Enjoy a Summer Day at Terra Cotta CA
Summer is here and we invite you to get outdoors and explore Terra Cotta Conservation Area (CA). Located in Halton Hills, just outside the village of Terra Cotta, this park remains an undiscovered treasure for many locals and tourists alike. Discover everything this park offers and start planning your adventure!
History of Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Terra Cotta was the first conservation area Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) owned and held the first administrative offices located there until 1965.
CVC designated Terra Cotta CA as a conservation area in the mid-1950s and it remained a popular recreational spot until 1995. In those days, the park differed from the protected ecological gem we have today. After a change in direction to focus more on protection, all areas affected by intense recreational activities were given the opportunity to regenerate naturally and the large swimming pool was replaced with an acclaimed wetland. Terra Cotta’s visitors now enjoy a 485-acre park boasting with a variety of flora and fauna.
Home to Diverse Wonders
Terra Cotta CA is situated on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It is part of the Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest for being home to some of the finest Escarpment habitat in this region of Ontario. That’s why the area is part of the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System and supports the provincial Niagara Escarpment Plan’s goals and objectives.
This park creates an ideal habitat for a diversity of life to thrive and for everyone to enjoy!
What Can You See?
Terra Cotta CA is renowned for its abundant wildlife. The number of wildlife species you can find within Terra Cotta CA and neighbouring Silver Creek CA are:
- 151 birds
- 15 amphibians
- 6 reptiles
- 14 mammals
The Provincial Species at Risk includes some of these species, while others rely on high-quality water features found within mature forests.
You can expect to see a variety of salamanders, turtles, frogs, migratory and songbirds, butterflies, deer, squirrels and other small mammals dependent on the time of year. If you are a birder or photographer, this is a great spot to visit!
Plant species are also benefitting from protection at Terra Cotta CA. The Butternut tree is an example of a species at risk that requires specific forest habitat to thrive, which it finds at the park.
The variety of ecosystems provides an ideal home for many other important plant species. In the spring, trilliums and trout lilies will delight you as nature wakes up from a long winter.
What Can You do?
Hike the Trails
Terra Cotta CA is open year-round for visitors to explore! There are a variety of hiking trails, from moderate to more difficult. A favourite for many visitors is Terra Cotta Lane, a stroller friendly trail that is only 2 kilometres long and takes you past Wolf Lake and the Maple Hills Sugarbush.
Picnic in the Park
Terra Cotta has become a gathering place for many special occasions. With multiple picnic shelters and open area picnic sites with unique backdrops, we see family gatherings, celebrations, reunions, corporate events and more. Bookings open annually on February 1.
Tales on the Trail
Tales on the Trail is an interactive experience that promotes literacy and recreation in nature at Terra Cotta and Island Lake Conservation Areas. We partnered up with Orangeville Public Library, Halton Hills Public Library, Friends of Island Lake and the Women’s Institute to share meaningful stories. Showcasing cultural representation and uplifting messages from a variety of authors, including David Suzuki, you can connect with nature through reading and art.
Storybook panels are on the Wetland Trail for you and your family to discover!
What do we Host?
Over the years, Terra Cotta CA has become known for some spectacular activities.
Home to Maple Syrup
Maple Syrup in the Park and other maple themed experiences happen every March and April. Terra Cotta CA hosts hundreds of people to learn about the history of maple syrup in Canada and how it’s made. You can visit the sugarbush and taste traditional Canadian pure maple syrup with family and friends.
Ignite the Night
When winter comes and the days get shorter, we celebrate on Saturday nights with Ignite the Night by lighting up Terra Cotta Lane with unique displays that invite you in to enjoy extended hours. Grab a warm drink, take a walk and make memories while connecting with the magic of winter in the forest.
Weddings in Nature
Green weddings are on the rise, where Terra Cotta CA has seen many couples take their vows under the forest canopy at the outdoor amphitheater and celebrate afterwards at one of the pavilions. We have wedding packages available for ceremonies and receptions for up to 200 people. Plan your special day with us or refer a friend for a wedding atmosphere that can’t be beat.
Plan Your Next Adventure
Terra Cotta CA is located centrally in the Credit Valley Watershed and is only 20 minutes north of Mississauga. Our Credit Valley Parks Pass program allows for a year of visits to Terra Cotta CA and all Credit Valley Parks! Gain unlimited access to our green spaces and support their protection and well-being.
With so much history and biodiversity, make Terra Cotta CA a must-do day trip this summer!
By Sandy Camplin, Senior Coordinator, Conservation Parks