Things to do in Markham – Milne Dam Conservation Park
The Milne Dam Conservation Park stretches along the Milne Reservoir, just down the road from Markham location. This is considered to be part of the beautifully known Rouge Park, and also has plansin being included in the Rouge Park Trails Network in the near future.
History of Milne Dam Conservation Park
The park was initially named after Alexander and Peter Milne, who operated a local mill that sat near the dam’s structure in the 1820’s By 1845, the Milne’s had expanded their business to include an ashery, wood mill, fuelling, and a general store. In 1911 the Milne’s grandson, Archie, expanded the family business even further and built the very first steel and concrete arc dam throughout all of Canada.
Markham’s town creation sprang to life from the development of the dam and mill. In the 1950’s the property was acquired by the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and transformed into the Milne Park Conservation area.
Wildlife Enthusiasts
The conservation area presents exciting opportunities for bird watchers, whose birds are attracted by the beautiful open spaces, lush green forests, and lower wetlands. The area is frequented by Blue Herons, woodpeckers, chickadees, Blue Jays, and Baltimore Orioles.
The conservation park is Markham’s largest know park, currently sitting at 305 acre or 123 hectare. The Rouge River flows in the center of the park, providing a source of water for the lush surrounding forest on the south and east edges.
Milne Dam Conservation Park is located just south of Highway 7, on McCowan Road on the east side. It is open to visitors seasonally 8 am to dusk beginning on Victoria Day and ending on Thanksgiving Day. The park boasts 2.3 kilometers of attractive trails great for cycling, jogging, and walking, in addition to a beach area.
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