In the next month or so I’ll be introducing you to my latest project – a website called “Where To Propose.” Last year Mike and I took a couple thousand photos of unique locations around Hamilton, Ontario to pop the question. We couldn’t wait for the Toronto or Brampton locations so we jumped the gun and visited two outdoor skating trails that we thought might be good locations to propose. And, we weren’t disappointed! Each is different in what it has to offer and each has its own unique atmosphere. They were both delightful! So I hope you enjoy these photos of the Colonel Sam Smith skating trail in west Toronto (Etobicoke) and the Gage Park skating trail in Brampton.
And . . . both locations would be great for outdoor winter engagement or wedding photos!
I love this artist rendition of the skating trail at Colonel Sam Smith Park. Photo source ~ Toronto Councillor Mark Grimes (markgrimes.ca)
The Colonel Sam Smith skating trail is located in Toronto’s west end in Colonel Sam Smith Park at the bottom of Kipling Ave. It’s a quick drive through the Humber College Campus (the former Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital property complete with restored late 19th century buildings) to reach it and parking is free on weekends. The building in the background is the century old steam house that has been converted into a skate changing area and washrooms. The trail is chilled so don’t worry about the outdoor temperature!
Skating trail at Colonel Sam Smith Park with steam house in background. This is a new park with a combination of newly planted and mature trees. Photo source ~ ccfew.org
On a holiday weekend there are lots of skaters on the ice. Photos ~ Jordin Jaunzarins/Mike Heinhold.
There are some nice walking trails adjacent to the skating area plus trails through the marsh and down to Lake Ontario. Photos ~ Jordin Jaunzarins and Mike Heinhold
After a scenic drive through Toronto’s High Park we headed to old Brampton and Gage Park located adjacent to City Hall (Main St. S. and Wellington St. W.). We arrived shortly before dusk and the park was beautifully decorated and lit with lights.
Gage Park skating trail in Brampton at dusk. Photos ~ Mike Heinhold/Jordin Jaunzarins
Compared to the newness of the Colonel Sam Smith skating trail in Toronto, Gage Park is full of 19th century atmosphere and delight. Nestled in old Brampton in an established turn of the century neighbourhood, it is surrounded by wonderful architecture and mature trees.
The park and rink were busy yet there was a real sense of community with the concession stand, fire pit, skate rental area and a lady selling roses. We saw two couples having their engagement photos done at the park. What a great idea!
There’s a real sense of community at the skating trail in Brampton with the concession stand, fire pit and rose lady! Photos ~ Mike Heinhold/Jordin Jaunzarins
By the time we left night had fallen and Gage Park and Brampton City Hall were full of coloured lights and people having a fun time. You too can have a great time at both these chilled skating trails!
Gage Park Brampton includes lighted trees, a decorated gazebo and arched skating trail. Photo source ~ Jordin Jaunzarins/Mike Heinhold
All the best! Jordin
