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Toronto and Region Conservation Authority introduces Snowshoes and Snow-Clues Program

February 19, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Strap on your snowshoes, Caledon, because this weekend, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is bringing Snowshoes and Snow-Clues to you.

On Saturday, Feb. 21, two sessions will be held at Dicks Dam Park for community members to enjoy a fun winter outing to track and identify signs of local animals, and to discover how they survive the Winter season.

Those in attendance will also be able to try snowshoeing and leave behind their own tracks.

Suzanne Pragg, program manager of Claireville Programs at TRCA, says that the goal of this program, along with all the programs that they run, is to engage people with nature.

“We offer many of our programs free of charge, allowing participants the opportunity to learn a new skill without financial barriers to access. We focused on Caledon because there are great opportunities for programming with fantastic trails, with natural and historical interest. This program creates a bridge into those spaces for residents of Caledon,” she says.

The program this weekend is free and supported by Peel Region.

Pragg notes that connecting to the local natural environment and learning about the species that live there is the start of developing an understanding and appreciation for the land around us.

“Though lots of animals migrate south for the winter to stay warm, many live here year-round, while others migrate here for their wintering grounds. This program provides an opportunity for Caledon residents to discover that an animal’s habitat isn’t that different from our own,” she says.

With the cold weather keeping everyone indoors, Pragg says this is a chance to learn a new skill in the winter.

Those who attend the event will learn the basics and history of snowshoeing, as well as an introduction to Dicks Dam Park and the Humber Valley Heritage Trail, where they will be.

Learning opportunities also include identifying signs of local wildlife. 

“Attendees will leave with an appreciation for local nature, and an understanding of why protecting green space is vital to the health of our communities,” says Pragg.

For those interested in signing up, come prepared to be outside, as this program is fully outdoors.

Dress for the weather, bringing along toques, scarves, and gloves, and water and snacks if needed.

Layers are recommended to allow participants to respond to changes in body temperature, as this is an active program. 

Also, wear winter boots for snowshoeing, and a porta-potty will be available on site.

TRCA also asks that you leave pets at home, except for service animals.

The first session is the Explore Program for ages six and above, and will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Explore Program features beginner-friendly snowshoeing instruction and activities, as well as concepts suitable for all ages.

The second session, titled Nature Program, is for ages 13 and above, and will be from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This program will include a two-kilometre snowshoe route along the Humber Valley Heritage Trail, as well as activities and concepts suitable for all ages.

Snowshoes will be provided, but supplies are limited. TRCA asks that you register with the number of adults, youth, and children attending to reserve a pair of snowshoes for your household.

To register, visit https://calendar.trca.ca/event/snowshoes-and-snow-clues-caledon/

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