Parkbus, in collaboration with Parks Canada, Mountain Equipment Company and TD Bank, is once again offering the TD Rouge Express — a free shuttle bus service from downtown Toronto to the Rouge National Urban Park, between June to October 2024. Visitors can join a Parks Canada guided walk on most days, or can explore the park on their own.
To ride this free shuttle, simply book your spot online with a $15 deposit that is refunded when you show up to claim your spot on trip day.
To make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible, here are a few things to consider before the trip:
Please arrive 15 minutes early at your pickup location. We do not wait for late passengers, so consider taking a taxi, Uber/Lyft or public transit if you are running late.
The 34 Asquith Ave pickup location is about 100 meters north of the Yonge-Bloor subway entrance (Yonge Street Entrance). As there may be multiple buses, please ensure that you are in line for the correct bus.
Please note that Parks Canada staff are unable to provide any information about the bus or your reservations.
If you have any questions about reservations or the bus, please email help@parkbus.ca.
If you are planning on visiting the Toronto Zoo, you can pre-purchase tickets (recommended) or buy in-person upon arrival. Tickets can be purchased online here: Admissions
Leave No Trace
Respect the environment and remember to pack out everything you pack in. We want to make sure that we leave the park in better shape than we found it. Please remember:
- Bring a bag to carry your garbage until you can dispose of it properly. Garbage and recycling bins are available in the Zoo Road Day Use Area parking lot.
- Campfires, alcohol, barbecues and fireworks are not allowed in Rouge National Urban Park.
- Harvesting (plants or wildlife) is prohibited in Rouge National Urban Park to protect endangered species and ensure that others can enjoy the park as you did. Bring back memories only.
- Keep wildlife wild. The best place to observe wildlife up close is at the Toronto Zoo. Never feed or approach animals in Rouge National Urban Park, for their safety and yours.
Safety
Lyme disease is on the rise in North America. While your chances of getting bitten by an infected tick are low, you must take appropriate steps to minimize the risk, especially if you have kids or pets. Make sure to read What’s the tick situation in the Rouge? to avoid ticks and know what to do if you find one.
Please do not forget anything on the bus! The buses are stationed outside of Toronto and are used on other routes. We are not be able to locate any missing items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who funded this service anyways?
The service is funded primarily by TD Bank Group as part of their TD Friends of the Environment Fund, Parks Canada and Mountain Equipment Company.
What do I need to bring with me?
In addition to food, water and snacks, we recommend that you bring what you need to spend the day outdoors, dress for the weather and wear closed toed footwear. Check the weather forecast before you come and consider bringing rain gear with you just in case.
Can anyone board the bus for free?
Yes. As long as there is space. All seats must be reserved online with a refundable credit card deposit (deposit is refunded as long as you show up).
Are your buses wheelchair accessible?
At this time, school buses are not outfitted to accommodate wheelchairs. We do our best to support those who have support persons, and those who have folding wheelchairs, please inquire before booking.
What kind of buses do you use? Is there is washroom / AC on board?
We use school buses for this route, they do not have washrooms or air conditioning. While they are less comfortable than motorcoach buses (which we use on Parkbus overnight destinations such as Algonquin), they also cost a fraction of what a motorcoach costs, allowing us to triple the number of days of operation available.
Do I have to participate in Parks Canada events if I take the bus?
No, you are free to explore the park on your own. Please adhere to Leave No Trace principles - leave only footsteps, take only photos, don’t venture off trails, and don’t miss your bus back.
Are pets allowed on board?
No, pets are not permitted on the bus.
Can we bring bikes or strollers?
We use a school bus for this route, and unfortunately there is no space for bikes. Folding strollers may work, if they fold really well - if you are coming with a folding stroller, be sure to show up early to be the first one on the bus.
