**Fall is Here: Enjoy a Walk in Mississauga**

With fall upon us, it’s the perfect time to explore the beautiful scenery in Mississauga. The leaves are beginning to change, and peak colors in southern Ontario are expected in the coming weeks.

Typically, color changes start in September around Muskoka, while areas closer to the Greater Toronto Area experience them a bit later. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far to enjoy fall foliage; Mississauga, Brampton, and the surrounding regions offer plenty of fantastic options.

Here are five trails to experience autumn colors in Mississauga:

### David J. Culham Trail
This 13.2-kilometre multi-use trail features a mix of natural and urban landscapes. AllTrails calls it “one of the best-kept nature secrets in the heart of Mississauga.” It’s renowned for its vibrant fall colors along the Credit River, and you might even spot Chinook salmon on their annual journey upstream to spawn.

Access the trail from Erindale Park, located on Dundas Street West, just east of Mississauga Road. The trail consists of two sections: one from Dundas Street to Mississauga Road (Streetsville) and the other from Church Street to Velebit Court, linking to the University of Toronto Mississauga, Erindale Park, Streetsville Memorial Park, and Riverwood Community Centre.

### Sawmill Valley Trail
Starting at Erindale Park, this 9.2-kilometre trail crosses the Credit River and follows Sawmill Creek. AllTrails describes it as having a gradual incline, making it generally easy to navigate. The path is a mix of paved, wooden boardwalks, and packed dirt, surrounded by beautiful trees and a tranquil river. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching, making it a great choice for spring visits as well.

### Etobicoke Creek Trail
For those seeking a challenge, this 34.5-kilometre trail extends through Mississauga to Brampton and Caledon. Hikers can opt to tackle segments of the trail, though some areas require walkers and cyclists to cross roadways. Following the creek, the trail meanders through parks, urban forests, and wildflower fields. Residents can access it from Burnhamthorpe Road at Garnetwood Park, located at 4070 Ponytrail Dr.

### Cooksville Creek Trail
This eight-kilometre out-and-back trail is generally considered easy. The route winds through picturesque, forested areas alongside Cooksville Creek, combining paved trails, gravel paths, and road connections that lead south to Lakeshore Road and the Waterfront Trail. The trailhead is accessible from Shipp Drive, just south of Rathburn Road, behind the first office building.

### Rattray Marsh Trails
Rattray Marsh is stunning year-round, but its forested trails are particularly breathtaking in the fall. There are five short trails to choose from, all rated as easy or moderate. The Sheridan Creek Trail leads hikers through old-growth forest, offering a great opportunity to admire fall foliage. For more information, visit the Credit Valley Conservation Area website. You can access the Rattray Marsh trails from Jack Darling Memorial Park, located at 1180 Lakeshore Rd. Please note that the trail access from Silver Birch was closed to the public as of early October.

Get out and enjoy the vibrant colors of fall in Mississauga!