Balsam Ave. A hidden set of rocky steps also lead up to scenic Glen Manor Drive on the west side of the valley. For an accessible entrance without stairs, the ravine can be accessed from the south via Glen Manor Dr. E, where a single raised walkway overlooks the babbling creek (not pictured).
Steep Inclines
Due to the nature of the valley, many of the connecting paths have steep inclines as marked. While certainly explorable, these areas may be difficult to access for less experienced hikers.
Fallen Logs
As the forest holds many aging trees, fallen logs are a common occurrence in the ravine. Walking across these logs can be a great test of balance and a lot of fun! Some of my favorites are marked, but there are certainly more out there to be discovered.
Forts
The forts scattered throughout the ravine bring a sense of community to the paths. Although Mother Nature and unpleasant weather may occasionally cause them to fall, they are often rebuilt quickly, and adding to them yourself can certainly be a satisfying task! Currently the largest and most impressive fort stands at Logger’s Point on the west side of the creek, and the Grand Fort stands atop a hill between the two southeast valleys.
Fairies
Fairy magic has been spotted in several places around the ravine, as marked by a sparkle on the map. Fairies and pixies often live in holes and entrances close to the base of trees, and it is told that they can be quite generous if treated kindly. If you have a young explorer with you, collecting some gifts for the fairies is a great activity. It has been said that they appreciate acorns, flowers, and many other small natural treasures. Notes for the fairies can be written on scrolls of paper, but plastic goods will only pollute the fairies’ home and should not be left in the woods.
The Curious Woods
On the northwest side of the ravine lies the Curious Woods, where trails are fewer and further between, and may require some bushwhacking skills to access. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, many scenic views can be found here, as well as some enticing fallen logs to cross. Let your curiosity lead you off the familiar path, and potentially to a new favourite spot!
Update for visitors
As the winds blow a little bit colder, a lot of things have changed and I've noticed that quite a few trees have fallen. I'm sad to note that the Spider Tree and Grand Fort are almost entirely blocked off now. Hopefully, some members of the community will help to put things back to normal!