Ontario Hiking in Brampton, Georgetown & Caledon
The fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year. With the changing colours on the trees, the leaves falling, and the crisp air, it is the perfect time of year to go on a hike!
Many might not know it, but there are a large number of trails all throughout Dufferin County, Halton Region, and Peel Region area of various levels of difficulty and terrain that can be explored. With some of these trails are paved, it makes for a great family activity to enjoy outdoors!
Brampton Hiking
Here are some of our top recommendations for hiking in Brampton:
Chinguacousy Trail
One of the most well-known trails in Brampton is the Chinguacousy Trail. Nearby there are a lot of other fun activities to do along with Chinguacousy Trail.
The most common attraction is the Donald M. Gordon Chinguacousy Park, which features 40 hectares of park space, including a greenhouse, petting zoo, skateboard park, running track, playground, and facilities for water play, skiing, curling, mini golf, tennis and much more.
Etobicoke Creek Trail
The Etobicoke Creek Trail is another favourite that is accessible to folks on both sides of Etobicoke Creek. This is a combination cycling and scenic trail that leads from Mississauga through the downtown area of Brampton and Caledon, where you can stop for refreshment.
Don Doan Trail
The Don Doan Trail goes through Professor’s Lake, which features a beach with a swimming area, water slide, beach volleyball courts, patio, playground, pathway for hiking, biking, and inline skating. The stunning views from the trails are well worth seeing. They feature benches along the way, and most are pet-friendly!
Georgetown Hiking
Georgetown has tons to offer in terms of hiking trails. Just west of Main Street in Georgetown, there is Remembrance Park, with beautiful floral gardens in memory of those who served, benches, and a fountain. Dominion Gardens Park contains many plants and during the summer.
Further down into Norval, there is the Lucy Maud Montgomery Gardens that has many heritage plants and the Willow Park Ecology Centre that has been transformed into a place where the public can view butterfly gardens and walking trails.
All in addition to the many trails that Georgetown offers. From shorter trails like the McNab Trail, Wildwood Trail, Jubilee Woodlot, and the Arborglen Trail to the longer Chris Walker Trail, Gellert Trail, or the Hungry Hollow Trail, there are so many options for everyone.
Caledon Hiking
If you are looking for a full day event, Caledon’s natural trails are superb! They are winding and offer many amenities added to make your hike more comfortable — considering many of them are upwards of 20 km! You don’t have to hike the full trail, but they do offer picnic areas and benches and parking near most of the trails.
The 55km of the Bruce Trail in Caledon is part of the oldest and longest marked footpath and provides the only continuous public access to the magnificent Niagara Escarpment.
The Caledon Trailway is a multi-use trail, ideal for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. It follows the path of an abandoned rail line and has beautiful views with ponds and wetlands. Other favourites include the Humber Valley Heritage Trail, The Grand Valley Trail and The Elora – Cataract Trail.
Hiking Tips
If you are going for a hike with a family, especially if you are not an experienced hiker, here are some helpful tips:
- Stay amongst the marked trails and paths
- Research and learn the terrain and local weather conditions
- Tell others where you are going and when you plan to return
- Know your limitations.
It is important to remember that you can always postpone your hike and the trail will be there another day. Whether you are postponing as a result of weather or fatigue, it is always better to stay safe.
From the team at the Paula Mitchell Group, we wish you happy hiking for this fall season!