Erindale Park — Attraction in Mississauga

Absolutely love this park! I grew up around its woods and waters, so I'll share some info about it for anyone interested. First the cliche stuff: great for picnics and family barbecues, lots of parking but fills up quickly on sunny weekend afternoons; washrooms should be open. Definitely check out the UTM Nature Trail (I love going in September to watch the trees turn during the salmon run, the birds-eye view is fantastic; but it's great year-round!). For fishing, check with local conservation authorities (CVC) as the populations can fluctuate, so be responsible. I wouldn't recommend eating anything you catch in urban areas.

Now some background:

It's the largest park in Mississauga, and is part of the broader Credit River watershed, which formed ~10,000yrs ago when the Laurentide Ice Sheet retreated (this same sheet carved out the Great Lakes and most lakes of the Canadian Shield).

It's called the Credit River because when European settlers (beginning with the French) came to the region, they traded with the Indigenous Anishinaabe peoples on a principle of credit along this river.

The watershed's unique geology and climate mean that it's an ideal habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Hawk, deer, and a few species of fish are not uncommon, along with various woodpeckers, garter snakes, etc.

My personal favourite, ubiquitous in this region which you can find most easily in late spring to early summer under rotting logs, is the lungless Eastern Red-Backed Salamander (P. cinereus, pictured; if you find it, be kind! They need moisture to breathe through their skin and are very territorial, so leave them where you find them!). They evolved ~50 million years ago and have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria on their skin that produce antifungals, protecting them from their habitat. They eat mainly small insects.

Show your kids where to find them and you won't be able to pull them away - try the many rotted logs up on the cliff of the UTM Nature Trail, it won't take long to find but if it's hot and dry (July) or cold (October) you'll struggle, they go deeper underground. June is best.

If you look closely at the rock formations, they tell of a rich geological history: limestone, in which you can readily see small marine shell fossils (mostly bivalves), are a relic of when this entire region was submerged under a shallow tropical sea millions of years ago. Most of the cliff formations are a mix of this and shale, which also tends to form underwater in calm conditions.

If you go to the parking lot and cross the bridge, make a right in the field and walk down to the edge of the water, there's a trail in the woods there. Rip off some cedar leaf and smear it in your hands, get your kids to smell it; learn about some of the local plants, take them up the trail, if you find a spot with lots of moist looking logs and leaf litter (there's a good spot near the trail mark), look for salamanders with them.

Show them some of the rocks and explain how much this world has changed, how this all used to be underwater, then under ice, then a hotspot for trade between Europeans and Indigenous peoples, until finally the park it is today. Take them for the salmon run and teach them about why it's important to protect these places.

I promise you, it will be one of the most educational, enriching sensory experiences a child could hope for - the smell of cedar, the rushing water, the thrill of looking for critters, finding fossils, understanding the history of this sacred place.

This place is my heart outside my body. Please enjoy it and treat it with respect so that our children's children can...

A Tranquil Oasis: Exploring Erindale Park

Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Erindale Park is a hidden gem that effortlessly combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities. With its picturesque creek, inviting trails, and a plethora of recreational options, this park offers something for everyone, making it the perfect escape for a day of relaxation and adventure.

One of the standout features of Erindale Park is its stunning creek. The creek meanders gracefully through the park, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding greenery. As you stroll along the banks, the soothing sound of running water creates a tranquil atmosphere that's perfect for unwinding or a leisurely picnic.

Speaking of picnics, Erindale Park boasts a well-maintained picnic area. Equipped with sturdy tables and comfortable benches, it provides a wonderful spot to enjoy a meal amidst the scenic beauty of the park. Whether you're with family or friends, this area encourages quality time and shared memories.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, the cozy trail at Erindale Park is a delightful experience. It winds through the park's lush landscape, offering an easy hike for all skill levels. It's a fantastic way to get some exercise, reconnect with nature, and escape the city's hustle.

Fishing enthusiasts will find their haven at Erindale Park as well. The creek is stocked with various fish, making it an ideal place to cast your line and spend a relaxing day trying to land the catch of the day.

Families with children are in for a treat as the park includes a vibrant and well-maintained playground with slides and swings. Kids can frolic and play to their hearts' content while parents relax nearby, knowing their little ones are in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Accessibility is a key feature of Erindale Park. It is conveniently reachable by public transport, ensuring that you can leave the car at home and easily access this natural retreat. Moreover, ample parking is available for those who prefer to drive, making it accessible for everyone.

The charming wooden bridge that spans the creek is the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a photo opportunity. Its rustic design fits seamlessly into the park's aesthetic, adding to its overall charm.

In conclusion, Erindale Park is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends the wonders of nature with modern amenities. With its beautiful creek, cozy trail, fishing opportunities, picnic areas, a playground for children, excellent accessibility, and a picturesque wooden bridge, it's a place that captures the essence of outdoor leisure. Whether you're seeking solitude or a day of family fun, Erindale Park has it all. Don't miss the chance to explore this tranquil oasis; it's a hidden treasure worth...

Erindale Park, located in Mississauga, Ontario, is a cherished natural retreat that offers a diverse array of recreational activities amidst its stunning landscape. Spanning over 222 acres, it is the largest park in the city and is situated along the scenic Credit River, which flows through the heart of the park, providing visitors with picturesque views and opportunities for activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

The park is a heaven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its extensive network of trails, including sections of the renowned Culham Trail, which is popular among hikers, joggers, and cyclists. These trails wind through dense forests, open meadows, and along the riverbanks, offering a serene environment for a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.

Erindale Park is also a favored spot for picnics and gatherings, with several designated picnic areas, barbecues, and ample open space for games and relaxation. The park's open fields are often filled with families and groups enjoying various sports and outdoor activities.

Additionally, it serves as a popular site for birdwatching, with a variety of species making the park their home throughout the year.

In the winter, Erindale Park transforms into a winter wonderland, where visitors can engage in tobogganing and cross-country skiing. The park's natural beauty, coupled with its versatility for year-round activities, makes it a beloved destination for both residents and visitors seeking to connect with nature in the heart of Mississauga.

I would say go down to Riverwood through the trail from UTM namely,...