Cold Creek Conservation Area

Located in the north east section of Bolton about 4 minutes north on Concession Road 11, Cold Creek Conservation Area can be easily accessed from King Road near Bolton or Nobleton, Ontario. It is a 190 hectares area that contains many different plant and wildlife species. There are plenty of birding opportunities!

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The gates are open from 8:30 to 4:30 Monday to Saturday. If the gates are open you can drive up the road and park at the Visitor’s Centre. If the gates are closed (or even if they are open) you can park in the driveway leading up to the gates. The driveway is long enough that 20 cars or more, could possibly park on both sides. Even though there are gates, there is no entrance fee to get onto the grounds.

There are 8 interconnected trails that can be traversed throughout the grounds with the whole outer loop of the trail system being 6.6 km long. The trails go through a mixture of different tree types, a bog, a low-lying flood plain, and skirt a small lake. There are quite a few informative signs throughout the grounds that identify the different tree types and, on the days they are open, there is generally someone in either of the centers to answer any questions you have and to help you.

The trails are generally quiet, especially on the weekdays. On the weekends they see more use with nature hikers and dog-walkers. Occasionally there will be a special event happening at the visitor and education centers, and at those times the grounds will be especially busy. But, even with a large number of people that show for the special events, they generally congregate around the Visitor/Education Centres and the trails are usually still quiet. I know I have walked the trails for over four hours early in the morning and not seen a single person. On most mornings the only sound you will hear is the wind through the trees and the sounds of bird calls.

Cold Creek Conservation Area is environmentally sensitive and not a park, it is especially important the rule of “leave nothing but footprints; take nothing but pictures” is adhered to.

Winter at Cold Creek

With over six kilometres of trails, Cold Creek offers a wonderful opportunity to stay healthy and enjoy the winter months. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing are two of the best ways to beat the winter blues. Just keep in mind that some trails are groomed exclusively for cross-country skiing. If one decides to snowshoe on the same trail, stick to the edge of the path to not disturb the groomed trail. Ski and Snowshoe Equipment rentals are available! A portable washroom is provided at the Visitor Centre Parking Lot.

What to expect at Cold Creek:

Trails are generally easy except for two that have a small to moderate hill to climb.
There are two portable washrooms on site at the visitor center during Spring, Summer, and Fall. During the Winter Months, a portable washroom is located at the Visitor Centre Parking Lot.
Parking is either at the gate or if the gates are open, at the Visitor Centre or the grass parking lot in front of the Education Centre.