BRAMPTON, ON – Walking outdoors offers endless benefits for your physical and mental health, no matter the time of year. Brampton’s expansive network of recreational trails and green spaces provides residents with an opportunity to connect with nature, stay active and explore the city where they live, work and play.
Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant colours of fall, hearing the crunching snow under your feet in the winter, enjoying the spring blooms or soaking in the summer sun, walking outdoors in Brampton is a year-round adventure you don’t want to miss.
Health and environmental benefits of walking
Walking isn’t just good exercise, it’s a way to improve your mood, alleviate stress and even improve your sleep. Walking to school or work is an excellent way to stay active and unwind, helping improve your overall quality of life.
Walking also contributes to healthier communities. By choosing to walk instead of drive, you help reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and lower carbon emissions. Each small step makes a big difference.
Make walking your next family-friendly activity
Walking can be a fun and educational experience for the family. While exploring local recreational trails together, consider playing a game of I Spy with nature to learn about the plants and wildlife you encounter.
Explore Brampton’s recreational trails and green spaces
Brampton boasts a variety of recreational trails and parks that cater to walkers of all skill levels. Brampton’s recreational trails are open year-round and provide a perfect setting for residents to embrace the beauty of the outdoors, no matter the season.
From the Etobicoke Creek Trail to Claireville Conservation area, Brampton’s outdoor spaces offer something for everyone. For a full list of recreational trails and parks, visit brampton.ca/parks.
Safety tips for walking outdoors
Follow these tips to ensure your walk is a safe and comfortable one:
- Dress for the weather: In colder months, layer up with a warm jacket, hat, gloves and weather-appropriate footwear to stay comfortable. Wear bright or reflective clothing to improve visibility, especially in winter when daylight hours are shorter. In warmer months, choose lightweight, breathable clothing and apply sunscreen to protect against the sun.
- Plan ahead: Allow extra time for snowy or icy conditions during winter walks. Always choose routes that are well-maintained and well-lit.
- Stay alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially near traffic, on slippery surfaces or in areas where wildlife may be present. Stick to marked recreational trails and never approach or feed wildlife, including coyotes. When walking near roads, use marked crossings, follow pedestrian signals and look both ways before crossing.
No matter the season, lace up your shoes, grab a loved one and explore the city on foot. You’ll uncover Brampton’s hidden gems while feeling great along the way.