Dramatic rock cliffs, peaceful walking trails, sandy beaches, and captivating waterfalls. If you want to spend time outdoors, there are so many ways to do it here. Whether you’re up for an active hike or prefer a relaxing afternoon by the waterfront, here’s how to make the most of your time.
Welland Canals Parkway Trail
This route stretches southwards from St. Catharines to Port Colborne along banks of the Welland Canal, perfect for biking, walking and rollerblading. Make time to stop along the way to admire the large ships as they navigate the locks from St. Catharines to Port Colborne.
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
Forested trails that run alongside the Twenty Mile Creek, two captivating waterfalls and an award-winning, environmentally friendly visitors centre that features educational displays about nature, conservation, and the region’s history and geological formation. Because the Twenty Mile Creek is rain-fed, the creek and falls will look different every time you visit. Walk or hike three different trails, ranging from easy to moderate intensity.
Short Hills Provincial Park
Home to white-tailed deer, coyote and tiny meadow vole, keep watch for exciting wildlife sightings in this peaceful park. Trails are open for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, and they’ll lead you through the vibrant ecosystem past waterfalls, winding creeks, and forests. Fishing is permitted as well!
Rockway Conservation Area
Located along the Niagara Escarpment, hike into the Fifteen Mile Creek valley and discover thriving forests of Basswood, Black Walnut, Sugar Maple and Sycamore trees. Catch sight of two spectacular waterfalls, one almost 20 metres high, and follow the river to spot rapids. There are multiple trails for walking or hiking.
Cave Springs Conservation Area
A beautiful natural area with a mystical history – the former owner believed the spring on site to be a fountain of youth. We can’t confirm that, but we know you’ll feel energized spending time immersed in the Carolinian forest and taking in the vistas of Lake Ontario from the top of the Niagara Escarpment. Walk or hike three trails on property, as well as a 200-metre accessible trail and interpretive courtyard.
Niagara Bruce Trail
With over 130 kilometres in the Niagara portion of the Bruce Trail, trails connect with St. Catharines, all four Welland Canals, Short Hills Provincial Park and more. Many parts of the trail lead you past the area’s wineries, farmland, waterfalls and woods. From the elevated escarpment you’ll also get unmatched views of the surrounding vineyards, surrounding communities and Lake Ontario.
Charles Daley Park
With walking paths and a boardwalk, shaded areas for picnics and a playground, plus stunning views of Lake Ontario, this is the perfect spot for some relaxing family time.
Lakeside Park
Grab your beach towel for the 450-metre sandy beach on the shore of Lake Ontario. Beach volleyball courts, a playground, historic Lakeside Park Carousel, snack bar and sheltered and open picnic options are available. Beach mobility mats are in place for accessible access to the waterfront.
Sunset Beach
Situated along the shore of Lake Ontario on the Waterfront Trail, Sunset Beach is near the Welland Canals Trail. This park has 365 metres of sandy beach to enjoy and convenient amenities such as washrooms, parking, a playground, picnic area, and a public boat ramp for small, and personal watercrafts.
Jones Beach
This quiet and peaceful beach is in a protected bay on Lake Ontario, with a picturesque view of the lake and small lighthouse beacon.
Montebello Park
Designed in 1887 by Frederick Law Olmstead, one of the designers of Central Park in New York City, this downtown park contains a pavilion, playground equipment and rose garden, and is the home to numerous signature events and festivals throughout the year.
Malcolmson Eco-Park
Bordered by Lake Ontario to the north and the Welland Canal and Lock One to the east, this park is an urban oasis. Enjoy walking trails and bird watching – you might spot blue jays, mourning doves, and even bald eagles.
Meet a local and learn about the region through a guided tour. Niagara Nature Eco-Tours offer four different themes, including tours for beginner and experienced birders, a woodlands journey with an Indigenous elder who shares her knowledge about native plants, and a photography-focused tour to capture the area’s natural bounty. For wine lovers, there’s a new experience this year: discover wineries on two wheels with a bike rental from eBike the Bench, who can offer suggestions of routes through the heart of wine country and where to stop for tastings and lunch. Niagara Segway Inc also runs guided experiences year-round that explore several areas, including the Welland Canal, Port Dalhousie, and
local wineries.
Golf enthusiasts have 3 fantastic options to choose from: Twenty Valley Golf Course, an 18-hole executive course nestled amidst the beauty of the region, and Rockway Vineyards Golf Course, offering 18 holes of pristine greens. After your round, don’t miss the opportunity to unwind at Patio 19, overlooking the final hole at Rockway, or explore their new wine garden. For those trying to fit in a quick round, the Garden City Golf Course, located in the heart of the city, is a par-60 executive course featuring a licensed clubhouse and patio, putting and chipping greens and practice driving cages.
