The port city of Hamilton, Canada is located at the west end of Lake Ontario. The area is known as the Golden Horseshoe and Hamilton is a part of it. There are more than a hundred waterfalls in and around the city. The Toronto-Hamilton region is highly industrialized and is quite developed too. Hamilton is an interesting place and here are a few things to do in Hamilton if you visit.
Visit the waterfalls
One of the coolest reasons to see Hamilton are its waterfalls. There are so many to visit and see here. Most of them are near or on Bruce Trail as it goes through the Niagara Escarpment. The most scenic one is Webster’s Falls. It has a crest of 30 meters and is the largest within the city. It is known for its panoramic views and it is a classical curtain plunge waterfall.
Tew’s is a ribbon waterfall with a height of 41 meters. This is one of the tallest in the area. Both Webster’s and Tew’s lieson the Spencer Gorge. Albion Falls is a cascade waterfall and the rocks from this are used in the Royal Botanical Gardens. A lot of the falls are accessible via the Chedoke Radial Trail. Take a day trip or more to see all of them and you will not be disappointed.
Scenic hike
The Hamilton area is known for its beauty and hiking trails along the Niagara Escarpment. They can be explored throughout the whole year but it gets prettier during the fall season. The Christie Lake Conservation Area has many trails. One can explore the trails that go on for about 10 kilometers throughpine forests and meadows. The 336-hectare conservation area is home to many wild animals.
The lakes are stocked with trout for fishing and you can access the area by foot or cross-country shoes. The Dundas Peak is another area that can be explored by hiking. The peak is a famous lookout and there are two waterfalls nearby. Sassafras Point Trail, Spencer Adventure Trail and Water down Wetland Trail are some more options for hiking.
See the historic site
The Dundurn National Historic Site is a beautiful place to see on your trip to Hamilton. The Dundurn Castle- a stunning villa was built in the 1830s and is immersed in history. The costumed staff grow herbs flowers and vegetables in the historic kitchen garden. A lot of events are held here and you can participate in them.
Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King
The roman catholic cathedral was built during the 1930s and has been renovated a few times. The interior is 13th century gothic style and has a solid marble floor. There are 82 stained glass windows that depict the New Testament scenes. It is a historic landmark and you can explore the interiors or admire it from the outside. You can also book a Hamilton Limo if you have family along and use it the whole day to see most of Hamilton.
Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens are located in Hamilton and are a local horticultural, scientific and conservation resource. There are 5 cultivated gardens, 27 kilometers of nature trails and houses plants and animals as well. They hold activity and discovery tours as well as courses and programs. Some special events such as riding the RBG express or winter wonders are also held here and require tickets.
The Great Trail
The Trans Canada Trail or the Great Trail has a trail system that is 24,000 kilometers long. It can be an exciting adventure trip for you and your friends if you are into scenic bike rides. It is one of the best things to do in Hamilton.
