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Stay active for Winter Walk Month this February

The City is encouraging students to stay active by walking to school or the bus stop this winter.

City services | January 30, 2025

Lace up your boots, zip up your jackets and get active! The City of Mississauga is celebrating Winter Walk Month and is encouraging students and their families to walk to school or the bus stop. For those who live further from your school, you can still make a positive impact by parking five minutes away and walking the rest.

Walking to school in the winter has benefits

Walking not only enhances your physical and mental health, but also helps create a safer environment for school zones. Choosing to walk over driving also lowers carbon emissions, promoting a healthier environment for our community.

Winter walks can offer you some unique experiences, such as listening to the sound of snow crunching under your boots, spotting animal footprints in the snow, admiring snow and icicles on trees and houses, and feeling your body warming up as you move.

Students and parents walking on trail in the winter to school.

Not a student?

Don’t let winter blues get to you. Stepping out for a winter walk can have many benefits for your physical and mental health. It can help improve your fitness, reduce stress and improve your mood and sleep. It’s also a great way to get outside and socialize with your family and friends, discover new places and increase your energy levels. Whether you’re at work, school or running errands, try incorporating more outdoor activities into your routine. It could be as simple as walking around your neighbourhood, making trips to the nearby park or exploring new trails in Mississauga.

Find a park or trail near you.

Person walking on trail during the winter.

Winter road safety reminders

If you’re walking, remember to:

  • Dress warmly to stay comfortable.
  • Choose a walking or school route that’s clear of ice and snow.
  • Be alert – Stay cautious crossing the road especially around large snowbanks.
  • Cross the road at a designated crossing and/or with a crossing guard when possible.
  • When taking the bus, maintain a safe distance from the curb and wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before boarding.

If you’re biking, remember to:

  • Dress in layers so you can remove them as you warm up.
  • Avoid puddles or ice patches.
  • Be cautious when riding on metal bridges and roadways with paint markings as they can be slippery.
  • Make sure you wear a helmet, and use lights and reflectors on your bike if you’re riding at night.

If you’re dropping someone off at school or work, remember to:

  • Leave earlier to give yourself extra time.
  • Clear your car of snow and ice.
  • Drive the posted speed limit or according to road conditions.
  • Slow down in school zones. Be alert as there can be a lot of traffic in school zone areas.
  • During snow-clearing operations, give plows and equipment space to work.
  • Obey flashing lights and stop signs on school buses.
  • Use your school’s Kiss and Ride program, and only park where allowed.

Visit mississauga.ca/schoolroutes to access custom maps to plan a safe and active route to school.

Learn more about Region of Peel’s Winter Walk Month.

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City of Mississauga Media Relations
media@mississauga.ca
905-615-3200, ext. 5232
TTY: 905-896-5151