{"id":5398,"date":"2021-12-11T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-11T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/?p=5398"},"modified":"2024-03-26T21:32:41","modified_gmt":"2024-03-27T01:32:41","slug":"riverdale-park-east","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/riverdale-park-east\/","title":{"rendered":"Riverdale Park East Dog Park &#8211; East Toronto&#8217;s Dog Bowl with a City Skyline View"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Do you love Trinity Bellwoods\u2019 \u201cDog Bowl\u201d but it\u2019s too far of a trek since you live east of Don Valley Parkway? Then you should definitely consider Riverdale East Dog Park another leash-free valley where plenty of dogs come to socialize and play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for more dog-friendly related content? You might enjoy these posts too:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"mrelated\"><li><strong>Dog Park Reviews<\/strong><ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/dog-park-review\/\">Check out all the dog park reviews we\u2019ve visited and reviewed with Limone!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>Dog-Friendly Day Trips near Toronto<\/strong><ul><li>Visit a winery:<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/hounds-of-erie-winery-the-most-dog-friendly-winery-in-the-norfolk-county\/\">Hounds of Erie Winery in the Norfolk County<\/a><\/li><li>Transport yourself to a cozy European village: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/burlington-village-square-the-smaller-younger-cousin-to-torontos-distillery-district\/\">Burlington Village Square<\/a><\/li><li>Go hiking with beautiful meadows: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/is-mccormack-trail-the-prettiest-hiking-trail-in-hamilton\/\">McCormack Trail<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Maria and Limone from SYDE Road heading down the slope at Riverdale Park East toward the Off-Leash Play Area\" class=\"wp-image-5407\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1367-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"riverdale-park-east-dog-park-overview\">Riverdale Park East Dog Park Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick summary of the park before we dive into the detailed review:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hours of Operation: 5:30 AM &#8211; 12:00 AM daily<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Parking: Street Parking<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Address: <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/oXZuV3syP94Dwt657\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">550 Broadview Ave<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plan for: At least <strong>20 &#8211; 30 minutes<\/strong> in the off-leash area &#8211; maybe more if you come for a picnic, trail walk, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Latest Riverdale Park East Activity and Dog Play Dates: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/450896514950086\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Riverdale Dog Park Facebook Group&nbsp;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#faf8f9\"><em><strong>Did you know?<\/strong> Riverdale Park East used to be just a grassy slope? Thanks to volunteers and the City of Toronto, the space has developed into a mature maple-ash woodlot with a small marsh at the bottom of the hill to collect and clean storm water and provide a natural habitat for native plants and animals.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Features You&#8217;ll Love:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>An<strong> active, friendly, and supportive network of dog lovers<\/strong> and dogs ready to connect, arrange playdates, and provide regular updates on park safety<\/li><li>1 KM recreational trail walk (on-leash) with bridge views of The Danforth connecting to Don Valley<\/li><li>Great all-season views and general activities for lingering (picnics, toboggan, swimming, skating,etc.)<\/li><li>A short <strong>2 KM walk to the next nearest off-leash area <\/strong>(Riverdale Park West Dog Park)<\/li><li>Dog owners looking for late evening or early morning visits will appreciate the artificial lighting on the trail and nearby baseball diamond fields<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>May not be ideal for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Dogs with poor recall<\/li><li>Dogs that need alone time<\/li><li>Street Parking only<\/li><li>Open off-leash area (unfenced)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"directions-to-riverdale-park-east-dog-park\">Directions to Riverdale Park East Dog Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d7116.313694117957!2d-79.3639443222996!3d43.669988102332674!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e2!4m0!4m5!1s0x89d4cb6736419deb%3A0x54ff7965f96e6e4f!2sRiverdale%20Park%20East%2C%20550%20Broadview%20Ave%2C%20Toronto%2C%20ON%20M4K%202N6!3m2!1d43.6703312!2d-79.3562827!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1639169556785!5m2!1sen!2sca\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<p>Riverdale Park East is located just South of Danforth and Bloor and just north of East Chinatown. With its elevated space, Riverdale East is a spacious, activity-filled community park that is beloved by all nearby communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If this is your first time visiting Riverdale Park East, you may not not be immediately clear of \u2018where\u2019 the off-leash area is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Officially, <strong>there are no boundaries that define the off-leash area<\/strong> (though it is recognized by Toronto as a designated off-leash area), however you will find that <strong>most off-leash dogs will play in the large field in the middle of the park<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re arriving via car, you\u2019ll most likely be parking on a street off of Broadview Avenue to the East of the park. You will need to head down the slope to reach the off-leash area.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t want to walk on the slope?<\/strong> The off-leash area can also be accessed via:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Walking down the stairs near the skating rink to the north OR<\/li><li>Looping around the recreational trail that starts near <strong>Broadview <\/strong>and<strong> Langley Ave <\/strong>to the south<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"parking-at-riverdale-park-east-dog-park\">Parking at Riverdale Park East Dog Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"530\" height=\"413\" data-pin-description=\"Riverdale Park East Dog Park Map with off-leash area outlined, and nearby paid parking lots. Riverdale Park East Dog Park | Toronto Dog Park | East York Dog Park | Dog Park Review | Ontario Dog Parks\" data-pin-title=\"Riverdale Park East Dog Park Map\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Off-Leash-Area-and-Nearby-Parking-Lots.png\" alt=\"Riverdale Park East Map with highlighted areas to point out:\n1. off-leash area\n2. 720 Broadview Avenue Paid Parking Lot north of Riverdale Park East\n3. 14 St. Matthew Rd Paid Parking Lot south of Riverdale Park East\" class=\"wp-image-5402\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Off-Leash-Area-and-Nearby-Parking-Lots.png 530w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Off-Leash-Area-and-Nearby-Parking-Lots-300x234.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 530px) 100vw, 530px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Street parking on the streets just east of Broadview Avenue is <strong>free during the following hours<\/strong> 7:00 AM &#8211; 12:00 AM. On our weekend visit, we were able to find several open spaces on Sparkhall Ave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not a fan of street parking? There are several paid parking lots a walking distance away:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol><li><strong>720 Broadview Avenue<\/strong> (North of the park) which is an 8 minute walk from the off-leash area<\/li><li><strong>14 St. Matthew Rd<\/strong> (South of the park) which is a 5 minute walk from the off-leash area<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Limone from SYDE Road lying in the snow at the off-leash area of Riverdale Park East in the winter\" class=\"wp-image-5410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1387-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-key-features-of-riverdale-park-east-dog-park\">8 Key Features of Riverdale Park East Dog Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is an in-depth look at all the key features offered at Riverdale Park East Dog Park that you and your dog will love:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-long-flat-grassy-field\"><strong>1. Long, flat grassy field<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the larger dog parks in Toronto, Riverdale Park East\u2019s fields is a large expansive field to allow your dogs to run and run and still be within sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-active-community\">2<strong>. Active community<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for your next regular dog park, you\u2019ll be happy to know that Riverdale Park East has a very active community of dog owners that will watch out for each other. The Facebook Group: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/450896514950086\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Riverdale Dog Park<\/a> is a great reference for anyone who plans to make this a regular off-leash spot. You\u2019ll find coyote warning sightings, potential hazards and friendly memes in this group.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-1-km-recreational-trail\"><strong>3. 1 KM recreational trail<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While you might think this recreational trail is relatively short, this 1 KM woodlot trail offers a quiet and secluded trail walk and is great for spending a peaceful time bonding with your dog. The trail takes you through woodlots, a bridge over the connecting traffic from the Danforth to the Don Valley, before entering into the quiet back yard space of the nearby City Adult Learning Centre.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery alignwide has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"5416\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Maria and Limone from SYDE Road kissing on a bridge. Maria is kneeling in the snow while Limone is standing on her hind legs and giving a kiss near Maria's cheek.\" class=\"wp-image-5416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1436-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"5415\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Overlooking the Danforth road that connects cars to the Don Valley Parkway during the winter. \" class=\"wp-image-5415\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1428-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">A serene walk through the recreational trail will take you over a bridge that connects the Danforth with the Don Valley Parkway<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-public-washrooms-nearby\"><strong>4. Public washrooms nearby<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Public washrooms are located on the southernmost side of the at 14 St. Matthews Rd., Toronto<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-great-sunset-and-skyline-views\"><strong>5. Great sunset and skyline views<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can easily make your off-leash dog park visit a mini outing in itself. The hill on the east side of the Riverdale East Park is a popular location for all seasons and all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the summer: a great picnic and hang out spot to relax with your dog and friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the fall: amazing foliage views with a city skyline<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the winter: a popular tobogganing hill<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the evening: a romantic sunset view<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-bike-and-public-transportation-friendly\"><strong>6. Bike and public transportation-friendly&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a bike share rack available on Broadview Avenue around the middle of the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The park is also easily accessible via the Broadview streetcar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-artificial-lights-available\">7<strong>. Artificial lights available <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The recreational trail located on the west side of the Riverdale Park East offers lights along the trail. While they aren\u2019t floodlights , the trail lamps provided by the trail are sufficient for dog owners and walkers looking to spend early mornings or evenings here with relative visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-garbage-and-recycling-bins-located-around-park-perimeter-and-nearby-facilities\"><strong>8. Garbage and recycling bins located around park perimeter and nearby facilities <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Garbage and recycling bins can be found in the following locations around the perimeter of the off-leash area:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>South-side near the public washrooms<\/li><li>East-side atop the Broadview Ave slope<\/li><li>West-side &#8211; on the recreational trail<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We didn&#8217;t get a chance to visit the rink area to the north, but I assume that there are also several bins located there too.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Family building a snow fort at Riverdale Park East's Off-Leash Area. There are no fences around the off-leash area so it is very easy for family and dogs to accidentally mingle together.\" class=\"wp-image-5417\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1441-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>snow fort in the off-leash area of Riverdale Park East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"missing-feature-you-should-know-before-visiting-riverdale-park-east-dog-park\">Missing Feature You Should Know Before Visiting Riverdale Park East Dog Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-no-fences\">1. No Fences<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Much like other \u2018dog bowls\u2019, Riverdale Park East does not have any man-made fencing. Rather the park relies on the natural slope and swamp area to serve as the natural fencing around the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Maria and a friend slipping down the slope at Riverdale Park East as they head toward the off-leash dog park area\" class=\"wp-image-5408\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1375-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>The hill is deceptively steep when you&#8217;re sliding down in the snow<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"review-of-riverdale-park-east-dog-park-first-impression\">Review of Riverdale Park East Dog Park (First Impression)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We visited Riverdale Park East on the first snowfall of the year, during the afternoon and on a weekend to boot! Despite the late hour and the weekend, we were able to find a parking spot on the side streets immediately.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, during the peak summer months, I can definitely see weekend parking becoming an issue unless you visit early in the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The weather was hovering just above zero, and the snow was that perfect packable but still fluffy kind of snow that makes the best kind of snowmen and forts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This naturally meant that our first visit to the park was bustling with family fun. The slope was packed with kids and parents dragging and sliding down the slope with their toboggans.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The off-leash area was surprisingly empty though &#8211; with few off-leash dogs, and only a handful of small groups of families constructing snow forts and snowmen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With so few dogs and people around, Limone basically had the entire flat park to herself and boy did she put it to great use. Once unleashed, Limone had THE BEST TIME running and running and running around the snow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At one point she became this tiny little orange dot on the field because she was so far away!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After the first hour of unbridled sprinting back and forth across the field, we ended up exploring the nearby recreational trail, making sure to take plenty of stops on our short walk for photos.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While signs indicate that dogs should be on a leash during the trail walk, we did see one very well behaved off-leash dog during our stroll that stayed by his owner\u2019s side even as we passed by.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite the short trail length, we ended up spending over an hour traversing back and forth on the 1 KM woodlot trail. There are so many surprisingly scenic locations on the trail that it made for a very enjoyable&nbsp; and easy stroll &#8211; even in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be honest, the most difficult part of the entire day was walking back up the hill back to our car! While it was only slightly slippery thanks to the snow, I can see this being a real struggle during the icy days of winter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Limone from SYDE Road sitting and posing on a stump on the recreational trail near Riverdale Park East Dog Park\" class=\"wp-image-5413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1419-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"seasonal-details\">Seasonal Details<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When I write my dog park reviews, I try to include seasonal details &#8211; even if I\u2019ve only visited the dog park location a few times. I refer to Google Reviews for some additional seasonal information if I\u2019ve only visited a few times to fill out the other seasonal information as much as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>If you have any tips or additional comments, feel free to <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/contact\/\"><em>send me an email<\/em><\/a><em>, message me on <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/syderoad\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Twitter<\/em><\/a><em>, or slide me a DM on <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/syde_road\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Instagram<\/em><\/a><em>!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some key points to note depending on which season you are visiting this dog park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spring<\/strong> &#8211; Not actually written in the reviews, but you can find plenty of pictures of dogs in mud pools at this park during the \u2018mud season\u2019. The field in the rainy season looks like it will essentially turn into a mud pool so I\u2019d recommend avoid visiting for several days after a particularly rainy day to let the pools of mud dry before visiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Summer<\/strong> &#8211; Amazing place for sunset, picnics, and hanging out. Parking on the weekends will be extremely difficult so plan accordingly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fall<\/strong> &#8211; N\/A&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Winter<\/strong> &#8211; From personal experience, don\u2019t try to take the slope up or down if you\u2019re heading to the off-leash area unless you\u2019re sure you won\u2019t slip. I\u2019d recommend taking the long sidewalk route down and entering from the southern end of the park if your main purpose is to head to the open field.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-image-fill has-background\" style=\"background-color:#faf8f9;grid-template-columns:42% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-1024x1024.png);background-position:50% 50%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7306 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3-700x700.png 700w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Toronto-Dog-Park-Tote-Bag-CTA-Image-Transparent-3.png 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left has-large-font-size\"><strong>The Perfect Companion for Toronto Dog Owners<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Carrying gear AND finding the nearest dog park on your next adventure? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>How perfect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.etsy.com\/ca\/listing\/1218160149\/dog-park-map-of-toronto-map-tote-bag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy the Tote on Etsy<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>P.S.<\/strong> <em>Did you know a portion of every purchase made on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.etsy.com\/ca\/shop\/syderoad\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SYDE Road Store<\/a> goes towards donating to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vetswithoutborders.ca\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.vetswithoutborders.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vets without Borders<\/a>? They&#8217;re a not-for-profit Canadian volunteer association dedicated to improving the health of animals, people and the environment around the world.  <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-other-reviewers-are-saying\">What Other Reviewers are Saying<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Because Riverdale Park East Dog Park is loosely based within the entire park, Google Reviews does not have a specific review location to reference just the dog park. However, Riverdale Park East does have an overall overwhelmingly positive review. With over 3,100 reviews and an average of <strong>4.7 stars out of 5<\/strong>, this park is a huge hit with the general public. You\u2019ll likely end up visiting and lingering at this park for more than just the off-leash area!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the recurring positive comments:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Great sunset and good city skyline views<\/li><li>Tobogganing fun<\/li><li>Nice amenities like running track, outdoor skating rink, pool, tennis courts, calisthenics park<\/li><li>Very big&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In terms of negative or low-rated reviews, this is what most dissatisfied visitors have to say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Very close to traffic<\/li><li>Noisy because of the DVP (Don Valley Parkway)<\/li><li>Nice skylines but not THAT nice<\/li><li>Needs more shade, seats and table amenities &#8211; can only sit on the hill<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Maria and Limone from SYDE Road posing in the woodlot in Riverdale Park East's recreational trail beside the off-leash area. This short woodlot trail is a very serene and peaceful walk when Don Valley Parkway isn't busy.\" class=\"wp-image-5412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1405-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"riverdale-park-east-dog-park-summary\">Riverdale Park East Dog Park Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, Riverdale Park East is a nice large field for city dogs to stretch their legs and run with top speed for a good distance. The space is large and can cater to the most energetic runners in the city.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a visitor, this space felt like a more neighborly version of Trinity Bellwood Park. Each offers a great all season slope, a strong dog community, and are both spacious dog bowl style off-leash areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given the recurring reviews of a great sunset view, I\u2019d definitely love to come back again for a short evening romp and relaxing night atop Riverdale Park East\u2019s slope!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-bring\">What We Always Bring With Us to Dog Parks<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"footable_parent_6834\"\n         class=\" footable_parent ninja_table_wrapper loading_ninja_table wp_table_data_press_parent semantic_ui \">\n                <table data-ninja_table_instance=\"ninja_table_instance_0\" data-footable_id=\"6834\" data-filter-delay=\"1000\" aria-label=\"Dog Park Gear\"            id=\"footable_6834\"\n           data-unique_identifier=\"ninja_table_unique_id_658857161_6834\"\n           class=\" foo-table ninja_footable foo_table_6834 ninja_table_unique_id_658857161_6834 ui table  nt_type_ajax_table compact vertical_centered  footable-paging-right ninjatable_hide_header_row ninja_table_search_disabled\">\n                <colgroup>\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_0 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_1 \">\n                    <\/colgroup>\n            <\/table>\n                    <style type=\"text\/css\" id='ninja_table_custom_css_6834'>\n                        #footable_6834  {\n    font-family: inherit;\n    font-size: 14px;\n    }\n\n    \n                <\/style>\n                \n    \n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-s-on-limone\">What\u2019s on Limone:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the situation we rotate Limone through various harnesses and collars:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Our Everyday Harness<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/julius-k-9-idc-long-walk-harness\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Julius K-9 IDC \u00ae Longwalk Harness<\/a><\/li><li><strong>\u2018Photo-Op\/Meeting her Grandpawrents\u2019 Harness<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/knick-knack-paddy-whack-harness-in-prime\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Knick Knack Paddy Whack Harness in Prime<\/a> <strong><span style=\"color:#5cd3fc\" class=\"has-inline-color\">*locally made in Toronto<\/span><\/strong><\/li><li><strong>\u2018I\u2019m dirty, my harness is dirty, and I need a shower so I can&#8217;t wear a harness anymore\u2019 Collar<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/kong-padded-comfort-collar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">KONG\u00ae Comfort Weave Padded Dog Collar<\/a> &#8211; we bring this with us whenever we know Limone is going to get muddy or go into the water for a swim and we can&#8217;t bother with a harness<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, we rotate Limone\u2019s leash based on our needs. These are the three leashes we use regularly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Everyday Leash<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/4-my-merles-standard-braided-leash\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4 My Merles Creations &#8211; Standard Braided Leash<\/a>. <strong><span style=\"color:#5cd3fc\" class=\"has-inline-color\">*locally made in Orillia, Ontario<\/span><\/strong>. Here are the custom options we chose if you&#8217;d like the exact same one: <ul><li>Embroidered Handle<\/li><li>Poly Webbing Color: Yellow <\/li><li>Fleece Color: Red<\/li><li>Fleece Color 2: Royal Blue<\/li><li>Embroidery Color: Black <\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><strong>\u2018I\u2019m going to get dirty and drag my leash around OR I\u2019m going to be tied onto a doggy zipline\u2019<\/strong> Leash: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/amazons-choice-dog-training-leash-with-padded-handle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored\">Amazon\u2019s Choice Dog Training Leash with Padded Handle &#8211; 6ft in Grey<\/a><\/li><li><strong>Long Line Lead<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/recommends\/amazons-choice-20ft-long-lead\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored\">Amazon\u2019s Choice 20ft Long Lead in Black<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-pin-description=\"Do you love taking your pooch to the Trinity Bellwoods Park\u2019s Dog Bowl but hate the commute because you live on the East end of Toronto? Then consider this park near Danforth! Riverdale Park East Dog Park located at 550 Broadview Ave, offers similar vibes for Eastend Toronto folks! Full dog park review on SYDE Road. Riverdale Park East Dog Park | Riverdale Dog Park | Toronto Dog Park | East York Dog Park| Pet-Friendly Ontario | Ontario Dog Parks\" data-pin-title=\"Riverdale Park East Dog Park Review\" src=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Pinterest-Pin-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"Limone from SYDE Road sitting on stump at Riverdale Park East's Recreational Trail - Pinterest Pin background\" class=\"wp-image-5420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Pinterest-Pin-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Pinterest-Pin-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Pinterest-Pin-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Riverdale-Park-East-Pinterest-Pin-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Do you love taking your pooch to the Trinity Bellwoods Park\u2019s Dog Bowl but hate the commute because you live on the East end of Toronto? Then consider this similar park in the Riverdale area! Riverdale Park East Dog Park located at 550 Broadview Ave, offers similar vibes for East-end Toronto folks!<br \/>\nRiverdale Park East Dog Park | Riverdale Dog Park | Toronto Dog Park | East York Dog Park | <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5409,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[35,23],"tags":[],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":35,"label":"Greater Toronto Area"},{"value":23,"label":"Toronto Dog Parks"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/DSF1378-1024x683.jpg",1024,683,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Maria","author_link":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/author\/maria\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":35,"name":"Greater Toronto Area","slug":"greater-toronto-area","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":35,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Key areas: Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto, Scarborough","parent":39,"count":25,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":35,"category_count":25,"category_description":"Key areas: Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto, Scarborough","cat_name":"Greater Toronto Area","category_nicename":"greater-toronto-area","category_parent":39},{"term_id":23,"name":"Toronto Dog Parks","slug":"toronto-dog-parks","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":23,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Dog parks located in Toronto","parent":52,"count":15,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":23,"category_count":15,"category_description":"Dog parks located in Toronto","cat_name":"Toronto Dog Parks","category_nicename":"toronto-dog-parks","category_parent":52}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5398"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5398"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5398\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9290,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5398\/revisions\/9290"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5409"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5398"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5398"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syderoad.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5398"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}