Niagara Glen Nature Centre

I would have never have suspected such a nice hiking trail given the well manicured park at the top of the escarpment. A very short trail but if you go during off hours, you forget you're in a super touristy area. Trails quite rocky/technical and really unique rock formations for Ontario.

Everyone should hike the trails here at least once, even better in the fall. The lookout fog views in the morning at the upper part were spectacular. The scenery along the way descending to the river was beautiful. The river views were magnificent. The trails are rated moderately challenging, and they definitely are. The Whirlpool trail section was closed due to high water level.

We've done a medium amount of hiking over the years in NY state, and this might be my fave hike so far! The main loop took around 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Visitor center nice, too. Be sure to wear your hiking shoes as there's plenty of up and down and rocky terrain. We arrived around 11am on a holiday weekend and we almost didn't find parking. Thankfully there were just a couple of spots left. It's a metered lot in front.

Very nice scenic trail. To get to the bottom of it and up it’s difficult. I know lots people write easy hike but if you don’t hike on regular basis it’s tough. I saw all ages on the trail but again it depends on your athletic level. Trail is close to the edge of the cliff if you have little children remind to stay off the edge. There’s also long metal stairs that you have to take. But over all enjoyable experience and amazing views. I totally recommend it in the fall with the leaf changing colour. It’s amazing.

A local favourite. Parking and visitor centre are within easy reach of trails.

There are multiple trails to explore. Nature Trail, River Trail, Whirlpool Trail, Boulder Trail, and others all offer a variety of distance, strength, and pacing.

These trails are intended for those aware of risk or understand a variety of trail conditions. Rain, ice, snow, and melt all create hazardous conditions not suitable for young, independent explorers. From November to May the Whirlpool Trail is often closed because of high water conditions on the Niagara River. At no point should you explore or wade into the Niagara River. In fact, several lives have been lost because visitors did not appreciate or understand the risks. If heights scare you be mindful of staircases and ledges.

The natural history and geology of the reserve offers climbers the chance to boulder. In the summer, cool caves and tree cover make a great place to hide from the heat.

Get yourself an annual Niagara Parks Parking Pass ($75 CAD) and enjoy the convenient parking all year. This pass let’s you park in any of the Park’s parking lots for a full year from date of purchase.

The Niagara Glen Nature reserve also is a great place to fish during migration periods (spring & fall). This place is also home to some of the most ancient trees and woodlands in Canada.

Please don’t pollute. Only take photos and leave only a sense of gratitude. This is a national treasure.