Terra Cotta

Length –   6 km

Cross Country track set  – 6  km
Skate Skiing  groomed  – none, some trail is narrow
Snowshoe  trail –  6 +  km

Skill – all levels

Terrain – flat sections, a few short hills, mixed forest

Hours – daily  8 to 6 p.m. (conditions permitting)

Fee – Adult pass $5.31 Adults, Kids $2.65

Trail Map – well signed, maps at junctions

Facilities – parking, chalet, rentals, lessons, snacks, ice skating pond

Highlights – scenic, ponds, Bruce Trail

Phone – 905 877 1120

Website –  Credit Valley C. A.

Current Conditions

Similar Trails –  Seneca, Bendor

Local Clubs –   Halton Outdoor Club, North Toronto Ski Club

Access –  14452 Winston Churchill Blvd., Halton Hills entrance on the westside

Note there are some trails closed for maintenance.

Terra Cotta is a Conservation Area that offers a few trails east of Brampton. Popular with casual skiers, the loops here are relatively short and flat as they circle two ponds and meander through the woods.

There is not a lot here to ski on, yet for beginners there is likely enough. The outer loop is marked as Advanced, though I would rate it more Intermediate for Ontario standards.

Though it is an overall easy ski, some of you may walk the tight quick turns and downs, rather than go for a tumble on this outer loop. Truly these are narrow hiking trails at times repurposed for some skiing (whereas a ski resort has wider paths cut specifically everywhere).

When I was there the chalet was abuzz with outdoor weekenders doing their winter thing. Rentals and a few basic “eats” can be found at the Welcome Centre. There are lessons, night snowshoe hikes and events posted on the park site.

For Snowshoeing, you can follow the ski trails (just don’t stomp on our ski tracks please) and trek beyond this along the Bruce Trail till you’ve had your fill.

If you are a good skier and wish to explore more trail, on the west side a trail continues into Silver Creek C. A.. Let me know if it is skiable as I have not ventured. And south is the beginning of the Caledon Rail Trail going east which though straight and flat, goes on forever.

This location is a good choice for a little variety in your ski life when you need to get out.