Niagara is a treasure trove of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and scenic routes. Whether you’re looking to explore by bike, hike through lush trails, or experience the thrill of the water, there is plenty to see and do and these unique ways of exploring should be part of everyone’s itinerary.
Maps & Planning Your Journey
Before setting out on your adventure, it’s essential to have a good lay of land. Made up of 12 individual cities & towns, Niagara is an expansive and lush landscape to explore in a variety of ways.
The Greater Niagara Circle Route is a trails system that spans over 140km of off-road, paved trails. The region has provided an expansive map that can be found HERE that highlights the main cycling and hiking trails.
The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, with a total of 3600km with 1300km of signed cycling trails, is an excellent adventure that offers scenic routes throughout Niagara.
Cycling Through Niagara
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Niagara Region, with its extensive network of scenic bike routes that cater to all levels of cyclists. Ontario by Bike offers a wealth of information specific to Niagara HERE. Niagara Region also provides a helpful cycling map HERE to help in selecting your ideal route.
Many local businesses in Niagara are cycling-friendly, offering amenities and services tailored to cyclists. And depending on the route you select, you might get to ride Bridge-It, a small ferry specifically to aid cyclists (and pedestrians) to get between the east and west sides of the Welland Canal.
Hiking Adventures
If you prefer exploring on foot, the Niagara Region offers some of the most stunning hiking trails in Ontario. Exploring the Niagara Escarpment, referred to as Gchi-Bimadinaa (The Great Cliff That Runs Along) is a stunning exploration of the lands. For a highlight of the Indigenous culture and the Niagara Escarpment, learn more here.
The Bruce Trail: As Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, the Bruce Trail provides unmatched access to the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Stretching over 890 km with additional side trails, it’s a must for any hiking enthusiast. Start your journey here.
Niagara Parks: Offering a variety of nature activities, including hiking, Niagara Parks is the perfect place to connect with the region’s natural beauty. Discover their hiking options here.
Ontario Trails: Niagara: For a comprehensive look at all the trails in the Niagara Region, this resource is invaluable. Explore more here.
Boating & Water Adventures
The waterways of Niagara are just as captivating as its land, offering thrilling experiences for those who love the water.
Local Marinas: Whether you need a spot to dock your boat or are looking for rentals, Sugarloaf Marina in Port Colborne is a stunning adventure all on its own, offering kayaking and paddle board rentals, a public boat launch, and is nestled by H.H. Knoll Lakeview Park. The Port Dalhousie Marina in St. Catharines offers a small beach, a stunning pier and is just steps from the downtown core of shops, restaurants and a fabulous local brewery.
Niagara Fishing Adventures: For a more laid-back experience, consider a fishing trip on Niagara’s waters. Find out more about fishing adventures here.
Greater Niagara Boating Club: Visitors are welcome to the clubhouse bar and restaurant, and residents interested in joining a boating community have annual membership options to access other amenities. Learn more here.
If you are interested in renting your own vessel to explore the water for the day, Niagara Boat Rentals operates on Lake Ontario (2 locations) and offers boats, jet skis, kayaking and paddling options.
The Niagara Region offers a diverse range of activities for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re exploring by bike, on foot, or by boat, there’s something for everyone. Use these resources to plan your perfect trip and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful area.
#OneJourneyisNeverEnough
