Cross-country skiing is not only the perfect way to take in a pristine new snowfall but it’s great for enjoying Mother Nature and getting a good workout, too. There are plenty of hidden trails to explore on skis in the area. Here are our picks for the best cross-country ski trails in the Brampton area.
Albion Hills
This conservation area in Caledon has 26 kilometers of trails for skiers of all levels and expertise. They have equipment rentals, waxes and other supplies available on-site, as well as a heated chalet and a cafe. Tobogganing, snowshoeing, fat biking and skate skiing are some other activities are also available at Albion Hills.
Heart Lake Conservation
Heart Lake doesn’t offer ski rentals, but if you can get your hands on a pair, it has lots of little nooks and crannies perfect for exploring with cross-country skis or snowshoes. The area is massive, with small rolling hills, trails in the forest and of course, the lake. There is so much to explore here.
Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Terra Cotta Conservation is located just on the outskirts of Brampton. This scenic area in the Credit Valley has six kilometers of trails that are ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers. Ski and boot rentals are available on-site.
Etobicoke Creek Trail
The Etobicoke Creek Trail spans a 14-kilometer from Steeles Avenue to Kennedy Road Arena on Avondale to Manitou Park on North Park Drive. The trail is easy to access, perfect for beginners, and it’s a good distance if you really want to break a sweat.
Claireville Conservation Area
These 848 aces of nature and forest is already a popular spot for walkers, bikers and bird watchers. It doesn’t offer ski rentals either, but there’s so much to explore here, you’ll forget you’re in a city of 600,000 people. You may even catch a glimpse of the wildlife inhabiting the park — birds, foxes, deer and more.
Hilton Falls
Hilton Falls has a beautiful, groomed 16 kilometers of trails that travel through escarpment woods and beaver meadows. It’s absolutely beautiful in the winter and bonus: there’s a waterfall waiting for you. Trails are suitable for all levels of skiers and rentals are available for adults and children.
Monora Park
This park close to Orangeville has 20 kilometres of trails. This forested area has cross-country trails that are regularly groomed. To ski on the trail users must belong to Mono Nordic Ski Club or purchase a day pass. Rentals are also available through the ski club.
Crawford Lake
Crawford Lake’s cross-country ski trails run through escarpment, woods and fields. The 5-kilometer stretch is a winter wonderland. Crawford Lake is also the site of a rare meromictic lake and a recreated Iroquoian village, and you can explore both on your adventures. Rentals are available.
Mountsberg
Just a 30-minute drive from Brampton, Mountsberg area trails run along a shoreline and through quiet woods where you can see bison and elk. You’ll have to bring your own skis to explore these 14 kilometers of trails because rentals aren’t available on site.
Caledon Trailway
Caledon Trailway spans 35 kilometres and sits along an abandoned rail line. It’s Caledon’s connection to the Trans Canada Trail that spans the length of the country. It’s used by pedestrians, horseback riders and cyclists in warmer months, and in the winter it’s a scenic trail to enjoy some cross-country skiing.
