The Best Hiking Trails in Hamilton
Hamilton is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of hiking trails that cater to all levels of difficulty and interest. From secluded natural escapes to historic railway paths, there's something for everyone to explore in Hamilton.
Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for a challenging adventure or a nature lover looking for a peaceful stroll, the trails in Hamilton have something to offer. From the scenic Niagara Escarpment to the tranquil Royal Botanical Gardens, the hiking trails in Hamilton showcase the best of what the city has to offer.
In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through some of the best hiking trails in Hamilton. We’ll explore the history, natural beauty, and unique features of each trail and provide you with all the information you need to plan your next hiking adventure.
Lace-up those hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience as we explore the best hiking trails in Hamilton, Ontario.
Billy Monkley Bird Sanctuary (Mt. Albion Trail)
The Billy Monkley Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Hamilton. So hidden in fact, that you might have trouble finding it on Google Maps. Heck, even when we pulled into the parking lot, we had doubts that we were in the right spot. There are NO signs to indicate it’s home to a bird sanctuary, walking trails, or a secret waterfall, but it most certainly is!
Follow the narrow path from the parking lot right to the Billy Monkley Cascades. These are considered to be the smallest waterfalls in Hamilton. Continue on the Mt. Albion Trail through the prairie plateau and try to spot some migrating birds.
The trail is short yet scenic. It can get very muddy in the spring or after a rainfall, so be sure to bring your toughest boots! Combine your visit with Mt. Albion Falls or the Chippewa Trail across the street.
Free Entry: Yes
Location: Dartnall Road, between Stone Church & Rymal
2. Bruce Trail
The Bruce Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Hamilton, and all of Canada for that matter. It follows the edge of the Niagara Escarpment (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) and connects the Niagara River with the tip of the Bruce Peninsula. In total, it’s over 900 km long – making it one of Canada’s longest hiking trails too! The Bruce Trail can be found in numerous cities and municipalities across Southern Ontario, including Hamilton.
Many of the trails found throughout Hamilton (and on this list) connect with the Bruce Trail in some shape or form. This is no surprise considering there is over 400 km of side trails leading from the Bruce.
My favorite section of the Bruce Trail in Hamilton is the Felker’s to Albion Falls Route, which is about a 10km hike roundtrip. As the name would suggest, this trail showcases some of the best waterfalls in Hamilton. You can hike along the edge of the escarpment, enjoy a scenic view of downtown Hamilton and visit Felker’s Falls, Glendale Falls, Albion Falls, and Buttermilk Falls along the way.
Check out the official Bruce Trail Felker’s to Albion Falls map for more information.
Free Entry: Yes
Locations: Numerous access points, including the Felker’s Falls Parking Lot or Paramount Park
3. Chedoke Radial Trail
Although it’s technically another section of the Bruce Trail, the Chedoke Radial Trail deserves its own spot on this list due to its gorgeous scenery and interesting past. As its name suggests, this trail follows the former Brantford and Hamilton Electric Railroad that was opened up in 1907. Unfortunately, the rail service was only in use for about 25 years before being discounted due to a lack of demand. And 60 years later, it became the beautiful trail that we Hamiltonians have come to love!
This 2.7km trail travels from the Chedoke Golf Course on Aberdeen to the Iroquoia Heights Conservation Area near Ancaster. While walking along the edge of the escarpment, you can enjoy the sweeping views of Dundas Valley below and stop to visit one of the many waterfalls in the area, like Mountainview Falls – my personal favorite!
The trail is technically wheelchair accessible, but it’s really steep in some parts. Take it slow and enjoy the view.
Free Entry: Yes
Location: Accessible via the Chedoke Golf Club Parking Lot or Chedoke Radial Trail Parking Lot on Scenic Drive
4. Chippewa Trail
The Chippewa Trail is a hidden gem for those visiting Hamilton who is looking for a secluded, natural experience. The trail is located in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area and it is considered moderately difficult with a distance of 4km.
The trail is well-maintained, with clear signage and a variety of terrain types to keep things interesting. It's designed for hiking, but also accessible for mountain biking. The trail winds through a forested valley, with several creek crossings, rock gardens, and steep sections. There are also several lookouts that offer great views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great place to stop and take a break.
The Chippewa trail is known for its diverse ecology, with several different habitats such as wetlands, meadows, and forests, hosting many species of birds, mammals, and plants. It's also a great spot for photography, and you may get lucky to see some of the area’s unique wildlife.
One of the trail’s highlights is Chippewa Creek, which runs through the trail and its valley. The creek offers a beautiful setting and a relaxing sound which is a great backdrop for a peaceful hike.
Free Entry: Yes (with the exception of one parking lot on Dartnall Road)
Location: Travels between Stoney Creek and Caledonia, parking can be found at various points where the trail intersects with the road.
5. Dofasco 2000 Rail Trail
The Dofasco 2000 Rail Trail is one of the best places for a hike in Hamilton because it provides you with an opportunity to discover so many unique sights! This 11.5km trail starts at the Devil’s Punch Bowl Conservation Area, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and admire the famous waterfall. From there, you can take the side trail to the Battlefield House Museum below the escarpment or stick to the main trail and traverse through the rural Stoney Creek countryside. Just watch out for ticks!
The trail cuts through the Vinemount South Swamp, which is the biggest swamp in the Hamilton Area and home to many rare species like Edward’s Hairstreak Butterfly. This portion of the trail has a boardwalk path, which makes it that much easier to enjoy. From there, you can continue on to the Erland Lee Museum, Saltfleet Northeast Woods, and the 87 Acre Park.
Free Entry: Entry is free, parking is paid
Location: Opposite the Devil’s Punch Bowl Conservation Area
6. Dundas Valley
The Dundas Valley Trail is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of the area — it’s one of the best hiking trails in Hamilton and the surrounding region.
The trail is part of the Hamilton Conservation Authority and is located just a short drive from the city. It offers a network of trails that cover over 40 km. These trails cover a range of different terrains, from easy flat trails to challenging hills.
The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It passes through a beautiful valley filled with Carolinian forest, streams and waterfalls, and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife like deer, foxes, and coyotes. It also features a variety of habitats including wetlands, meadows, and forests.
The trails are well-maintained with clear signage and maps along the way to help guide hikers. Along the trail, you will find picnic areas and benches to rest, as well as a visitors center, art exhibits, and historic Hermitage ruins — a 19th-century house that was once home to an artist — and an observation deck that offers a great view of the valley. You can also find two covered bridges along the trail one of which is pedestrian-only and offers a great photo opportunity.
Free Entry: No (admission is $11 per vehicle)
Location: Between Dundas and Ancaster
7. Eramosa Karst
The Eramosa Karst Conservation Area has been one of my favorite hiking spots in Hamilton for years. I actually remember hiking here before it was an official conservation area, back when you could park for free – maybe I’m aging myself here.
Eramosa Karst is known for its unique underground caves or “karsts, ” a geological formation found in Niagara Escarpment and other limestone formations. It’s also home to Ontario’s tenth-longest cave, which sits 335 meters long.
The area features over 7km of trails, which take you through the forest, over boardwalks, and right alongside the famous caves. There are also several interpretive panels for you to read and learn more about the area’s natural history.
Free Entry: Entry is free, parking is paid
Location: Upper Mount Albion Road, Stoney Creek
8. Escarpment Rail Trail
The Escarpment Rail Trail is a beautiful and unique trail that offers hikers and cyclists a chance to explore the natural beauty of Hamilton while also learning about the city's railway history. The trail is part of the Hamilton Conservation Authority and it is a 12km long trail that runs along an abandoned railway right-of-way.
The trail begins in Stoney Creek and continues north through the scenic Niagara Escarpment, passing through various woodlands and wetlands. Along the way, hikers will be treated to beautiful views of the escarpment and the surrounding countryside. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and even the occasional fox.
The trail is well-maintained, with crushed stone surface which makes it easy for cycling and strollers. Along the way, you will find picnic areas, benches, and historic rail car displays. The trail also offers easy access to the Bruce trail and Red Hill Valley trail which is popular among hikers.
One of the highlights of the Escarpment Rail Trail is the Devil's Punchbowl, a scenic waterfall that is accessible via the trail. It's a great spot to stop and take a break. It offers a great photo opportunity too. The trail also passes through several small towns and communities, providing a glimpse of Hamilton's history and culture.
Free Entry: Yes, although some parking areas are paid
Location: On the escarpment, between the central area and Stoney Creek.
9. Iroquoia Heights
The Iroquoia Heights Conservation Area is one of the most beautiful spots for a hike or bike ride in Hamilton! You can enjoy a sprawling view of the city below the escarpment and you can almost always spot a deer or two, as this area is known for its large population of White-Tailed Deer!
Iroquoia Heights offers a 3km looped trail that takes you through the thick forest, over the sprawling grassland and past waterfalls. It’s technically a side trail of the famous Bruce Trail, so you can easily extend your hiking adventure by continuing along the Bruce, connecting to the Chedoke Radial Trail or even into the Dundas Valley Conservation Area.
Free Entry: Yes
Locations: Old Mohawk Road, Filman Road and the Chedoke Radial Trail on Scenic Drive.
10. Mount Nemo Trail
The Mount Nemo Trail is a challenging hike that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is located on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The escarpment is a natural wonder and is known for its unique ecology, geology, and recreational opportunities.
The trail is considered to be of moderate to challenging level of difficulty, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. It's well-marked with clear signage and maps along the way, making it easy to navigate.
The trail passes through a variety of habitats including forests, wetlands, and rocky cliffs, providing hikers with the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife such as birds, deer, and even the occasional fox! The trail also offers great views of the escarpment and the surrounding countryside.
One of the highlights of the Mount Nemo Trail is the viewpoint at the top of the escarpment, it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot to take a break and take in the scenery. The trail also offers great opportunities for bird watching, with over 150 species of birds that have been spotted in the area.
With its unique ecology, geology, and recreational opportunities, the trail is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any nature enthusiast or outdoor lover.
Free Entry: No, entry is $10 per person and requires a reservation.
Location: In the countryside, at the edge of Burlington and Flamborough.
11. Red Hill Valley Trail
The Red Hill Valley Trail runs adjacent to the Red Hill Creek for a total of 12km, connecting the Waterfront Trail at Confederation Park with the Bruce Trail on the escarpment. Although you may hear the Redhill Parkway throughout most of your hike, the scenery in this part of Hamilton is incredibly picturesque and it should not be missed!
The creek is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the Southern Flying Squirrel and Coopers Hawk. It’s likely this area was once an integral part of the region, as researchers have found archaeological artifacts near the trail that are twice as old as the pyramids! Throughout the trail, there are a few interpretative signs, bridge crossings, and barrier-free sections. It might be difficult to walk the entire trail in one visit but it’s worth visiting for a couple of hours at least!
You can check out an overview of the trail here.
Free Entry: Yes
Locations: Numerous access points from Barton Street North to Mud Street
12. Royal Botanical Gardens Trail
The Royal Botanical Gardens Trail is a must-see for any nature lover. The gardens are known for their beautiful landscape, diverse plant collections, and secluded paths. The trail is part of the RBG, one of the most significant botanical gardens in Canada.
The Royal Botanical Gardens offer a network of trails that wind through the gardens, passing by a variety of different habitats such as wetlands, meadows, and forests, providing visitors with a peaceful escape from the city. The trails are well-maintained with crushed stone surfaces and boardwalks which makes them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
My personal favorite hiking trail in Hamilton is Cherry Hill, which is a part of the RBG. You can spot a variety of wildlife and even feed the chickadees from your hand!
The trails at Cherry Hill and throughout the RBG vary in terms of length and difficulty, there are short easy trails for a leisurely stroll, as well as longer and more challenging trails for those looking for a workout.
Some of the highlights of the Royal Botanical Gardens trails are the rock garden, the RBG Centre, the Hendrie Park, and the Lilacs trail, each with its unique flora, sculptures, and landscapes. The trail also passes through the RBG's Arboretum which is home to more than 2,000 species of trees and shrubs.
Free Entry: For most trails, entry is free but parking is paid
Location: Various access points between Hamilton and Burlington.
13. Spencer Creek Trail
The Spencer Creek Trail is known for its beautiful scenery and secluded paths. The trail begins at the Spencer Creek Trailhead and follows the creek for approximately 7 km.
Along the way, hikers will be treated to views of the tranquil Spencer Creek, as well as the surrounding wetlands and woodlands. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and even the occasional beaver.
The trail is well-maintained, with clear signage and a variety of terrain types to keep things interesting. There are some steep sections, but overall the trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty. At one point, the trail intersects with the Bruce Trail, where you can extend your journey — if you’re up for the challenge, consider taking a detour here.
Overall, the Spencer Creek Trail is a great option for nature lovers looking for a peaceful hike in the heart of Hamilton. With its beautiful scenery and secluded paths, the trail is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any hiker.
Free Entry: Yes
Location: Between Hamilton and Dundas, free parking is available on the side of Highway 8, near the trailhead.
14. Spencer Gorge and Webster's Falls Trail
The Spencer Gorge/Webster's Falls Trail is certainly one of the most popular hiking trails in Hamilton. It’s beautiful and picturesque, whisking hikers to two scenic waterfalls: Spencer Gorge and Webster's Falls. The trail is located in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area.
The trail is well-maintained, with clear signage and maps along the way, making it easy to navigate. The trail varies in terms of difficulty, some parts are easy, while others are more challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain.
The trail passes through a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and rocky cliffs, providing hikers with the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife such as birds, deer, and even the occasional fox. The trail also offers great views of the escarpment and the surrounding countryside.
One of the trail highlights is the viewpoint at the top of the escarpment which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The trail also offers great opportunities for bird watching, with over 150 species of birds that have been spotted in the area. Another highlight of the trail is the waterfalls, Spencer Gorge Falls and Webster's falls, both are great spots to take a break and enjoy the view.
With its scenic waterfalls, diverse habitats, and easy access, the Spencer Gorge/Webster's Falls Trail is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any nature lover.
Free Entry: No. Entry on foot or bicycle is $5 per person, and entry by car is $16 per vehicle plus $5 per person.
Location: Dundas, towards the beginning of Flamborough
15. Waterdown Wetland Trail
The Waterdown Wetland Trail is another great hiking option for those visiting Hamilton. The trail is located in the town of Waterdown, which is just a short drive from downtown.
The trail is well-maintained with crushed stone surfaces and boardwalks that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The trail is approximately 2km long and runs through a beautiful wetland area. The trail takes hikers through diverse ecosystems including marshlands, forests, and fields which host a variety of wildlife.
This area is known for its many bird sightings — you can find over 150 species of birds along the trail, making it popular among birdwatchers. You can also find interpretive signs that provide information about the natural and cultural heritage of the area. The trail is perfect for children as there is a playground and picnic area at the trailhead and allows leashed dogs as well.
The Waterdown Wetland Trail is a great option for those looking for a shorter hike that is still packed with natural beauty and wildlife. The trail is also easy and accessible, making it a great option for families and visitors of all ages.
If you're looking to extend your hike, you can connect to the Grindstone Creek Trail which is a 4.5km trail that runs through the Grindstone Creek Conservation Area and the Royal Botanical Gardens and provides a beautiful waterfall viewing experience.
Free Entry: Yes
Location: Waterdown, free parking is available in the parking lot of Joe Sam’s Leisure & Dog Park
16. Waterfront Trail
No list of the best hiking trails in Hamilton would be complete without mentioning the famous Waterfront Trail, which stretches over 3,600km across the Great Lakes.
In Hamilton, the trail is split into two sections; the Waterfront Trail and the Hamilton Recreation Beach Trail. Both offer a smooth service for your city hikes and bicycle rides.
The Waterfront Trail is 7.5km in total. Starting at Pier 8, it connects Hamilton Harbour to Princess Point in Westdale. At the beginning of your hike, you can visit the HMCS Haida or grab a bite to eat at Williams Café before walking through Bayfront Park, Pier 4 Park and Cootes Paradise.
There is an impressive staircase under the York Street Bridge that will lead you up to Dundurn Park if you want to continue your urban hike and enjoy a scenic lookout in Hamilton. Many portions of this trail are wheelchair-friendly.
The Hamilton Recreation Beach Trail is 8km in total. It will take you from the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge to Confederation Park in Stoney Creek. You can enjoy a number of interpretive signs along the way that shed light on the interesting history behind Hamilton’s waterfront.
On a warm summer day, you can end your hike at Hutch’s by the Beach enjoying an ice cream or taking a dip in Lake Ontario.
Free Entry: Yes
Locations: Pier 8, Pier 4, Bayfront Park, and Princess Point
Resources to Help You Plan Your Hike
Hamilton is home to a diverse array of hiking trails that offer something for everyone, from scenic waterfront walks to challenging mountain climbs. The 16 hiking trails in Hamilton highlighted in this post are just a small selection of the many wonderful options available to hikers in the area.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, these trails offer stunning views, diverse terrain, and plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. So hit the trails in Hamilton – you won't be disappointed!
I’ve put together a short list of my favourite hiking products on Amazon Canada to help you gear up for your next adventure:
This mini belt bag went viral a couple of years back for being a near exact dupe of the Lululemon version. It fits a surprising amount of stuff and can be worn in various ways, making it perfect for an afternoon hike.
I love using this insulated water bottle. It’s leakproof, shatterproof, and comes with a built-in handle making it easy to attach to your bag as you hike. It will keep your drinks cold for up to 24 hours!
In Europe, walking poles like these nordic-style trekking poles are incredibly common — you’ll see people of all ages using them. As it turns out, they give you momentum while you’re walking, which increases your speed and stability. Once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to hiking without them.
I’ve mentioned this LifeStraw a few times as it’s one of my favourite camping accessories. It’s a portable water filter that enables you to drink water directly from any source, through the built-in straw. With it, I look forward to taste-testing water sources around Ontario, especially up North!
If you have any tips or questions about hiking in Hamilton, please leave a comment below.
Thanks for reading. Happy travels!
