Parks & Natural Habitats

Charles Daley Park is a 22.5 acre waterfront park located on the North Service Road between Jordan Road and Seventh Street.  The park is open all year and functions as a passive park for picnicking, group gatherings, beachcombing and special events.

Located along the 16 Mile Creek in Jordan, Louth Falls are among the most striking in the Niagara Greenbelt. They are 25 meters in height and are formed by the Irondequoit limestone of the Niagara escarpment, nestled in the beautiful surrounding landscape.   There are other falls located within the vicinity of Louth Falls such as Rockway Falls and Balls Falls. To get to Louth Falls from the parking lot it is approximately 200-300 meters. Follow the blue markers down the hill and then make a left at the bottom. The markers will be white Listen for the sound of water and you can’t miss it. You know when you have arrived because there will be a commemorative plaque in that area. This may seem far but the walk to the falls is worth it. These falls should be visited in the early spring in order to see them at their best.   CAUTION: There are no guard rails protecting you from the waterfall. Be careful when viewing it as the drop is steep and it could cause severe injury or death. Visiting this waterfall requires you to hike over irregular and steep terrain; proper shoes and attire should be worn.  

Renowned as the best vantage point in the Niagara Peninsula to observe the annual spring hawk migration, Beamer Memorial Conservation Area also offers one of the most breathtaking and panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario. Take a walk along the scenic Lookout Trail and soak up the picturesque views of the 40 Mile Creek Valley, the Lake Ontario shoreline and the escarpment ridge from one of our viewing platforms. Don’t forget your binoculars; you’ll be sure to enjoy the view! There is also access to the Bruce Trail at this Conservation Area. This is the site of the annual spring hawk migration over the Niagara Peninsula. Bring your camera to capture amazing pictures of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario, as well as the Upper and Lower Falls which are located around the established hiking trails. Be sure to join us on Good Friday for the Annual Hawk Watch Open House.

Dufferin Islands are located just south of Niagara Falls on the Niagara Parkway. The potential of this area was obvious and as a result it was used for a saw and grist mill in the late 1700s. Subsequently a unique feature was discovered within the area, the “Burning Spring”. A natural gas well was soon discovered which lead to the bubbling of the surface water. This feature was utilized to attract tourists. The gas well was corked with pipe/barrel contraption to build pressure in the vent. When tourist audiences arrived the cork was released and a match was lit, thus giving it is name. Today the area is the responsibility of the Niagara Parks Commission to remain a beautiful nature area. In the summer season a swimming area is maintained as well.   In recent years, the introduction of fish, the installation of bird feeding stations and bird boxes, as well as planting indigenous vegetation appropriate for this environment have help to naturalize the area. The "catch and release" fish program has been incredibly popular with the public

The Louth Conservatio Area is located along the 16 mile creek in Lincoln County. This 62 hectare parcel of land was purchased in 1973 and preserves a portion of the Niagara Escarpment and provides access to the Bruce Trail. Visually appeasing scenery can be seen from this trail including two magnificent waterfalls. The upper falls plunges 3.66 metres while the lower falls plummets from a height 7.92 metres. This area is basically u sed for passive-recreational day use only.

Set within the breathtaking Twenty Valley watershed, Ball’s Falls Conservation Area offers spectacular scenery and natural beauty. Your visit will begin at the Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation. This exciting addition to Ball’s Falls is a place where generations of people will be able to discover and learn about this area’s rich historical past. Designed and built to have a limited impact on natural resources this award winning LEED Gold certified facility features permanent and temporary galleries. Visitors will take pleasure in the interactive exhibits and displays focusing on nature, conservation and culture in the context of the area’s history, the Niagara Escarpment, and the watershed. As you continue your adventure, you will discover that Ball’s Falls has been lovingly maintained to its early mid 19th century industrial hamlet atmosphere featuring the original Ball family home, an operating flour mill, a lime kiln, a church, black smith shop, carriage shed and more. Photographers and nature lovers alike will love the incredibly breathtaking view of the majestic Twenty Mile Creek as it plummets over both the upper and lower falls. The falls tumble delightfully over high cliffs and can be viewed at close proximity from above or below. The character of the falls changes dramatically with the seasons, ranging from a raging torrent in the spring to a thin veil in late summer. Wind up your visit with a hike or stroll along the Cataract Trail aside the banks of Twenty Mile Creek with easy access to the Bruce Trail.

This unique attraction is a very popular stop on the Niagara Parkway and is photographed almost as often as the Falls!   The planted face is maintained by Niagara Parks horticulture staff, while the mechanism is kept in working order by Ontario Hydro, the organization that originally built the clock. The intricate designs on the face of the timepiece are created with up to 16,000 carpet bedding plants. The floral design is changed twice each year - it features viola in the Spring and four cultivars of Alternanthera along with green and grey forms of Santolina Sage during the Summer and Fall. California Golden Privet and Blue Festuca Grass may be used for contrast.   The grounds surrounding the clock feature bedding displays and a Tower at the back of the clock houses Westminster chimes that greet each quarter hour. If the door into the Tower is open, you can take a glimpse at the clock mechanism and enjoy photographs that show the history of every face design all the way back to 1950.   An attractive feature is a 10-foot wide water garden that curves 85 feet around the base of the timepiece - it is a popular place to make a wish!

Located in the Balls Falls Conservation Area, Upper Balls Falls should not be missed. Part of the Twenty Mile Creek, Upper Balls Falls is classified as a plunge formation where the water flows over the side of the gorge and does not touch rock untill it reaches the bottom. The plunge formation is the most common formation of waterfall found in the area.   To access the falls it is just a 10-15 min walk upstream. To get to Upper Balls Falls make sure to use the west side trail. If visited in later summer to fall the water may have dried up, giving you a chance to walk on the river bed. It is best to view these falls in the spring  after the snow has melted in order to see them at their best.   WARNING: Safety precautions should be taken whilst visiting Balls Falls. Although there are retaining walls guarding the gorge, you should still be carful when viewing them.  While on the trail keep a look out for loose rocks and slippery slopes

Municipal Beach is located on the Southern shore of Lake Ontario in North St. Catharines. Municipal Beach is operated by the City of St. Catharines and offers residents full access to the beach, playground and picnic area. The beach provides tourists a great opportunity to experience natural environmental heritage in St. Catharines and be within close proximity to other recreational parks and trails.

Short Hills is 735-hectare, and is a day-use park. There are six-side trails along the Bruce Trail. This amazing park has both dense forests and open meadows, and also has meandering creeks and gentle hills that are perfect for strolling. The Park includes very lush Carolinian forest. There are several trails in the park. The Black Walnut Trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, while the Scarlet Tanager, Hemlock Valley, Terrace Creek and Paleozoic Trails are open to hikers only. As well you can hook up to the Bruce Trail.

This Conservation Area is located along the Welland River in the Township of West Lincoln. A vegetative buffer with mature trees help to provide wildlife cover and shades the river for fish and other species. Shoreline fishing and river access await you at this site of less than 0.2 hectares (0.5 acres)

The Humberstone Marsh Conservation Area is 202 acre (82 hectares) located in the City of Port Colborne. protecting to the wetlands and area waterways. Passive recreational activities, including hunting, can be enjoyed here.

Officially opened in 1967 in celebration of Canada's 100th birthday, the garden is part of the Merritt Trail system. The Centennial Garden features a stonedust path bordered by large willow trees as the trail follows the historic Second Welland Canal, which converge with Dick's and Carter's Creeks within the park. In warm weather the park is popular for picnics and sunbathing on the large lawns. The first half of the park is open to cars and and allows users to drive down the trail and park in the shade of the trees. Year round walking and on-leash dog-walking are popular activities. In the summer of 2009 a community vegetable garden was sponsored by Climate Action Now in the South-end of the park and is worth investigating during the growing season. The park also displays a pair of historic plaques, the first highlights the life of Richard Pierpont. One of the first Black settlers of the region - he fought for the British in the American Revolution, and in the War of 1812 before making his home in St. Catharines. The second plaque describes the construction and development of the original Welland Canal from 1824-1833 and its impact on the region.

Located within the Twenty Valley Watershed, Lower Balls Falls  is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls within the area. Explore the many trails that this conservation area has to offer, and view the many other water features located within the vicinity. Lower Balls Falls is a plunge falls,  falling 27m  to the bottom of the gorge. Beneath Lower Balls Falls are smaller casacade falls; a visit is recomended. The flow of the water changes throughout the year, so these falls should be viewed in the spring immediately after the snow has melted in order to see them in full flow WARNING: Although waterfalls are beautiful, you must remember that they can be dangerous. Be safe while viewing them. Do not climb over the guard rails and make sure to watch your steep while on pathways and trails. it could be slippery and there may be loose rocks.

The Comfort Maple Conservation Area conserves what is widely believed to be the oldest and finest sugar maple tree in Canada. Located in the Town of Pelham, this 500 year old tree towers about 80 feet at its crown with a trunk circumference of 6 metres (20 feet) and symbolizes Canada’s strength and tradition. Dating back to land purchased by the Comfort family in 1816, this 0.2 hectares (0.5 acre) area is protected for its historical and biological significance.

The Woolverton Conservation Area is a natural area located in the Town of Grimsby.  A hardwood forest is conserved on this 18 hectare property.  It is an excellent location for birding. It is pretty rugged and so not as busy as other Bruce Trail areas, so perhaps you'd have a chance at glimpsing wildlife.

The Beamer Memorial Conservation Area in Grimsby offers some spectacular waterfalls for you to enjoy creating perfect photo opportunities. One of these is the 45 feet Upper Falls It is also the perfect place to go hawk watching in the spring, due to the strong updrafts of warmer air of the escarpment. It is famous for its migration of raptors.  Beamer Upper Falls is a ramp waterfall in the shape of a fan with water flowing from the Forty Mile Creek. Water cascades down hundreds of thin rock layers consistently. It is a perfect waterfall to visit at any time, with little micro falls occurring even during low flows due to the river being spread out. It can be viewed from above around the top of the gorge, or by following a trail to the base of the waterfall. Caution: There are no hand-rails around the side of the gorge therefore you must be careful. The gorge has a steep drop and therefore an accidental fall could result in a serious injury or death. The area around the falls may be slippery and wet therefore take care when walking around.  

The Beamer Memorial Conservation Area in Grimsby offers some spectacular waterfalls for you to enjoy and creates some perfect photo opportunities. One of these waterfalls is the 20ft Lower Falls. It is also the perfect place to go hawk watching in the spring, due to the strong updrafts of warmer air of the escarpment. It is famous for its migration of raptors.        The Lower Beamer Falls which is along the Forty Mile Creek Valley, is 20 ft high and 10-40 feet wide and takes a ramp and plunge formation in a natural setting. It can be viewed by following the trail from the parking lot into the woods, down into the escarpment and walk upstream.        Caution: There are no hand-rails around the side of the gorge therefore you must be careful. The gorge has a steep drop and therefore an accidental fall could result in a serious injury or death. The area around the falls may be slippery and wet therefore take care when walking around.

Paradise Grove Oak Savannah Restoration Area is located at the north end of the Niagara Parkway, just south of John Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This area is in the process of  being restored to its natural state through the introduction of native plant species. Since 2003, with the introduction of 1,000 oak saplings, there has been a dramatic increase in biodiversity. Paradise Grove is a fantastic place to go for a walk to become familiar with Niagara's local ecology. If you are looking to escape from the hustle bustle of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and would like to experience a natural setting, Paradise Grove is the place to go. Within walking distance from town, it is a peaceful nature retreat.

The Niagara Glen (Scottish term for steep narrow valley) provides a beautiful location for picnic on the Wintergreen flats and trail hiking. Walking through the trails is like a walk through time as the rock layers and fossils date back as far as four hundred million years.

The Wainfleet Wetlands is located in the Township of Wainfleet. This 182 hectare (450 acre) site was purchased in 1978 for the purpose of providing a habitat for fish and wildlife and protecting the area wetland and unique open rock history. This wetland is unique as it attracts a large variety of bird species. Over 50 different species of birds has been sighted at the Wainfleet Wetlands. Yellow warblers are the most common, and wading and shorebirds are plentiful. Some of the birds which you are likely to see include great blue herons, egrets, gulls, terns, and sandpipers. Wainfleet Wetlands displays an interesting array of rock formations and coral fossils. These fossils are part of our natural history and are protected at the site, along with the wildlife and its habitat.

Montebello Park is the main park in the Downtown St. Catharines. The park is located along Ontario Street at the south end of Lake Street in St. Patrick's Ward It was designed in 1887, by Frederick Law Olmstead, the founding father of landscape architecture in the United States, and one of the designers of Central Park in New York City. This park is the home of numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors to the park will enjoy the playground and open space, viewing the 1,300 rose bushes or listening to concerts throughout the summer months. The pavilion and band shell are available to rent for special occasions. Band shell plays host to concerts every Sunday, June to September.  This park is 2.49 hectares.

The Virgil Dams and Conservation Area is located in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This 50 hectares (123 acres) area features natural areas of woodland, wetland and open water reservoir providing conservation, recreational and educational opportunities. This conservation area's facilities include benches and picnic tables. The Virgil Dams conservation area features the Four Mile Creek Floodplain and the Virgil reservoir. Trails as well as fishing, bird watching, hiking and nature appreciation are some of the activities associated with this area.

Chippawa Creek is a splendid example of conservation in action. The NPCA’s resource management practices have established an ideal wildlife habitat that offers rare public access to the Welland River. Naturalists can hike on the south side of Chippawa Creek where they will find excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Dils Lake, a 10 hectare man made reservoir, is the perfect spot for a variety of outdoor activities including non-motorized boating, swimming and fishing. Equipped with wheelchair- accessible fishing piers and trails, the lake is stocked with bass and is a favourite area amongst anglers who can enjoy this popular sport at the annual Bass Derby.

The St. David's buried gorge existed 22,800 years ago. It was once a part of an ancient drainage system which extended the entire width of the NiagaraPeninsula. The St. David's Buried Gorge was approximately 1200 long, 305 meters wide, and 91 meters deep at the  whirlpool. Previously the gorge was 200 feet deeper than the depth of LakeOntario. The gorge extended into LakeOntario 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) west of the present Niagara River. The gorges original landscape is no longer visible however, as the widely recognized Whirlpool Gorge was formed in its place. Thus only remnants of its geologic origins exist.

This park is named after the famous golfer Marlene Stewart Streit, a Canadian golf legend who grew up in Fonthill just up the hill from here. As a youngster she became a golf caddy at Lookout Point Golf Course at the top of the Fonthill Kame. She was soon playing herself and was noticed as a natural and her talents were refined by local experts. "As you are going into the park, the building on your right is used for storeage and town vehicles, but it was once the Fonthill Train Station. The Niagara, St. Catharines and Toronto Railway (NS&T), first came through the village on June 1, 1907 and ran until 1959, giving residents an easy commute to surrounding cities for work or pleasure.”  Historic Walking Tour of Fonthill. Tour 2. Pelham Historical Society. 2006. Within the park are the remnants of the city's waterworks system, strategically built in the 1900s at the foot of the Fonthill Kame.  The water at the foot of the Kame is said to to have been very clean, as it filtered through the sandy soil. The town's own waterworks system was replaced by piped treated water from the Regional Niagara system in the mid-1990s, and though the new Regional water supply is less mineral-laden than that from the Fonthill Kame, it does not compare in taste and odour.  Currently there is a nature path, a baseball diamond and playground area for public enjoyment. There's also a large heated outdoor pool, and nature trails, including the John Nemy Nature Trail, established in 2006.  John Nemy a long time resident and former owner of Fonthill Lumber has lived on the hill overlooking the trail for over 20 years.  An avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast he was very honoured that the trail was named for him.  Wildflowers have been planted along the trail and the wooden foot bridges over the marshy sections were courtesy of Fonthill Lumber. Every Easter, the Town of Pelham and participating businesses and community groups host an annual EGGstravaganza at Marlene Stewart Streit Park.  Kids bring their own baskets or bags to collect eggs, and a camera for photos with the Easter Bunny.

The Smeaton's Ravine, called a "Secret Fairyland" in a 1935 newspaper article by Albert H. Tiplin, is located on the Canadian shoreline opposite the Floral Clock in Niagara Falls.

Morgan’s Point Conservation Area is a significant parcel of land located in Wainfleet on the shores of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore the shoreline, unique dunes and natural plant communities. Remnants of oak savannah prairie habitat that once covered large areas of the Niagara Peninsula are being protected at Morgan’s Point. Several other fragile species that rely on the sensitive sand dune environment can be seen along the Lake Erie shoreline. This site is one of the few remaining public access points to Lake Erie, and also plays an important role as a stopover for migrating birds and monarch butterflies. Morgan’s Point Conservation Area provides a unique eco-tourism venue with distinctive educational opportunities, and is a magnificent place to explore nature with a trail and boardwalk designed to minimize human impacts on the sensitive sand dunes. The lakefront bedrock shoal outcrop, sand dunes, tall grass meadow, woodlot and open areas lend to the site’s passive uses of hiking, bird and butterfly watching and nature appreciation. This conservation area is an exquisite site for the naturalist in all of us.   

What is now known as the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture was established in 1936 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The school is a prestigious institute for studying the art and science of horticulture, which includes the ground's botanical gardens, which are developed by the school's staff, students and alumni. The 40 hectares of garden include perennials, a formal parterre garden, herb and vegetable plantings, rhodedendrons and the beautiful rose garden featuring 2400 roses. The grounds also have a cafe for guests.

The Willoughby Marsh is located in the City of Niagara Falls and the property's total area is 232 hectares (573 acres). This is a provincially significant wetland containing swamp and marsh communities. The most common plant species are Red, White, Swamp White, Black and Pin Oak. Others include Red, Silver and Black maple, White, Slippery and Rock Elm. This provides habitat for a variety of birds, mammals, snakes, frogs, toads and salamanders. The site helps protect the water source of Black, Usher, and Tee Creeks. This marsh area can be used during various hunting seasons. No formal trails or facilities exist at this site. Bird watching, hunting and passive recreational activities can be enjoyed at this site.

The Wainfleet Bog Conservation Area covers 801 hectares (1980 acres) and was purchased by the Niagara Parks Conservation Authority in 1996. Located in Port Colborne, this conservation area is part of the largest, least disturbed peatland in Southern Ontario.   In the past, human actions have drastically altered the Wainfleet Bog area, reducing and fragmenting wetland habitat.  Much of the bog was once owned by a peat extraction company, which dug drainage ditches to lower the water table, allowing for easier access to the bog for peat extraction, local farming, and potential development.   Wainfleet bog is one of the few acidic bogs left in Southern Ontario.  Once thought to have covered 20,000 hectares (49421 acres), Wainfleet bog currently covers 801 hectares (1980 acres), which is only about 6% of its original extent.  Many rare plant and animal species inhabit the bog and depend on it for their survival, including one of the smallest populations of massasauga rattlesnake. Wainfleet bog is also a source of water and aids in flood control. Various hiking trails encourage exploration of the bog and its wildlife.  

Spend the whole summer or the weekend at the Long Beach Conservation Area on Lake Erie. Features include a sandy beach and 225 serviced and unserviced campsites. Launch your boat, fish, play bocce ball, horseshoes, baseball, or just enjoy your picnic while the children swim or play on the playground. The abundant beach shoreline is Long Beach’s main attraction. The sand and pebble beach is a natural playground for those who swim, sunbathe, boat, sail, fish, sailboard, jet-ski, etc. the list is only limited by the imagination. Visitors can stroll the shoreline or open a lawn chair in the shade to enjoy nature’s air-conditioner – the great Lake Erie breeze.

he Stevensville Conservation Area is a passive recreational area located in the Town of Fort Erie. On this 49 hectare (122 acre) site, visitors are greeted by a forest, meandering Black Creek, wetland, as well as a fishing pond and open picnic area to make an enjoyable day. Conservation efforts continue at this site with the help of the Fort Erie Conservation Club (FECC). The FECC clubhouse is also located on this site

The Mountainview Conservation Area is a passive natural area located in the Town of Lincoln. Comprised of Carolinian forest, this 25 hectare (61 acres) conserves natural features of the Carolinian plants, animals and a portion of the Niagara Escarpment. The Bruce Trail traverses this property which is thought to be an ideal area for hiking purposes. Throughout the trail, there are various lookout points which provide a unique view of the Iroquois plain and Lake Ontario.

This 22 hectare (54 acre) site is leased to the Town of Fort Erie and provides active and passive recreational opportunities. Site features include 2 baseball diamonds, picnic shelter, and nature hiking trails, as well as a mature deciduous forest and Black Creek for wildlife habitat and other ecological benefits such as water quality and quantity improvement/protection, air quality improvement and temperature modifications.

The Niagara Parks Commission acquired the site of the Battle of Chippawa in 1995 and has preserved 121 hectares (300 acres) of this pristine battlefield, the last remaining site from the War of 1812. A self-guided walking tour helps retrace the events of the battle. A memorial service is held on July 5th each year to commemorate the fallen of all the nations involved in this pivotal battle. A focal point of the Battlefield is the memorial cairn, dedicated to the regiments and First Nations warriors who fought in the battle and commemorating the peace that has prevailed between Canada and the United States since that time. The monument is constructed of dolomite limestone donated by Fort Niagara (Youngstown, New York), another key site in the War of 1812.

Secluded in Martin's Creek, these falls are one of the Niagara Escarpment's best kept secrets. Martins Falls is classified as the plunge type and although it is only a mere three meters in height it is still striking. This waterfall may be a bit difficult to reach due to some of the land formations in the area. However since it is very close to the road it is worth it. The spring is the best time for viewing this interesting water feature. Warning: The best view of these falls is just from the bridge. The bridge is on a main road so be wary of traffic. There are no pathways or trails leading to the falls so if you wish to get close to the falls, you do so at your own risk.

As well as its main Upper and Lower Falls, DeCew has a lesser known falls that is worth a visit. Faucet Falls is a small plunge falls which unlike other falls in the area is artificial. Having been created for the DeCew Falls Generating Station, small holes have been constructed into the side of the gorge, with the drained water causing a waterfall. Faucet Falls can be viewed over the crest of Upper DeCew Falls, by Morningstar Mill. WARNING: The gorge is extremely steep and therefore great caution must be taken. When hiking in the area, be aware that there may be some steep areas. Hike in a pair rather than alone. An accidental fall may result in serious injury or death. Be weary that the area around the falls may be slippery and wet. Also be aware of falling rocks from above.    

Morrison Park is located in the quaint town of Grimsby. It provides access to Lake Ontario and has beautiful beachfront shoreline for swimming. It is a great place to enjoy the lake and on a clear day catch a glimpse of Toronto while you are playing a game of basketball

The Rockway Conservation Area is located along the 15 Mile Creek near the City of St. Catharines. This 126 hectare (312 acre) site protects a portion of the Niagara Escarpment, the Rockway Falls, and the diverse flora and fauna of the Carolinian Forest. The Bruce Trail traverses the southern section of this area and is considered an ideal spot for hiking. Two main waterfalls exist along this portion of the 15 Mile Creek. The larger of the two plunges from a height of 19.5 (63 ft) metres while the smaller from a height of 12.2 metres. The watercourse continues to surge over a series of rapids. Some interesting flora can be viewed at this location; Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Witch Hazel, and Sycamore to name a few. A remnant salt spring brings some historical significance to the area as it is thought to have been used as far back as 1792. It contained some of the best quality and quantity of salt in the province. Site facilities include limited parking off 9th Ave. on escarpment tablelands.

Burgoyne Woods is a city-wide park located in St. Andrew's Ward. Visitors from within St. Catharines and the Niagara Region enjoy the variety of active and passive recreation facilities throughout the year.  The natural areas contain streams and a variety of topography to challenge the most skilled hiker or provide pleasant walking or hiking opportunities.  Residents with dogs come to this park to enjoy the leash free dog park. Picnic areas and shelters are also available.  Active recreation is possible either in the swimming or wading pools, on the tennis courts or by using the softball area. The entrance to Burgoyne Woods park is located at the east end of Edgedale Road. This park is 46 hectares.

Swayze Falls is located in Short Hills Provincial Park near St Catharines. At fifty feet high, the waterfall is dry for most of the year, and can also be known as “Dry Falls”, with just a trickle of water running down into the gorge. However, in early spring or after heavy rains, visitors will be treated to the waterfall in all its glory. Swayze Falls in the wintertime is also a must-see, with the waterfall freezing over leading to a spectacular view. For easiest access to Swayze Falls, park at the Roland Road entrance and follow the Paleozoic Trail. A platform is provided to allow the easiest and best views of the waterfall. WARNING: Please be careful when exploring the waterfall. The drop into the gorge is steep. Therefore take care when viewing the falls from above or stick to the viewing platform. If exploring the falls from below, be aware that it may be slippery and wet. A fall may result in serious injury or death.                    

Located in Port Dalhousie Ward, Lakeside Park offers1,500 feet of sandy beach, picnic area, carousel, concessions, playground equipment, dressing rooms, washrooms and parking area, pavilion, Waterfront Trail and Port Dalhousie Harbour Walkway. This park is 5.3 hectares. The smiles and laughter which the Lakeside Park Carousel inspire are a century old tradition!  For 5 cents a ride, you can experience the carousel's magic and its wonderful ability to bring out the child in all of us.  The carousel is a timeless tradition connecting our past, present and future generations.

Located atop the Niagara Escarpment in Niagara-on-the-Lake, this conservation area provides a spectacular view of Niagara’s natural beauty. The Bruce Trail and two self guided trails are popular for hikers and cross country skiers alike through this forested site. The natural features at Woodend provide many opportunities for outdoor activities including bird watching, picnicking, hiking and cross-country skiing. Woodend is also home to students participating in the outdoor education programs in the education centre, which is leased by the District School Board of Niagara. The forest communities at Woodend are composed largely of broad leafed hardwood species such as sugar maple, beech, red oak, shagbark hickory, and rock elm. Black cherry, black oak, and paw paw are sporadically scattered throughout the area and are representative of Carolinian forest species. This diversity of vegetation provides the food and habitat needed to sustain wildlife.

The first conservation area in Niagara with wheelchair accessible facilities, St. Johns Conservation Area reflects the commitment of the NPCA to provide everyone with the opportunity to experience and appreciate our natural heritage. Located close to urban areas, St. Johns offers an abundance of natural beauty and scenic trails, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy an appreciation for nature. Wind through the Tulip Tree Trail, Sassafras Trail, Horseshoe Trail, or the St. Johns Ridge Trail and you are sure to be pleased with the fantastic view of the Carolinian forest. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for rare and endangered flora and fauna species! Nestled in the unique valley of the 12 Mile Creek, this Niagara Escarpment treasure displays many species and wildlife characteristics of the unique Carolinian Zone. View some of the largest Tulip Tree stands in the Niagara Peninsula, and fish for rainbow trout (during season) at the site’s trout pond. Bird watching and frog watching are a few of the other unique opportunities available at the site.

Bal Harbour is a community park located along the Waterfront Trail in the peaceful town of Grimsby. This park provides access to the beachfront on Lake Ontario for swimming. If you are looking for a relaxing place to enjoy the waterfront, Bal Harbour is a very good choice.

At the entrance to this historic Park you will be greeted by carpet bedding displays, along with formalized annual bedding schemes that surround both the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. Nestled high atop the Niagara Escarpment, this is the birthplace of Niagara Falls - garden and nature lovers, hikers and picnickers have used this park for generations.

Jordan Hollow Park is a good rest stop or staging area for those using the Twenty Valley Trail.  With picnic tables and an open field, visitors are welcome to bring games or picnic items to this stopover on King Street/Regional Road 81.  

Nestled in the picturesque Twenty Valley watershed, this water body is a Provincially Significant Wetland located along the south shore of Lake Ontario at Twenty Mile Creek. The kilometre-wide harbour site offers a public launching dock for non-motorized watercraft offering visitors the opportunity to experience the magnificent gateway along the Twenty Mile Creek. The waterway is one of the largest uninterrupted natural corridors left in Niagara between the escarpment and the lake. The site is protected as an Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI) containing a variety of unique wildlife and tree species that are rarely seen elsewhere in the peninsula. The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority acquired the site from the Province of Ontario in 2005 and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation has made a commitment to assist the Authority by raising funds to revive the site as a visitor hub. To date sufficient funds have been secured to commence with the project by making improvements to the access road, providing a dedicated parking and picnic area.

Malcolmson Park is located on the north side of Lakeshore Road at Niagara Street. It is adjacent to the Welland Canal at Lock One. This unique park offers residents with an opportunity to explore and learn about our native flora and fauna. It contains the Malcolmson Eco Park and nature trails. The Welland Canal Parkway Trail and the Waterfront Trail both travel through this park. The park is located in the Grantham Ward. This park is 14.4 hectares.