Rouge Beach Improvements Project

First introduced in 2012 and identified in the 2019 Rouge National Urban Park Management Plan, the Rouge Beach Improvements Project is revitalizing one of the most visited and beloved areas in the park. 

This initiative will enhance and further protect the natural and cultural integrity of the area and foster meaningful connections to the Rouge’s beauty and rich history. 

When complete, visitors will be able to embark on an exciting journey with a brand-new trail, forging an in-park link from the shores of Lake Ontario to the renowned Mast Trail. The adventure won't stop there — Parks Canada will be revamping the existing Mast Trailhead and breathing new life into the Beach Day Use Area at the park’s southern tip. 

Get ready to experience the seamless connection of nature, history and beauty at the Rouge!

Rouge Beach Improvements Project features

Revitalization of the Rouge Beach Day Use Area

Through improved infrastructure, Parks Canada will address climate change, flooding, erosion, species at risk, invasive species and ecological restoration — and also provide safe visitor access to the Lake Ontario waterfront and Rouge Marsh area.

Formalized trail and boardwalk connection

The proposed new trail and raised boardwalk will connect Rouge Beach to the rest of the park at large, leading to the Twyn Rivers Day Use Area and, eventually, to the future park visitor centre near the Zoo Road Day Use Area and beyond. The trail will also provide visitors with a respectful, low-impact experience of this ecologically-sensitive area.

Key milestones

• June 2019 - Transfer of 18.5 km² of lands from the TRCA to Rouge National Urban Park
• December 2019 - Completion of Beach and Boardwalk Technical Feasibility Report
• February 2020 - West Rouge community site tours
• May 2021 - Conclusion of the public engagement period, totaling 15 months.
• February 2022 - Release of What We Heard Report and draft Detailed Impact Assessment; beginning of 30-day comment period
• June 2023 - Detailed Impact Assessment finalized and approved
• September 2023 - Invasive species removal conducted at Rouge Marsh for third year
• March 2024 - Decommission of washroom facility at Rouge Beach
• August 2024 - Improvements to accessibility and visitor enjoyment at Rouge Beach Day Use Area