Parks and trails open for winter use in Halton Hills

While the latest COVID-19 restrictions have impacted the lives of many Halton residents, there are still safe and fun ways to spend time outdoors amid the pandemic.

The Town of Halton Hills is reminding residents that parks and trails, which remain open, are a great way to safely participate in winter recreation experiences in the community.

“In line with public health guidelines we’re happy to offer opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors this winter,” said Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette.

“These opportunities are a great way to stay local and discover your community while keeping physically and mentally active.”

While the trails in Halton Hills are not groomed or maintained during winter, they remain open for use.

The Town’s outdoor rinks at Fairgrounds Park in Georgetown and Acton’s Prospect Park also remain open.

Residents are encouraged to enjoy outdoor exercise on the rinks but are reminded to physically distance and share the ice so everyone gets a chance to skate.

One hour skate sessions with a 30 person capacity begin on the hour and will be monitored at peak times.

Residents are reminded that game play is not allowed.

The Town also supports community volunteers to create rinks at suitable locations and are encouraged to contact the municipality if they wish to create a rink or help out with an existing one.

The Town would also like to remind residents to stay off local stormwater ponds as these bodies of water are not safe despite how they may look.

Due to stormwater ponds being part of the Town’s drainage infrastructure, water flow and water levels can fluctuate quickly without warning so children should be advised not to play near stormwater ponds and that these ice surfaces are unsafe for skating.

The Town maintains two toboggan hills at Cedarvale Park and Sir Donald Mann Park.

For those who prefer to stay indoors, the Active Easy webpage has virtual and online programming for keeping active in the comfort of your home.

Residents are reminded that the current gathering limit for outdoor activities under the Provincewide Stay at home order is 5 people and that physical distancing still applies.

Please follow all current health protocols and enjoy activities responsibly.

General park areas are not maintained in winter, so it is important to dress appropriately for winter conditions.

Additionally, if there are no garbage cans nearby, residents are asked to take their garbage with them.