8 stunning hiking trails where you can see fall colours in Mississauga

If you’re looking to explore the scenic beauty of nature, you won’t have to go far—some of the best hiking trails to experience vibrant fall colours are right here in Mississauga!

As fall officially begins on Sept. 22 this year, the leaves are already starting to change, signalling the perfect time to enjoy autumn hikes.

Typically, the best time to experience fall colours in Ontario is from early to mid-October, although the timing can vary depending on the weather.

Here are eight trails to explore for stunning autumn colours:

David J. Culham Trail
This 11.2-kilometre multi-use trail offers a combination of urban and natural scenery, making it an excellent spot to take in the brilliant fall colours along the Credit River. A special treat for hikers is the chance to see Chinook salmon making their way upstream to spawn during the season. The trail, accessible from Erindale Park on Dundas Street West near Mississauga Road, is split into two parts: the section from Dundas Street to Mississauga Road (Streetsville) and the part running from Church Street to Velebit Court. Along the way, there are connections to the University of Toronto Mississauga, Erindale Park, Streetsville Memorial Park and Riverwood Community Centre.

Sawmill Valley Trail
Stretching 9.2- kilometres, this trail also starts at Erindale Park and follows Sawmill Creek after crossing the Credit River. With a gentle incline, it is a mix of paved paths, wooden boardwalks and packed dirt, offering a tranquil setting. Known for its beautiful trees and peaceful river, the trail is also a great place for birdwatching, making it worth a return visit in the spring.

Etobicoke Creek Trail
For those seeking a challenge, the Etobicoke Creek Trail spans 34.5 kilometres, extending through Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon. Hikers can choose to explore parts of the trail, which follows the creek through parks, urban forests and wildflower fields. In Mississauga, the trail can be accessed from Garnetwood Park off Burnhamthorpe Road at 4070 Ponytrail Dr.

Cooksville Creek Trail
This eight-kilometre out-and-back trail is considered one of the easier routes. It winds through scenic forested areas along Cooksville Creek. The trail combines paved paths, gravel, and road connections, running south to Lakeshore Road and the Waterfront Trail. The trailhead is located at Shipp Drive, south of Rathburn Road, behind the first office building.

Rattray Marsh Trails
Rattray Marsh offers breathtaking views year-round, but its forested trails are particularly breathtaking in the fall. The conservation area features five short trails, all rated as easy or moderate. The Sheridan Creek Trail is a standout, guiding hikers through old-growth forests and providing an excellent opportunity to see fall foliage. These trails can be accessed from Jack Darling Memorial Park at 1180 Lakeshore Rd.

Lisgar Meadow Brook Trail

This trail is a 7.9-kilometre paved path that winds through the naturalized greenbelt along the Lisgar Creek, a tributary of Sixteen Mile Creek. The peaceful trail offers a mix of natural beauty and accessibility, making it a popular spot for birdwatching, biking and leisurely walks. An additional 2.4-kilometre spur loops around Osprey Marsh, providing even more opportunities to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The trail can be accessed from Britannia Road, with additional connections at Osprey Boulevard and Derry Road.

Lake Aquitaine Trail

Located in Meadowvale, this 3.2-kilometre loop around Lake Aquitaine provides stunning waterfront views with reflections of fall colours. It’s a flat, easy trail, perfect for a leisurely autumn walk. The trail is accessible from Aquitaine Avenue near Meadowvale Community Centre​.

Cawthra Woods Trail

This shorter 2.3-kilometre loop trail is located near Cawthra Road and the QEW. It leads through a dense forest with towering trees, making it an ideal spot for enjoying fall foliage without leaving the city. The trailhead is located near the Cawthra Estate.