Complete Travel Guide to Pickering, Canada

Pickering Pickering is a city located in Southern Ontario, Canada, immediately east of Toronto in Durham Region. Positioned at coordinates 43.90012°N, -79.13289°E, Pickering occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Pickering place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 217.0 meters above sea level, Pickering benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Pickering creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 91771 residents, Pickering maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Pickering represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Pickering reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Ontario province, Pickering contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Pickering in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Pickering discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Pickering

History #Early period The present-day Pickering was Aboriginal territory for thousands of years The Wyandot (called the Huron by Europeans), who spoke an Iroquoian language, were the historical people living here in the 15th century Archeological remains of a large village have been found here, known as the Draper Site.

Later, the Wyandot moved northwest to Georgian Bay, where they established their historic homeland There they encountered French explorers in the early 17th century, followed by missionaries and fur traders The first recorded history of this area was made in 1669, when the French Jesuit missionary François de Salignac de la Mothe-Fénelon noted reaching what he called the Seneca (more likely the Onondaga) village of Gandatsetiagon, on the shores of Frenchman's Bay (for whom it would be named).

The Onondaga (and the Seneca) were among the Five Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy The Onondaga (and other Iroquois) generally occupied territory to the south and west of Lakes Ontario and Erie in present-day New York that extended into Pennsylvania and the Ohio Valley, where they maintained hunting grounds.

(The Seneca were located farther west, near Seneca Lake, among the Finger Lakes Fenelon wintered at the village and started missionary work with this people ) #Township of Pickering 1802 map of the Pickering Township The British took over Canada in 1763 following defeat of the French in the Seven Years' War, known in Colonial America as the French and Indian War.

They likely completed survey of the township about 1776 British colonial settlers were steadily migrating into the area from eastern areas of Canada There is some controversy over the identity of the earliest European settler in the area One of the candidates is Mike Duffin, who settled in what later became the Pickering Village (now in Ajax), possibly in the 1770s.

The other candidate is Benjamin Wilson of Vermont, who probably lived in Pickering for sometime, before moving to Whitby in 1794 In the 1780s, the present-day Pickering area was a part of the Nassau District of the Province of Quebec In 1791, Augustus Jones undertook a survey of the area, establishing the baseline and some of the concessions.

The same year, the District was transferred to the newly created province of Upper Canada In 1792, the district was renamed Home District, and Pickering was established as a township The township was originally called "Edinburgh" but in 1792 was renamed after Pickering, North Yorkshire.

Pickering Village, now part of Ajax, emerged as the major population and commercial centre of the Pickering Township in the early 19th century The conversion of a local trail into the Kingston Road in 1799 contributed greatly to the increased settlement in the area.

In 1807, Quakers led by Timothy Rogers settled in the area, and by 1809, the population of Pickering Township consisted of 180 people, most of whom lived along the Duffins Creek.

The historical trajectory of Pickering demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Pickering reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Pickering remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Pickering territory (red) within Durham Region The city covers an area of 231 square kilometres (89 sq mi) with an elevation of 89 metres (292 ft). Toronto, Markham, and Rouge Park border Pickering on the west; Ajax and Whitby border Pickering on the east; Uxbridge is to the north; and Lake Ontario forms Pickering's southern boundary. #Communities The southern part of the city is mainly suburban, with industrial areas restricted to the area around Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. Most of the suburban areas were built as subdivisions after World War II, starting in the area around Frenchman's Bay. Prior to the war, the few suburban areas in the township were the communities of Dunbarton, Fairport Beach, Liverpool Market, and Rouge Hill. Squires Beach, located by the lake shore in the southeast part of the city, is now a ghost town as the area was cleared from 1966 to make way for the construction of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. The only home standing in Squires Beach was built by Timothy Rogers in 1842 and relocated to Montgomery Park Road. Squires Beach Road is now cut off from the lake by a waste water treatment plant. The northern part of the municipality is mainly rural, primarily used for agricultural purposes. However, a number of residential developments are found in this area, and the locally controversial Seaton area also falls within this part of the city. The primary rural communities in Pickering are Claremont, Brougham, and Whitevale; a number of smaller communities exist throughout northern Pickering, such as Greenwood. John Diefenbaker, a Prime Minister of Canada, lived in Greenwood for a number of years. The abandoned ghost town of Altona is located there. Cherrywood, another hamlet in Pickering, is one of the few areas that are protected within the Greenbelt. The communities of Kinsale in the northeast and Green River on the York-Durham town line are other small communities in Pickering, with a population each of between 50 and 100 people. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Pickering, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Most of these communities were founded in the 1700s and 1800s and have churches and historic estates that have been restored through government funding. Dixie is a small rural community situated in rural Pickering, with more contemporary buildings. The film industry has been very active in communities such as Whitevale, since the 1980s, due to the quality of the historical buildings and untouched nature of the landscape. The television shows _Hannibal_ (2013–2015) _Suits_ (2011–2019), and _American Gods_ (2017) have filmed extensively in Whitevale and in other locations in Pickering. Nautical Village is located at Frenchman's Bay and features entertainment, a playground, a boardwalk, restaurants, shops and an art gallery. * Cherrywood * Whitevale Craftworks Store * Green River * Country road to Greenwood Interactive map of Pickering's urban neighbourhoods The city is divided into following neighbourhoods: * South Urban Pickering * Ro. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Pickering, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities.

The topographic characteristics of Pickering result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Pickering region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Pickering area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Pickering has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Pickering demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Pickering create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

The climatic regime of Pickering reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Pickering create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Pickering determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Pickering create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Pickering demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Pickering include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Historical populationsYearPop. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1813180— 198137,754+20874. 4% 199168,831+82. 3% 199678,989+14. 8% 200187,139+10. 1% In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Pickering had a population of 99,186 living in 33,425 of its 34,327 total private dwellings, a change of 8. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1% from its 2016 population of 91,771. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 231. 2 sq mi), it had a population density of 429. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6/sq mi) in 2021. The city has estimated that by 2031, Pickering will be home to 131,608 residents. 5% of the population was under 15 years of age, and 16. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6% was 65 years and over. The median age in Pickering was 40. Immigrants made up 36. 3% of the population in 2021. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. The top places of birth of the immigrant population were India (11. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2%), Sri Lanka (8. 2%), Pakistan (7. 9%), Philippines (7. 2%), the United Kingdom (7. 6%), Trinidad and Tobago (3. 7%), Bangladesh (2. 5%), Afghanistan (2. 4%), and the United States (1. The median total income of households in 2020 for Pickering was $118,000. #Ethnicity As per the 2021 census, the most common ethnic origins in Pickering are English (14. 5%), Scottish (11. 0%), Canadian (10. 0%), Jamaican (4. 3%), Filipino (4. 9%), British Isles (3. 6%), Pakistani (3. 5%), Sri Lankan (3. 3%), and French (3. Indigenous people made up 1. 1% of the population, mostly First Nations (0. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 5%) and Métis (0. Panethnic groups in the City of Pickering (2001−2021) Panethnic group 2021 2016 2011 2006 2001 Pop. % European[a] 46,395 47. 07% South Asian 20,890 21. 01% African 11,275 11. 31% Southeast Asian[b] 5,585 5. 36% Middle Eastern[c] 3,700 3. 17% East Asian[d] 3,690 3. 86% Latin American 1,500 1. 76% Indigenous 1,065 1. 5% Other[e] 5,405 5. 98% Total responses 98,585 99. 48% Total population 99,186 100% 91,771 100% 88,721 100% 87,838 100% 87,139 100% * Note: Totals greater than 100% due to multiple origin responses. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. #Religion In 2021, 53. 7% of the population identified as Christian, with Catholics (25. The demographic composition of Pickering reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7%) making up the largest denomination, followed by Anglican (3. 9%), Orthodox (3. 8%), United Church (3. 0%), and other denominations.

In popular culture #Film * The 1957 CBC/Hollywood production of the classic television show Hawkeye and the Last of the Mohicans was filmed in Pickering. A farm at the corner of Valley Farm Rd. and 3rd Concession, owned by Arthur Gottlieb, was the setting for the 25-episode series. * The 1979 film The Black Stallion was shot at a farm on Sideline 34 in north Pickering near Altona. * The Canadian television show Paradise Falls ’ first season was filmed in the village of Whitevale, as was David Cronenberg’s film The Dead Zone. * The 1994 comedy The Ref , with Denis Leary and Kevin Spacey, was filmed in part at Port Pickering Marina, on Frenchman’s Bay. * The 1995 family/adventure film Salt Water Moose , starring Timothy Dalton and Lolita Davidovitch, was filmed in and around Frenchman’s Bay. * The 1998 comedy/action film The Big Hit , with Mark Wahlberg, Lou Diamond Phillips, Avery Brooks, Christina Applegate and Elliott Gould, was partly filmed in Pickering near Petticoat Creek. [citation needed] * The 2003 two-part mini-series Lives of the Saints , based on Nino Ricci’s award-winning trilogy co-starring Sophia Loren, filmed scenes on a farm just north of Pickering. * Pickering Museum Village has been used as a setting in Road to Avonlea , Little Men , and the films Anne of Green Gables and Lantern Hill. * The final scene in Boondock Saints 2: All Saints’ Day was filmed in Pickering. #TV * A television adaptation of Jack Reacher was partially filmed in North Pickering 1. “What’s Going on Here: More filming of ‘Jack Reacher’ planned for north Pickering”.

The cultural landscape of Pickering represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Pickering reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Pickering continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Pickering provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Pickering demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Pickering provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Pickering is home to the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, an eight- reactor facility with a capacity of 4,120 megawatts. The first station, Pickering A, opened with four reactors in 1971. Ontario Power Generation, the plants' operator, is the largest single employer in the city. In 2001, the wind-powered OPG 7 Commemorative Turbine was opened on the generating station site. The nuclear power plant is expected to start decommissioning in 2024. A number of manufacturers are also located in the city. Major employers include Yorkville Sound (audio equipment), the Canadian headquarters of Purdue Pharma (pharmaceuticals and health & beauty products), Hubbell Canada (electrical equipment), PSB Speakers – Lenbrook (stereo equipment) and Eco-Tec Inc. (industrial water purification and chemical recovery systems). [_citation needed_] Pickering is a founding member of the Durham Strategic Energy Alliance or DSEA. The nucleus of the DSEA is primarily Pickering businesses, such as Ontario Power Generation, Veridian, Siemens/Trench, Tetra Tech WEI, AECL, Intellimeter, Areva and Eco-Tec Inc. [_citation needed_] Other notable organizations with headquarters in Pickering include: Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. MPAC performs value assessment for property tax purposes for all municipalities in Ontario. In 2012 Search Engine People, Canada's largest Internet-marketing company, moved to Pickering's downtown. The International Institute of Business Analysis is also headquartered in Pickering. In 2013, the Region of Durham released its Business Count (Employment Survey), which indicated that Pickering has the most jobs amongst Durham Region municipalities, with 29,000+ positions. This figure represents a near 1/3 ratio of jobs to residents. [_citation needed_] With the implementation of Seaton and downtown intensification, the Province of Ontario's planning anticipates the creation of 40,000 new jobs for Pickering over the next two decades. [_citation needed_] Pickering has planned a downtown intensification program, which includes new condominium developments around the Pickering GO station and Pickering Town Centre. Pickering Town Centre is a two-story mall located in Pickering. An enclosed pedestrian bridge constructed over the 14 lanes of highway 401 was a recent development that has contributed to Pickering's push for more density downtown. The project Durham Live in south Pickering received approval for construction in 2017. It will include a water park, film studio, five star hotel, performing arts theater and possibly a casino. "Ontario Power Generation – Pickering Nuclear". Retrieved 21 March 2018. International Institute of Business Analysis. Retrieved 15 June 2022. "Downtown Intensification Study". _City of Pickering_. Archived from the original on 26 March 2013. Retrieved 17 November 2018. "Downtown Pickering Intensification Study – Urban Strategie.

The economic structure of Pickering reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Pickering often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Pickering serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Pickering demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Pickering has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Pickering focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Highway 401 in Pickering Transit service began in Pickering with the Bay Shores dial-a-bus, which began in 1970–1973. In 2001 Pickering Transit merged with former Ajax Transit to form the Ajax-Pickering Transit Authority (APTA). In 2006, the regional transit system Durham Region Transit took over operations in the Durham Regional Municipality. The Pickering GO station offers public rail transit on an east–west axis. In 2012, Pickering’s landmark bridge opened – connecting the Pickering GO station to the city’s downtown core. Durham Regional Roads serve the city, north and south. Highway 401 runs near the south end of Pickering and Highway 407 ETR runs through the mid-north of the city. Pickering Airport was a planned second major airport for the Greater Toronto Area. Lands were expropriated in north Pickering in 1972 but the plan was stopped. As of 2021, no firm plans for the airport exist. [citation needed].

Transportation infrastructure serving Pickering reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Pickering.

Regional connectivity from Pickering provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Pickering is served by the Durham District School Board, the Durham Catholic District School Board, the Conseil scolaire Viamonde and the Conseil scolaire de district catholique Centre-Sud. As of early 2007, the public board operates 17 elementary schools and two secondary schools, Dunbarton High School and Pine Ridge Secondary School (Pickering High School was previously located in Pickering, but was transferred to Ajax when the city boundaries were changed). The Catholic board runs eight elementary schools and one secondary school, Saint Mary Catholic Secondary School. The French public school board operates École Ronald-Marion, which serves both elementary and secondary students. Blaisdale Montessori School, a private school chain, has several locations throughout Pickering serving children from preschool age to grade 8. There is also a private elementary and junior high school there called Montessori Learning Centre. Also serving the Durham Region is Durham Secondary Academy and Middle School, an inspected private high school and middle school for grades 5 to 12. In September 2012, the Durham College/Centennial College Joint Learning Site opened at the north terminus of the pedestrian bridge. The Joint Learning Site offers primarily graduate certificate programs, with a number of complementary courses and classes. At the time of its opening, it was the only public post- secondary institution in the Province of Ontario with a direct connection to public transit.

Educational institutions in Pickering serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Pickering

Successful visits to Pickering require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Pickering often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Pickering include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Pickering extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.