Exploring the Niagara River Recreational Trail

As the cooler weather sets in, walking is a favourite pastime for many in Niagara-on-the-Lake. A brisk hike through the crisp leaves is a wonderful way to keep up the active lifestyle you may have enjoyed during the summer months. The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a beautiful path that makes exploration easy and pleasant. Nearly 60 kilometres in length, it stretches along the Canadian side of the Niagara River. This season, the Niagara River Recreational Trail got a special treat!

Trans Canada Trail Markers

Visitors to Niagara-on-the-Lake are set to see some welcome additions to the region’s favourite trail.  14 new markers will be installed along the full length of the route — from the Trans Canada pavilion in Fort Erie to Paradise Grove in Niagara-on-the-Lake. These markers were designed to recognize the Niagara trail’s connection to the larger, Trans Canada trail.  And it was Valerie Pringle, board member of the Trans Canada Trail, who helped make this possible. These markers will be helpful in guiding hikers and cyclists for years to come!

Why take the Niagara River Recreation Trail?

Many hikers and cyclists prefer to enjoy nature’s beauty — without the craziness of cars zipping by.  Not only is the hum of engines distracting, fast-moving vehicles can certainly be dangerous. That’s why this trail is a safe alternative. The paved path is off-limits to cars and trucks, allowing you to focus on the stillness of nature. Meanwhile, many of the restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake offer bike racks on the premises. This allows visitors to enjoy an entire day cycling on the trail, with convenient meal breaks along the way.

Historic Jaunt to Queenston

The Niagara River Recreational Trail begins at Niagara-on-the-Lake and meanders southwards to the town of Queenston.  It follows one of Ontario’s oldest roads — famously taken by Major-General Sir Isaac Brock. More than 200 years ago, he galloped along the Parkway to his long-awaited destiny. Imagine yourself as Brock on a wet, cold October morning and take this route to the Heights of Queenston — Brock’s final resting place.