About this project

The Hidden Creek Walk invites you to explore the layered history of Jaffary's Creek and the surrounding West Bolton neighborhood. This trail features a segment of the mostly buried tributary of the Humber River, a vital waterway that has shaped human life here for generations. Along the way, you will encounter stops that highlight themes of gathering, early settlement, sports and play, neighbourhood growth, and environmental stewardship. For thousands of years, Indigenous Nations, including the Mississaugas, Haudenosaunee, Wendat, and Chippewa, lived in close relationship with these waterways, using them for travel, trade, ceremony, and daily life. With the arrival of settlers, creeks like Jaffary's were gradually altered and buried to make way for agriculture, roads, and urban growth. Today, small sections of Jaffary's Creek remain visible, but its influence is still felt in the layout of the neighbourhood, and efforts to protect local ecosystems. Visit trca.ca/hidden-creek-walk to explore the stops along the Hidden Creek Walk and discover more stories from this dynamic landscape. This initiative is part of the West Bolton Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program (SNAP), which aims to create a greener, healthier, and more resilient West Bolton Neighbourhood. The sound walk was created by O Stecina as part of a collaboration with The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University

Audio samples

Introduction and Stop 1 - Playing Together

0:00

Welcome to the Hidden Creek Walk! At this stop, you will learn about the history of this land, and how play has been used across time to bring the people of this area together and form their relationship with the lands and waters.

Stop 2 - Living Together

0:00

In this stop, you'll learn about some of Bolton's residents who became the namesakes of streets and buildings, and how those buildings have changed over time. You'll also discover ways that you can help create a more sustainable (and affordable) future by making small changes to your home!

Stop 3 - Gathering Together

0:00

On this stop, you'll learn the histories of many of Bolton's gathering places. From simple barns to long-standing brick structures, discover how expansion created community and collaboration, even in the face of hardship.

About the creator

Hidden Creek Walk

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Sound Walk by O Stecina in collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University

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