The Basadinaa Experience, a new Indigenous-led trail signage journey, is now open in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area. Sharing stories of deep cultural and historic significance, the HCA worked in partnership with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN), Six Nations of the Grand River, project partners, and funding partners to bring this unique project to life.
Basadinaa is Anishinaabemowin, the language spoken by the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, meaning “in the valley”. Ohrón:wakon is Kanyen’kéha, the language spoken by Six Nations of the Grand River, also translates to “in the valley”. Anishinaabemowin and Kanyen’kéha are both highlighted throughout this experience to honour the knowledge shared by each nation, and to help educate and deepen understanding of their cultures.
Indigenous Nations have lived on and cared for this land since time immemorial, shaping what is now called Ontario with their diverse cultures, knowledge, and traditions. HCA lies within the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee Nations, who have stewarded these lands for generations.
The Indigenous heritage of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations communities comes to life throughout the Basadinaa Experience. The trail meanders through Territory No. 3, and the signage provides opportunities for reflection, learning, and connection with the land through First Nations perspectives. Visitors are encouraged to take their time and approach the trail with openness and gratitude.
Interpretive Panel Topics
- Basadinaa “in the valley”
- Between the Lakes Treaty No. 3
- Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address
- Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel
- Mohawk Portage Route
- Haudenosaunee Creation Story
- Grandmother Moon
- The Great Tree of Peace
- Sugar Maples & The Maple Syrup Process
- Birds
- Wildlife
- Turtles
- Water
Basadinaa Experience Location
The signage is located along the Mail Loop Trail in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, and begins at the access point from the Trail Centre, although visitors may begin their journey anywhere along the Main Loop Trail. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, reflect, and walk the path with openness and curiosity. It’s not just a hike—it’s an immersive cultural journey.
Project Partners
The Basadinaa Experience is a collaborative effort that has been made possible with the contributions and support of several organizations and individuals. We extend our deep gratitude to the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Six Nations of the Grand River, Manoomin Learning, and McMaster University. The Mohawk language has been provided by Alyssa General. The Anishinaabe language has been provided by our Indigenous Partners. The artistic talents of Kyle Joedicke.
Project funding provided by:
Basadinaa Experience FAQ
Basadinaa is a trail-based storytelling experience located in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area. This collection of interpretive signs shares First Nations stories of cultural and historic significance, rooted in the land and spirit of the Valley. The experience invites visitors to engage with teachings, and the panels include Basadinaa “in the valley”; Between the Lakes Treaty No. 3; Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address; Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel; Mohawk Portage Route; Haudenosaunee Creation Story; Grandmother Moon; The Great Tree of Peace; Sugar Maples & The Maple Syrup Process; Birds; Wildlife; Turtles; and Water.
“Basadinaa” means “in the valley” in Anishinaabemowin. It reflects both the physical location of the experience, and the depth of cultural stories shared along the trail.
This project was created in collaboration with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) and Six Nations of the Grand River, along with guidance and support from community Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural advisors. HCA also partnered with multiple funders and organizations to bring this vision to life. (Additional Partners: Six Nations Polytechnic, Manoomin Learning, McMaster University, Alyssa General, and art by Kyle Joedicke)
HCA worked with our fundraising partner, the Hamilton Conservation Foundation, to secure funding from various organizations, including:
The goal of Basadinaa is to honour and elevate Indigenous voices by sharing stories that have been lived, passed down, and protected by First Nations for generations. It offers an opportunity for all visitors to learn, reflect, and deepen their connection to the land through Indigenous perspectives.
The stories were selected and approved through a respectful and collaborative process led by MCFN and Six Nations. Each sign represents a theme or teaching that holds cultural, spiritual, and ecological importance.
Each sign represents a unique and meaningful teaching. For example:
- The Medicine Wheel speaks to balance, wellness, and the interconnection of life.
- The White Pine is the Tree of Peace and a powerful symbol in Haudenosaunee culture.
- The Thanksgiving Address is a foundational teaching that acknowledges all life and offers gratitude to Creation.
These and other signs provide insight into the deep-rooted relationship between First Nations and the land.
Basadinaa is a step toward reconciliation through action. It fosters awareness, respect, and dialogue by giving space for Indigenous voices and teachings in public places. HCA is committed to ongoing relationship-building with Indigenous communities and sees this project as part of a longer journey of trust, healing, and collaboration.
The signage is located along the Mail Loop Trail in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, and begins at the access point from the Trail Centre, although visitors may begin their journey anywhere along the Main Loop Trail. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, reflect, and walk the path with openness and curiosity. It’s not just a hike—it’s an immersive cultural journey.
This is just the beginning. HCA, MCFN, and Six Nations hope to continue building upon this work with more community-led initiatives, educational programming, and partnerships that elevate Indigenous knowledge and storytelling.
