The last three summers were the hottest ever recorded. The summer of 2024 saw temperatures climb 1.52°C above average, and some cities, such as Phoenix, Arizona, saw temperatures above 110°F for over 60 days straight. Beyond staying hydrated and hanging out in your public library, where else can someone go to comfortably relax in this type of heat?
Thordyke may have a solution for you. While he loves to bask in the sun, he also needs shade in which to cool off and read a book. So, he went on a quest to find his five favorite shady spots in Canton to recommend to everyone, and this is what he discovered:
Did you know Heritage Park is right next to the library? In addition to having lots of trees, Heritage Park also has a wonderful gazebo near the north-east part of the park. The gazebo is perfect for taking a break from the sun and is also a nice, short walk from the library for Thorndyke.
The Lower Rouge Trail is one of the premier spots in Canton for finding shade and taking a beautiful stroll in the woods (where Thorndyke feels right at home). Starting just east of I-275, the trail offers about three miles of trees and shade as it heads west towards Canton Center Road.
Canton’s own Cherry Hill Village offers lots of great places to shop and visit in the town square. In addition to its nationally recognized historical status and beautiful homes, there is a fantastic little grove of trees with a fountain right at the intersection of Ridge and Cherry Hill roads.
This is an extra-special place for Thorndyke to get some shade, since an ice cream shop is right next to it.
Thorndyke had an especially good time at Flodin Park, as this is a spot where he could play baseball, soccer, tennis and basketball all in one visit before needing to finally retreat into the shade for a long water break.
At the south end of the park is the Fellows Creek Wetland Nature Trail, a short, beautiful stretch to walk off your picnic lunch and to get a break from the sunshine.
Like the Lower Rouge, the Zibiwés Nature Area offers beautiful trails with lots of shade. This one is a nice alternative to the Lower Rouge, because at 1.7 miles, it is just over half the length, providing residents with options for the distance they feel like walking.
This nature area is also unique in that it was slated to become a park, but was changed in favor of offering more nature and protecting the ecosystem. Thorndyke feels right at home.
Which of Thorndyke’s favorite shady spots have you visited? If you have not experienced any of them yet, go grab your shoes and enjoy some refreshing shade.
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