The Highland Creek Ravine is an important part of UTSC, recalling the natural history of the university’s original 300-acre purchase and the regional natural heritage network that extends from Markham to Lake Ontario.  Development of this zone has been carefully managed to preserve this natural setting and maintain the vistas over the Highland Creek watershed, while allowing access for teaching, research and recreation.

The ravine is bookended by Morningside Park to the west and Col. Danforth Park to the south.  A sanctuary for wildlife and favourite destination for hikers and naturalists, the ravine lands link with Rouge Valley, Canada’s first national urban park. UTSC continues to strengthen its program of environmental stewardship as the Parks Canada’s primary research and education partner, and by collaborating with the City of Toronto and Toronto Region Conservation Authority on projects that include ecological restoration, wildlife protection and conservation, water quality monitoring and recreational opportunities.

In addition to natural habitats, the campus’ beautiful ravine zone features two multi-sport grass fields suitable for soccer, rugby, football, cricket, and more. The Dan Lang Field is a full high performance baseball diamond and home to U of T’s Varsity Blues baseball team.  In 2011, University of Toronto President David Naylor named the field for the beloved professor and the longest-serving head coach of the Varsity Blues who led the team to two Ontario University Athletics league championships and two silver medals.  

UTSC has a strong tennis tradition with facilities supporting community, tournament and intramural teaching, coaching and play.  A new tennis facility, with eight courts and a stadium court will open in 2015 as the site for the Parapan American Games.