Jay’s Trans Canada Trail: Traversing Mississauga
Written by Jay Kana
At nearly 30,000 kilometres long, the magnificent Trans Canada Trail runs coast to coast to coast and features some of the most remarkable places in our country. Tucked in Southern Ontario by the aptly and always-to-be-named Lake Ontario is Mississauga. While neighbouring Toronto may get all the glitz and glam due to its size, Mississauga holds its own, especially on the nature, parks and trails side. Nearly all of the Trans Canada Trail here runs parallel to the water. The city’s parks are gathering spots for the community and visitors, and while it’s a small portion of the overall Trail, they’re ones that should be experienced and enjoyed.
Accessibility and approachability are key components to the Trans Canada Trail; this nationwide network of trails should certainly be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or capability. Whether you’re in Mississauga or passing through, here are four places to enjoy the terrific Trans Canada Trail.
Jack Darling Memorial Park
Jack Darling Memorial Park sits in Lorne Park, between Port Credit and Clarkson. It’s a haven for those looking to enjoy Mississauga’s waterfront, and its shining gem is Rattray Marsh Conservation Area. It’s a 10-ish minute walk from the parking lot, with each step being thoroughly worth it. You’re rewarded with a boardwalk that curves through a lakefront marsh and is a hot spot for birdwatchers. You’ll find benches to stop and admire the scenery, the sounds of Lake Ontario echo through the trees and the serenity is unmatched. On a clear day, you can see the Toronto skyline. Four of the five marked trails are rated as “easy,” with the last one being “moderate.” This is one of my favourite places in Mississauga for its peacefulness and proximity to nature.
Photo credit: Jay Kana
Lakeside Park
Lakeside Park is the westernmost point of the Trail in Mississauga, and it’s one that comes with intention. Plunked in the middle of an industrial zone, it’s rare that it’s stumbled upon. Rather, it’s somewhere you plan to go, with the crisp waters of Lake Ontario always within sight and sound. For cyclists, there’s a bicycle repair station, a helpful and handy resource indeed. I saw a couple of birdwatchers camped out here, along with those walking their dogs (likely after some fun time at the leash-free zone by the parking lot), out strolling and appreciating this special part of the Trail.
Photo credit: Jay Kana
J.C. Saddington Park
J.C. Saddington Park is what I call a “worlds away.” The entrance is 500 metres away from the bustling intersection of Lakeshore and Mississauga Road in Port Credit, which in itself is Mississauga’s busiest neighbourhood. Once you’re on the Trail, and with every subsequent step or pedal westward, you’re moved towards a different world feeling, where the city buzz fades, replaced by nature’s symphony. Being so close to Port Credit, the Trail was well used, and I saw walkers, joggers, runners and cyclists of various ages. Whether you want to enjoy this on your own or in a group, for a short jaunt or to take your time over a couple of hours, this part of the Trans Canada Trail is truly beautiful.
Photo credit: Jay Kana
Lakefront Promenade Park
On the east side of Mississauga in Lakeview is Lakefront Promenade Park, featuring a shorter yet still enjoyable part of the Trail. There’s a manmade beach to enjoy, it’s a popular spot for launching non-motorized watercraft, and you’ll find plenty of places to sit and enjoy your surroundings. This family-friendly park features a splash pad and ample parking.
However you decide to traverse the Trans Canada Trail in your corner of the country, know that it’s one of the few majestic and affordable ways to enjoy Canada and experience it from a unique (and gorgeous) perspective.
Photo credit: Jay Kana
Jay Kana proudly owns Modern Traveller, a resource dedicated to inspiring anyone to explore and discover Canada’s widespread beauty. A professional travel writer for nearly two decades, he doubles as a professional automotive journalist via Modern Motoring. Plus, he owns Modern Mississauga Media, the city’s premier media outlet. Read about his recent explorations on the Trail on Le P’tit Train du Nord in Quebec’s Laurentian region, or more about Mississauga here!
Watch Jay’s video about exploring Mississauga here.
Explore the Trans Canada Trail in the Mississauga region on our interactive map.
By supporting Trans Canada Trail, you’ll help to ensure that the Trail will be around for generations to come — as a place to connect to nature and to one another. Learn more about how to support the Trans Canada Trail.
Main photo credit: Jay Kana
