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Rattray Marsh Conservation Area: A Lakeside Wetland Haven

Explore Mississauga's Rattray Marsh: A vital lakefront wetland, perfect for birdwatching, nature walks, and enjoying Lake Ontario's beauty.

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Rattray Marsh Conservation Area is a unique natural wetland on Lake Ontario's shoreline in Mississauga. It offers diverse habitats, including a shingle beach and boardwalks, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Preserved after a community battle against development, it's now a cherished green space for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Rattray Marsh Conservation Area

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall migration to witness the greatest variety of bird species.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, as some trails have gravel sections and can be muddy.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Stick to designated trails to protect the sensitive marsh ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Rd W), head west along the Waterfront Trail. The trail is paved and well-marked, leading directly into Rattray Marsh Conservation Area. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views of Lake Ontario. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From the intersection of Lakeshore Rd W and Clarkson Rd S, take any MiWay bus heading west. Exit at the stop closest to Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Rd W). Transfer to the Waterfront Trail and walk west into Rattray Marsh. A single MiWay fare is $4.25 cash or $3.40 with a PRESTO card. The walk from the park entrance is about 15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Mississauga, a taxi or ride-share to the Rattray Marsh Conservation Area (660 Bexhill Rd) will cost approximately $14-20 and take 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that there is no parking at the Bexhill Road entrance; request to be dropped off at Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Rd W) and walk west along the Waterfront Trail into Rattray Marsh.

Unlock the Best of Rattray Marsh Conservation Area

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Discover more about Rattray Marsh Conservation Area

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area, nestled along Mississauga's Lake Ontario shoreline, stands as a testament to community dedication and the preservation of natural spaces. This 94-acre park is one of the last remaining lakefront marshes between Toronto and Burlington. It offers a unique blend of habitats, including a shingle beach, wetlands, and woodlands, providing refuge for diverse plant and animal species. The marsh is named after Major James Rattray, whose estate once encompassed the property. After his death in 1959, the land was slated for development, sparking a 16-year battle led by local residents, most notably Ruth Teverson Hussey, to save the marsh. Their efforts culminated in the official opening of the conservation area in 1975. Today, a stone memorial at the Old Poplar Row entrance honors Hussey's pivotal role. Rattray Marsh is a haven for birdwatchers, as it serves as a stopover for migrating waterfowl and songbirds. The area boasts several well-maintained trails, including the Knoll Trail, Silver Maple Lane, and the Pedestrian Waterfront Trail, offering easy walks and scenic views. The trails are generally easy, making them accessible for all fitness levels. Boardwalks elevate visitors above the delicate marsh environment, providing excellent vantage points for observing wildlife. The conservation area is not only a place of recreation but also an important educational resource. It has been designated as an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest, an Environmentally Significant Area, and a Provincially Significant Wetland. The Rattray Marsh Protection Association (RMPA), formed in 1979, continues to play a vital role in the area's protection and stewardship.

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