Did you know? From the end of school to Labour Day, there are just 10 weekends to squeeze in all your summer fun! Discover nature close to home at HCA’s 15+ conservation areas, 180+ kilometres of trails, and four beaches. With so much to do right here in your own backyard, you won’t need to travel far to make the most of the summer. Explore HCA and fill your summer with a different adventure every week.
Below is a list of 10 areas and what you can find to help get your summer planning started!
Valens Lake
Spend the day, a weekend, or the whole summer! Valens Lake offers tent and trailer camping, and even cabin rentals. The lake is perfect for paddling or fishing, and there’s a sandy beach to soak up the sun and go for a swim. Enjoy a hike or bike ride on the 10 kilometres of trails, which feel as if you’re up north even when you’re only 30 minutes outside of the city. Learn more about Valens Lake.
Christie Lake
There’s no better place to enjoy a day out this summer. Christie Lake checks all the boxes: sandy beach, hiking, paddling, fishing, bike trails, and even a disc golf course! Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch under a shady tree or at one of the many picnic tables throughout the area. Learn more about Christie Lake.
Fifty Point
You’d never know you’re just off the QEW in Winona once you enter the conservation area. Fifty Point welcomes you with a stunning view over the pond, which is perfect for fishing. The area offers trailer camping as well as a full-service marina. Enjoy the beautiful Lake Ontario beach, and if you get hungry, check out Limani at the Marina where you can enjoy a meal as you watch the boats heading in and out of the marina. Learn more about Fifty Point.
Dundas Valley
You’ll never run out of adventures in Dundas Valley! With over 40 kilometres of trails, you can return again and again and enjoy something new each time. Points of interest along the many trails include the Trail Centre and train cars, Hermitage Ruins, Basadinaa Experience, Canterbury Falls, and Groundhog Hill. Learn more about Dundas Valley.
Confederation Beach Park
Take a walk or bike ride on the paved trail as you enjoy in the views of Lake Ontario. Cool down with a swim at the beach, Lakeland Pool, or even Wild Waterworks. Kids will love the splashpad at Lakeland, or further east, the ship-themed playground. Adventure Village offers endless family or date night fun. Hungry? Stop by Baranga’s on the Beach or Hutch’s to fill you up. Learn more about Confederation Beach Park.
Spencer Gorge
The Spencer Gorge offers two stunning waterfalls, and a brilliant view of the city and gorge below at Dundas Peak. At Webster Falls, you can view the waterfall at two lookouts and explore the beautiful surrounding parkland through which the Spencer Creek flows before going over the falls. Enjoy the view of Tew Falls from the two wooden platforms before heading out on a hike to Dundas Peak. Appreciate even more views of the gorge from a viewing platform along the trail. Once you reach the Peak, you’ll be able to see from Ancaster, all the way to Hamilton Harbour. There is truly nowhere else in the city to enjoy these views. Learn more about Spencer Gorge.
Westfield Heritage Village
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the past and onto the trails. Westfield is open seven days a week to explore the Village and trails. The newly expanded trail system features accessible, wide, and flat trails through forested areas and open meadows. Come on Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM and you will be able to explore a selection of the historical buildings and interact with costumed interpreters. Learn more about Westfield Heritage Village.
Saltfleet & Devil's Punchbowl
Take an adventure from Saltfleet to the Devil’s Punchbowl via the Dofasco 2000 Trail! From the Saltfleet parking lot, it is approximately a 2 kilometre hike to the Devil’s Punchbowl. On your way, you can view the new Saltfleet wetlands before reaching the Dofasco 2000 Trail. Once you reach the Devil’s Punchbowl check out the impressive view of the City of Hamilton, Lake Ontario, and of course, the Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall! Learn more about Saltfleet, Dofasco 200 Trail, and Devil’s Punchbowl.
Eramosa Karst
This ecological gem is waiting for you to explore this summer. In addition to forests and meadows, Eramosa Karst features streams, caves, karst features. In addition to the over 7 kilometres of trails, the area also provides access to the East Mountain Trail Loop. Pack a picnic, or enjoy a snack at one of the covered picnic tables at the area entrance. Learn more about the Eramosa Karst.
Fletcher Creek
Another gem waiting to be explored is Fletcher Creek Ecological Preserve. The area is the site of an old quarry that was rehabilitated, creating a rare type of wetland, a Fen. The crystal clear water is a sight to be seen as you enjoy a hike through the areas coniferous and deciduous trees, and across the boardwalk. Learn more about Fletcher Creek.
Explore HCA this summer!
We hope you enjoy getting out and exploring all HCA has to offer this summer and beyond! Make visiting even easier with an HCA Membership or purchase an advance day pass here.
