Experience Mississauga’s Fall Colours: Top Spots for Leaf Peeping

October 20, 2024 Danielle Larmond 0 Comments 3 min read

Mississauga – As the days grow shorter, Mississauga is embracing the vibrant hues of autumn, with the city’s vast urban forest transforming into a picturesque landscape of reds, oranges, and yellows. From maple and oak to elm and hickory, Mississauga’s diverse tree species put on a spectacular show during mid-October to November, making it the perfect time to explore local parks and trails. Here’s a roundup of some of the best places to enjoy the fall foliage in Mississauga.

1. Riverwood: A Natural Oasis in the City

Riverwood is a scenic gem situated in the heart of Mississauga. With its meadows, ravines, wetlands, and old-growth forests, this park offers a captivating display of fall colours, attracting visitors year-round. The park is also a historical treasure, featuring landmarks like the 1919 Chappel House, which serves as the home of the Riverwood Conservancy, and the McEwan Field Station and MacEwan Barn, known for their original hand-cut beams.

The days may be getting shorter, but the city is starting to come alive with colour 🍂🍁Mississauga’s fall colours have begun their annual display.

Thanks to the city’s diverse tree canopy you can enjoy the colours from Mississauga’s many parks & trails: https://t.co/Es822GVeSw pic.twitter.com/y5BD6lby7I

— City of Mississauga (@citymississauga) October 18, 2024

2. Streetsville Memorial Park: A Family-Friendly Destination

For a peaceful day out, visit Streetsville Memorial Park along the Credit River. The park’s spacious picnic areas, playground, and open green spaces make it an ideal spot for families. The scenic bridge over the Credit River is a prime location for capturing stunning photos of the autumn landscape. Consider packing a picnic or grabbing a treat from the nearby shops on Queen Street South to complete your outing.

3. Meadowvale Conservation Area: Step Back in Time

Located in north Mississauga, Meadowvale Conservation Area invites visitors to enjoy a full day surrounded by nature. In addition to trails lined with colourful trees, the park offers picnic spots, barbecues, and open fields for games. Along the trails, you can discover remnants of an early pioneer settlement, including an old mill and farmhouse, adding a touch of history to your nature walk.

4. Jack Darling Memorial Park & Rattray Marsh Conservation Area: Lakefront Beauty

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area is home to the last remaining lakefront marsh between Toronto and Burlington, accessible via a boardwalk that winds through the area. The fall colours create a striking contrast against the blue waters of Lake Ontario. Visitors can extend their walk along the trail to Jack Darling Memorial Park, where more breathtaking views await.

5. Scenic Trails for Walking or Biking

For those who prefer exploring trails, Mississauga has plenty of options. The Waterfront Trail, Lake Wabukayne Trail, Lake Aquitaine Trail, Glen Erin Trail, and Lisgar Meadowbrook Trail are all great places to take a stroll or bike ride while enjoying the fall colours.

Protecting Mississauga’s Urban Forest

With over two million trees, Mississauga’s urban forest is an essential part of the city’s natural heritage, providing environmental, health, and quality-of-life benefits. The City of Mississauga is actively working to protect these trees through several initiatives, including the Urban Forest Management Plan and Invasive Species Management Plan. These programs aim to combat threats such as invasive species, urban development, and severe weather.

How to Support Mississauga’s Trees

Residents can contribute to the health of Mississauga’s trees by following these tips:

Report invasive plant species on city property using the invasive species reporting form.
Stay on official trails to prevent the spread of invasive seeds.
Report any trees that appear diseased or dead.
Participate in the City’s One Million Trees initiative to plant more trees.
Use the City’s tree map to learn about local tree species.
Nominate a tree for the Fantastic Trees program or explore the interactive map to see some of the city’s most remarkable trees.

Practising Park Etiquette

To help preserve Mississauga’s parks, visitors are reminded to dispose of litter properly, keep dogs leashed, pick up after pets, stay on designated trails, and refrain from feeding wildlife.

For more information on Mississauga’s parks and programs, visit mississauga.ca/parks. Don’t miss out on the vibrant fall colours while they last—plan your outdoor adventure today!

SOURCE City of Mississauga