Golden Horseshoe Outdoors Guide

Trails

  • The Waterdown Trail to Smokey Hollow is a peaceful and beautiful little spot that connects to plenty of trails, and of course this main route. The trail takes hikers to the viewing overlook of the falls right at the beginning of the path, and if they keep walking a little the route will bring hikers to the bottom and they can fairly easily get themselves closer to the waterfall.

  • Check out this 5.3-km loop trail near Thorold. Generally considered a moderate route, it takes an average of 1 h 15 minutes to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.

  • The starting point of this beautiful trail is the Monarch Trail, which will lead you to the Main Loop. This is an extremely popular area for locals and tourists alike, so the trails are really well marked, with each branch and turning point labeled by four-foot tall posts and their corresponding trail directional names.

  • This trail will bring you from Bayfront Park, Alon the Waterfront Trail and crossing under the McQuesten Bridge before arriving at Princess Point Park

  • This is one of the most beautiful hikes without the falls in view, located deep in the Niagara Gorge. The Niagara Glen overlooks the waters of the Niagara River and the Whirlpool through forest scenery.

  • Following along the Red Hill Valley Creek, there are two access points at the trailhead from residential streets. Once on the trail, you'll have a nice variety of landscapes to see, especially along the creek sections. The trees are huge here, and there are only a few roadway crossings to connect along the trail.

Activities

  • A large fenced in field just south of the St Catherine’s Golf Club with a stream and wooded area

  • Get away from the Nagara crowds, just short drive or walk north of the falls. This is the perfect place for lunch to watch the rapids and city from afar.

  • Sprawling gardens from May until October. Indoor and outdoor gardens tucked in this landscape with trails nearby

  • The perfect place for city views from the top of the Escarpment

  • Explore the 60 foot waterfall and old grain mill just south of St Catherines. Stand below the falling water for the perfect cool down

  • The perfect place to chill, either catching some rays or sipping coffee. With so many great cafes and food options nearby you can start or finish this park with a treat.

Find near you

  • Escape into the wilderness and reconnect with nature on a camping adventure. Gather your family and friends around a crackling campfire share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

  • On your next round, ditch the beer cart and elevate your experience with Summit. While we can't promise it'll improve your game, we guarantee you'll savor every moment on the course

  • If you know you know. If you don’t, get dinking and you will be addicted in no time. Stash a Summit in you gym bag for the best recovery ever.

  • Connect with nature right at home – whether it's your window sill, balcony, or backyard garden. Our top pick? Growing fresh herbs in a sunny window to elevate the munchies to the next level

  • Tuesday afternoon around the block or Sunday morning to the local coffee shop. Music is optional, bringing the dog is not.

  • Crack a Summit. try something from as many vendors as possible. People watch while you eat. What could be better?