Night Owls

When drifting off seems to be all-together too daunting a task, and the big hand is slowly creeping into the wee hours, it's time to pound the pavement.  Round up a gang of fellow insomniacs, and seek out a vista.

Some notable nighttime walks include:

The Brickworks

(pictured above, photography by Chris Taylor)

Just east of the DVP, and north of the Danforth, this is a sight to be seen day or night.  You'll want to have an idea of where you're going before you head out (or not...) and make sure you have plenty of time to rest your feet the next day.

The Lakeshore

Though we live in a bustling metropolis, we are in fact situated quite near one of the largest lakes in the world (Lake Ontario).  Head off down Yonge Street and keep walking, you'll end up at the lake.  Just don't get too carried away and do something completely irrational like going in the water.

Casa Loma

Yes it's true.  There is a castle, a real-live castle, in Toronto.  It's at St Clair and Bathurst.  Don't forget your tiara!

What To Wear

No matter where you're headed, there are a few things to keep in mind for a nighttime trek.

1. Dress warmly.  You will regret it if you don't.  Whether you're layering an extra sweater, wrapping yourself up in a long pashmina, or tucking your locks into a soft, warm cap, make sure you'll be able to handle winter's worst for more than a few hours.
2. Wear sensible footwear.  This point is not often made, so heed this advice now if ever.  Long walks are not the appropriate environment for high heels, and anything with an open toe, or open at all, is completely unacceptable in the dead of winter.
3. Wear socks!  If you think you're going to get your feet wet, bring extras.  Cold, wet feet are every walker's worst enemy.
4. Bring a camera!  Nothing like a few nice shots of you comrades out and about wreaking havoc.  Just be mindful while wreaking that you don't do anything illegal.  It's nighttime, you're not invisible.
5. Bring a little change for a warm drink on the way home.  Bring some bills if you're feeling generous.  (And you should feel generous often, it's contagious!)

Have fun out there.