The Niagara Escarpment begins south of Rochester, New York and extends westward parallel to and south of the shores of Lake Ontario. It crosses into Canada, at Queenston, Ontario in the Niagara Peninsula where it is breached by the Niagara River.
The forests in the Niagara region are some of the most beautiful anywhere along the Niagara Escarpment's length. This is the Carolinian vegetation zone, where tulip trees, sassafras, black cherry, paw paw and shagbark hickory are scattered throughout the forests. Black Cherry dominates, rising tall and straight to a lush canopy high overhead. Some are more than a metre in diameter.
Crops do well in these southern environs too. The Niagara Region is one of Canada's prime agricultural areas. Rich mineral soils and the moderating effects of Lakes Erie and Ontario are two factors contributing to the excellent growing conditions. The Niagara Escarpment also creates a microclimate that allows the growing of tender fruit such as apricots, peaches and premium wine grapes. Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment work together to create an air flow "heat pump" that optimizes growing conditions throughout the spring, summer and fall.
If you want to add a good hike and some quality nature experiences, the Niagara Region boasts over 44 trails and paths including the Bruce Trail. These include the Welland Canal Corridor on which you can cycle, skate, or walk amidst the giant lake liners that populate one of the worlds largest and most famous series of maritime locks. The Welland Canal Corridor is part of the Greater Niagara Circle Route, a 100-mile excursion that follows the north shore of Lake Erie, the Niagara River, the south shore of Lake Ontario and the Welland Canal. This Route is abundant with vistas, activities and opportunities to fascinate every traveller.
