Dundas Valley Conservation Area

650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E3

Phone: 905-627-1233

Email: dvalley@conservationhamilton.ca

Activities at Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Open 7 days a week, from sunrise to sunset, unless otherwise posted.

Valens Lake
Fifty Point
Christie Lake
Dundas Valley

About Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Please note: photo permits are required for photoshoots in the Dundas Valley. Click here for more information.

The Dundas Valley is one of southern Ontario’s most spectacular natural treasures. Highlights of the 1,200-hectare conservation area include lush Carolinian forests, colourful meadows, cold-water streams, stunning geological formations and an array of rare plants, birds and wildlife.

The area is part of a large glacial valley that spreads out into Lake Ontario. It was excavated by a succession of glaciers that disappeared some 10,000 years ago The landscape that emerged has been shaped by glacial meltwater and, more recently, by streams flowing through the valley.

The rich natural environment existing here and along the Niagara Escarpment has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Additional Access Points

The Dundas Valley has multiple parking lots and access points. These include:

  • Main Parking Lot: 650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON
  • Artaban Road: 720 Artaban Road, Dundas, ON
  • Hermitage: 621 Sulphur Springs Road, Dundas, ON
  • Merrick: 380 Lower Lions Club Road, Ancaster, ON
  • Old Ancaster Road: 856 Old Ancaster Road, Dundas, ON

The 40km  recreational trail system provides access to almost every part of the Dundas Valley and is organized along three major trails: the Main Loop Trail, Bruce Trail and the Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail.

Due to rugged terrain, Dundas Valley recreational trails have limited accessibility. Wheelchair and scooter users are encouraged to use the Rail Trail.

Dundas Valley Trail Map

All dogs in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area and trails MUST be on a leash at all times. Conservation Authority regulations require dogs to be on leash, for the safety of the wildlife of the area, but also for the safety of school groups that are in the Dundas Valley for Environmental Education programs.

Equestrians must also clean up after their animals.

Share the Path: The trail system is shared between a variety of users and enjoyment and safety among diverse group begins with every individual. Please review trail etiquette information.

Cyclists are welcome to use the Dundas Valley multi-use trail system and reminded to stay on marked trails. Please note, cycling is not permitted on the Bruce Trail.

Share the Path: The trail system is shared between a variety of users and enjoyment and safety among diverse group begins with every individual. Please review trail etiquette information.

Equestrians are welcome in the Dundas Valley and on trails. Parking for horse trailers is only available at the main Dundas Valley parking lot, located at 650 Governor’s Road.

You must clean up after your horses.

Share the Path: The trail system is shared between a variety of users and enjoyment and safety among diverse group begins with every individual. Please review trail etiquette information.

The Stacey Meadow Pavilion can accommodate up to 80 people. Its pond side location and fishing platform extends out into the water makes it a lovely spot for group picnics and weddings. The Dundas Valley also offers open meadow areas with picnic tables.

Barbequing is not permitted

Pavilion and Group Area Rentals

The Dundas Valley offers more than 30 exciting outdoor environmental education adventures for students in Grade 1-12. To learn more, visit our education web page.

A replica of a Victorian train station, the Dundas Valley Trail Centre is the hub of the valley’s trail network. The Centre has interpretive displays, brochures and maps detailing the Dundas Valley. It is also the starting point for numerous guided hikes and nature-oriented workshops.

Off-season Hours (washrooms): September to June

Monday to Friday:  9 AM to 2:30 PM
Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 4 PM

Summer Hours: July & August
Weekends: 9:00 AM to 4 PM
Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM

The Hermitage Ruins, located just off the Main Loop Trail, is a popular spot to visit while in the area.The Ruins are a beautiful and picturesque place to stop while on a hike. Click here for more information on the Hermitage Ruins and Gatehouse.

In 2015, construction on the ruins began to stabilize and restore the crumbling structure. More information on the Hermitage Ruins Stabilization and Restoration Project.

The Hermitage Ruins are also available for for wedding ceremonies. Please visit our weddings page for more details.

Area Quick Links

Dundas Valley Conservation Area Image Gallery