Where to Go Tobogganing in Mississauga (Locals Guide)
With the winter season upon us, kids are ready to head outside and enjoy the snow. And what better way to do this, than to plummet down the hills on a toboggan?
With 4 kids, you can just imagine the number of hours that John and I have spent on snowy slopes all over the city.
And considering we have raised our kids in Mississauga, we are pretty qualified to tell you where in the city you can find the best toboggan hills.
So whether you are looking for a family outing, a way to get the kids off their devices and get some fresh air, or just to have some fun with friends, here are the best places to go tobogganing in Mississauga this winter.
If you are short on time, here is a quick list of the 7 public toboggan hills which are maintained by the City of Mississauga.
Growing up, as soon as the snow hit, there was no better way to have some old-fashioned fun than to hit the many toboggan hills. And not much has changed for our kids!
Tobogganing in Mississauga is one of my family’s favourite things to do in the city. It is a great way to get some fresh air, have some fun, and get some exercise.
And it’s FREE!! In fact, we have even taken our toboggan on road trips and incorporated some time on the slopes into our travels.
Always Do a Safety Check BEFORE Tobogganing
Tobogganing is a great way for kids to enjoy the outdoors. But safety is something that parents need to consider before the fun begins.
From checking the hills for any debris to wearing a helmet for the younger kids, safety should be a priority.
In fact, we even recommend going as far as checking the speed on larger hills when younger children are involved.
You can easily test the speeds out first by starting in the middle, before heading all the way to the top.
Where can I Toboggan in Mississauga?
The below-listed hills are available every winter from December to March (weather dependent) for Mississauga residents to enjoy.
The hills are inspected on a regular basis by city of Mississauga staff and are closed if conditions are deemed to be unsafe.
Unfortunately, park staff do not maintain locations outside of these designated hills.
So if you decide to toboggan or sled on any other hills in the city, it will be your responsibility to make sure it is safe first.
17 of the Best Tobogganing Hills in Mississauga
The following is a list of all the best places to go tobogganing in Mississauga. The list contains locations that are both maintained by the city and others that are just fun local gems.
❄️ Applewood Heights Secondary School – 945 Bloor Street
Look for the hill behind the school. Actually part of the Bloor Athletic Field, the hill is pretty wide, so there is a ton of space.
Parking is available at the school.
❄️ Birchwood Park – 1547 Lakeshore Road West
This is one of the best places to go tobogganing in Mississauga for older kids and adults too! The hill is huge, so expect a good workout!
The slope on the hill is pretty steep so you can expect to pick up some good speed.
However, as one of the city-run hills, hay bales are put out every winter to prevent kids from crashing into the trees.
Plenty of parking is available.
❄️ Bristol Road Middle School – 210 Bristol Rd East
Has a decent-sized hill, with plenty of parking at the school.
❄️ Brookmede Park – 2254 Council Ring Road
This park is more for the younger children in your family. The hill is on the smaller side with plenty of space to slow down at the end.
❄️ Castlegreen Meadows – 2829 Castlebridge Drive
This hill is located behind the school. And although the hill is long, it isn’t incredibly steep, making it perfect for younger kids.
❄️ Cawthra Park Secondary School – 1305 Cawthra Road
You will find a smaller hill near the entrance of the pool. There is plenty of parking at the school.
❄️ Cedarbrae Park – 565 Lolita Gardens
You will find a large hill with a gentle slope. Perfect for younger kids.
Some parking can be found on the street or at nearby Silver Creek Public School.
❄️ Danville Park – 6525 Danville Road
Danville Park is a little out of the way, given that it is located in an industrial area. That said, there is plenty of parking, and the hill is only a short walk from the lot.
The hill is a decent size, with the added bonus of being able to watch the planes as they take off and land at Pearson Airport.
❄️ Ellengale Public School – 3480 Ellengale Drive
Located in the McBride and Credit Woodlands Area. You will find a small but steep hill behind Ellengale Public School (actually in Woodlands Park).
Plenty of parking can be found at the school.
❄️ Erindale Park – 1695 Dundas Street West
As one of the city’s largest and best parks to explore, Erindale is also one of our favourite places to go tobogganing in Mississauga.
The hill is pretty long, and you are able to get some good speed.
Because the hill is quite large, it doesn’t often feel crowded.
And if you need a break from tobogganing, Erindale has an awesome trail system and plenty of areas to spread out, so it’s the perfect place to walk and enjoy the winter scenery.
There is plenty of parking at Erindale, with many spots close to the hill. And as an added bonus, there are public washrooms available.
❄️ Gatineau Green Park – 114 Falconer Drive
Gatineau Green has multiple hills available for tobogganing. The hills are on the small side, perfect for younger kids, but you can use all sides of the hill.
The easiest way to access the hills is to park on Falconer Drive and walk down the path from there. You could also access the park from Bow River Crescent.
❄️ Green Glade Sr. Public School – 1550 Green Glade
You will find a good-sized hill with a gentle slope located behind the school. You will also find plenty of parking at the school.
❄️ Jack Darling Memorial Park – 1180 Lakeshore Road West
Jack Darling has a large city-maintained toboggan hill located near the north entrance of the park.
The parking lot closest to the hill would be Lot-D.
This park is popular, so expect there to be a lot of kids.
❄️ St. Bernard of Clairvaux – 3345 Escada Drive
You will find a small hill with a gentle slope right next to the school.
There is also plenty of parking in the school lot.
❄️ St. Helen Separate School – 1325 Bodley Road
You will find a decent-sized hill behind the school.
You will also find more than enough parking at this location.
❄️ Union Park – 6627 Tenth Line West
There are 2 very wide hills at this park. Although they are not very long, you can get some decent speed on them. Our kids love this park.
There is plenty of parking located at Plum Tree Park School next to Union Park or at St. John of the Cross School across the street.
Union Park is also home to 2 outdoor ice rinks. They are not huge, but perfect for a quick family skate.
❄️ Vic Johnson Community Centre – 335 Church Street
One of the best places to go tobogganing in Mississauga is Vic Johnson Community Centre.
This park offers a variety of slopes and is large enough to accommodate hundreds of kids without feeling crowded.
The smaller hill can be found off the arena. The slope is gentle enough for small kids.
If you are looking for more of a workout, head to the side of the hill that opens up to the ballpark.
This hill is wide and steep enough for the bravest thrill seeker in your family. We have spent countless hours over the years in this particular park.
Where to Go Tobogganing Near Mississauga
If you have tried out all the awesome places to go tobogganing in Mississauga, and are looking for new spots, you don’t have to go far. There are a ton of great toboggan hills less than 30 minutes from Mississauga.
Brampton
Caledon
Oakville
Burlington
Milton
What is the Difference Between a Sled and a Toboggan?
Nowadays, kids will race down the snowy hills on a variety of different contraptions. From Magic Carpets to round Flying Saucers, inflatable Snow Tubes, foam sleds, plastic toboggans, and snow racers. You will see it all!
But ever wonder what the difference is between a sled and a toboggan? The answer is quite simple.
A traditional toboggan is a long wooden sled with the front end curled upwards and is flat on the bottom. The whole bottom of a toboggan will make contact with the snow.
Toboggans can be pulled across the snow with a rope, and are used by kids of all ages to go flying down hills in the winter.
A sled, on the other hand, is small and light, with runners on the bottom. The runners are the only part of the sled that makes contact with the snow.
Nowadays, you will mainly see sleds used for younger children. Parents will use them to pull toddlers across snow or ice, and maybe on very gentle slopes.
European kids, however, are more likely to use wooden sleds when rocketing down the snowy slopes.
Sledding and Tobogganing Tips
Canadian winters can be harsh. So when heading out for a day of snowy fun on the hills, it’s best to be prepared.
1. Dress Appropriately
Dressing in layers is always best. Although it may be cold outside, walking up the hills can be a lot of work.
And while you will want to wear a hat and gloves, long scarves or anything with a drawstring should be avoided.
2. Check for Hazards
Before you head out on the hills, be sure to check the area for hazards. Any rocks and twigs can be removed, while bare spots without snow, icy patches, and even trees, should be avoided.
Kids should also avoid tobogganing near roadways, fences, or lakes and streams. And as much fun as it may be, it’s never a good idea to go down a hill head first.
3. Don’t Toboggan on Icy Days
Icy slopes and toboggans are usually not a great combination. Not only is it much more difficult to control your sled or toboggan, but a fall on the ice can lead to some pretty serious injuries.
4. Wear a Helmet
And speaking of injuries, it’s always a good idea for younger children to wear a helmet when tobogganing.
Parents should also supervise the kids at all times. But that doesn’t mean they have to stand around and watch. Why not join in on the fun?
Tobogganing isn’t just for kids!
5. Use a Proper Toboggan or Sled
Use a proper sled or toboggan and check your equipment before using it. Nowadays toboggans and sleds are pretty inexpensive and can be readily found.
Proper equipment will be safer, and more comfortable while offering the rider some control. There is no longer the need to try out cardboard boxes or garbage bags!
What to Bring Sledding or Tobogganing
So as we mentioned, it really is important to have the proper gear and appropriate clothing when hitting the hills for some snowy fun. After all, nothing is going to take the fun out of your day faster, than if you are wet and cold, and your sled breaks down.
Gear
- Youth Ski Helmet – Definitely recommended!
- Toboggan – This is pretty much the one I had growing up. Very sturdy!
- Sled – Age-appropriate size
- Water Bottle – You will be working hard, so staying hydrated is important.
- Snacks – Again, you will be working up an appetite. Healthy but fun snacks will keep the kids outdoors and on the hills longer.
Clothing
- Parka – Warm enough for the conditions and without drawstrings that could get caught places.
- Snowpants – Always a must when playing in the snow.
- Mittens – Mittens will keep fingers warmer than gloves. Make sure that they are waterproof!
- Neck Gator – Much safer than a scarf. No chance of it getting caught on the way down the hill. Buff is our go-to brand for neck gators. The merino wool is really soft and warm!
- Winter Hat – A definite must. Most of a kid’s body heat escapes through their head.
- Waterproof Boots – Keep toes from freezing. Definitely choose a waterproof pair.
Best Places to Go for Hot Chocolate in Mississauga
After an afternoon on the snowy slopes, nothing is better than warming up to a great cup of hot chocolate.
And no matter where you choose to go tobogganing in Mississauga, we can almost guarantee, that you will find an awesome spot to get that steaming cup of deliciousness!
We have put together a short list of a few of our favourite spots to indulge in that sweet winter treat.
And let me just say, these places do not serve up just your average cup of cocoa!
1. LaDiperie Streetsville
If you have spent the afternoon tobogganing at Vic Johnson Community Centre, then you need to head to LaDiperie in Streetsville for one of their fabulous hot chocolates!
Located right across from the Cenotaph, LaDiperie also serves up some yummy mini donuts, cake, and some of the best ice cream in Mississauga!
Their 10oz hot chocolate has a dipped rim, is slathered in whipped cream and finished off with caramel and other toppings. This hot chocolate (the kid’s fave) is a dessert all on its own!
2. Dunk’n Dip
If you were enjoying a day of tobogganing in the south end of Mississauga, like at Jack Darling Park or at Birchwood Park, then you will need to head to Dunk’n Dip for the creamiest hot chocolate you will ever taste!
Every hot chocolate starts with creamy melted Belgian chocolate and milk.
You can then add whipped cream, marshmallows, crunchy waffle bites or chocolate pearls for a customized drink. I have a sweet tooth, so I usually add them all!
3. D Spot Cafe
With a few locations in the Mississauga area available, the D Spot Cafe is a wonderful place to grab a hot chocolate after a day on the snowy slopes.
From the classic hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and marshmallows to something a little more creative, your sweet cravings will be instantly satisfied.
We recommend their delicious Nutella hot chocolate. But their Lotus Cookie Butter hot chocolate also sounds like it may be worth a try!
☕ See the full list of where to find the best Hot Chocolate in Mississauga here.
Tobogganing in Mississauga FAQs
Sometimes. There are actually a few cities in Canada that have put full bans on tobogganing on city property, including Hamilton, Ont. Other cities, however, have only enacted bylaws restricting tobogganing to certain hills.
For the most part, yes. Many cities, like Mississauga and Toronto, actually have designated tobogganing hills that are inspected regularly to ensure safe conditions. Young children should wear a properly fitted helmet and be supervised by an adult.
January is the coldest month of the year in Mississauga. With an average low of -7°C and high of -1°C, it can get quite cold, especially since those numbers don’t reflect a windchill!
On average, there are 58.5 snowfall days in Mississauga per year. This equals roughly 403mm (15.87″) of accumulated.
Yes! In general, two to four inches of snow is the minimum amount needed to go sledding. Of course, factors like snow consistency, type of terrain, steepness of the sledding hill, and style of the sled, will also come into play.
Snow tubing is like the supersized version of tobogganing. Snow tubing involves plummeting down a smooth, snow-packed track with the added bonus of spinning in an inner tube.
No. Studies have actually found that more severe injuries were more likely to occur while on a snow tube compared to a toboggan or sled. This is most likely due to the increased speed, and icy tracks found at tubing parks.
Final Thoughts
With all the incredible places available to go tobogganing in Mississauga, there really is no excuse not to go out and make the most of the winter season.
So bundle up, grab a toboggan (or sled!), and hit the hills!
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