Connecting Nature, People and Communities
Immerse yourself in nature by taking a trip to the Upper Credit Conservation Area (Upper Credit). Located in Caledon and Orangeville, this park is home to 400 acres of beautiful rolling meadows. The park comprises over three and half kilometres of the main branch of the Credit River.
It’s a scenic spot to connect with the upper Credit River!
History of Upper Credit Conservation Area
Upper Credit is a recent addition to Credit Valley Conservation’s land holdings.
Beginning with the purchase of the parcel near Alton in 2005, this park has quadrupled with the acquisition of additional lands.
This park is historically tied to three Cultural Heritage Landscapes designated by the Town of Caledon, including the historic Town of Melville and the decommissioned Toronto Grey and Bruce Railway, which now forms part of the trail system.
Past agricultural land uses affected the Credit River in this area. As a result of cattle access, the river channel expanded. This led to the loss of the riverbank and impacted fish habitat. Our Upper Credit Conservation Area Management Plan guided our restoration work, resulting in a rise of fish communities and other wildlife in the area.
Marvel at the Residents
During your visit, you will discover diverse natural environments, such as wetlands, forests and meadows. The park connects large areas of land and water within the Credit River Watershed providing the perfect opportunity for wildlife sightings.
Upper Credit is associated with two Provincially Significant Wetlands and includes a portion of a candidate for an Earth Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest. We have recorded over 700 plants and animal species, including 11 species at risk, that thrive in the park’s habitats.
What Can You See?
With its abundance of meadows, forests and wetlands, several species have been observed in the park including approximately:
- 11 mammal species
- Nine amphibian species
- Five reptile species
- 94 bird species
- 27 fish species
- 348 plant species
What Can You do?
Hike the Credit Valley Trail
Hike the first signed section of the Credit Valley Trail. The Credit Valley Trail will be a 100-kilometre pathway from the along the Credit River Valley.
If you bring your furry friends along, please remember to keep them leashed to protect them and our restoration efforts.
Birding
Bring your binoculars or camera, and maybe a friend to witness the birds that call this park home. You might see a majestic great blue heron near the water’s edge catching fish, frogs or other critters to eat.
Plan Your Trip to Upper Credit
Nestled in the village of Alton, Upper Credit Conservation Area is a perfect way to get outside and embrace the natural wonders of the Credit River Watershed. Plan your visit by checking our park advisories in advance for the latest park updates and maybe visit another park nearby afterwards!
Share your visit with us on by tagging us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.
By Sarah Lebret, Associate, Marketing and Communications