Markham through the eyes of a resident photographer!

Markham residents are passionate about supporting local businesses, and have unique insight into local neighbourhoods and eateries.

Mike is a Canadian photographer and outdoors enthusiast who splits his time between living in the mountain-town of Whistler and Markham! Mike’s images are crafted to inspire others to seek the same experience, through appreciating the earth’s natural beauty and responsibly enjoying areas of environmental significance.

Mike has been a Markham resident for over 15 years, and recently shared some of his top places to visit in our community.

“Being a resident, I feel pretty lucky to be able to live in a town with a diverse set and range of activities to do.”

How does Mike describe Markham in 1 Word? DIVERSE

“Whether it is for the community itself or just the range of things you can do around town, I really believe that word describes Markham. I can do everything here: climbing, mountain biking, trail running: having Markham as a home base and a training ground is really such a valuable asset to me.”

While Covid-19 did disrupt his usual schedule, Mike focuses on the silver lining of this experience. He was able to explore his home town, creatively identify local projects (including working with Destination Markham!) and also focus on the more technical aspects of his photography.

Mike’s Markham Recommendations!

#1Joyride 150

Absolutely stellar facility. Interested in knowing more? Check out the video we put together on Joyride 150!

#2 HubClimbing

If you are a climber, they are beginner friendly, facilities are clean, staff are great.

#3 Milne Park / Rouge Valley Forest Trail

The amount of work the City of Markham has put into revitalizing our trial system is stellar. Gorgeous bridges, boardwalks, and trails, kick start your day or cap off your day with a good run, it is a great resource to use!

#4 Starving Artist Waffles & Espresso

One of Mike’s favourite cafes, they have a great local vibe and have some amazing items on their menu.

#5 Main street Unionville

Especially around the holidays! The lights look stellar and when it is snowing, it is an amazing place to visit!

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Rouge Valley Forest Therapy Trail

Forest Therapy Trail is part of Rouge Valley and is suitable for all ages. Enjoy the streams, creeks, and woods, and while most of it is paved, if you are adventurous there are also unpaved side trails to explore.

Website
Address: Tuclor Ln, Markham, ON L3P 3C6

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Starving Artist Waffles & Espresso

Starving Artists Waffle & Espresso is an all day brunch spot that highlights the best of breakfast food, all served on WAFFLES! Operating since 2009, they offer a variety of amazing dishes- and is currently also available for pickup and delivery.

Website
Instagram
Address: 5762 Hwy 7 Unit 3, Markham, ON L3P 1A7
Phone: 905-554-6388

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Milne Park

Milne Park is one of the most popular and well known hiking destinations in Markham, especially with the signature suspension bridge that has become an iconic landmark for Markham! Part of the Rouge Park, there are wetlands, forests, and wide, open spaces- a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The main entrance is on the east side of McCowan Road, just south of Hwy 7.

Website
Address: 8251 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON L3P 3J3
Phone: 905-477-5530

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Hub Climbing at Markham

Hub Climbing is an indoor rock climbing gym that offers 20,000 square foot of indoor climbing and bouldering, with a 23 foot tall free bouldering challenge and 22 roped climbing routes for kids and adults.

Website
Address: 3636 Hawkestone Rd unit 1, Mississauga, ON L5C 2V2
Phone: 905-363-1211

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McCowan Cricket Ground

For the night photography images, I have always gone to the Cricket Ground just off of McCowan to set up telescopes to either observe, or take images. It offers easy access during the summer months, and has a great unobstructed vantage point of the surrounding skies since it is located on top of a small hill.

Website
Address: 10615 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON L3P 3J3