Niagara Falls is one of the world’s top destinations for nature lovers. There are so many gorgeous trails, waterfalls and wild plants and animals to explore on your trip. If you love nature and want to see one of the best things to do near Niagara Falls, head to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve in the Niagara Gorge. The Niagara Glen has been designated a Nature Reserve since 1992 and is a top destination for anyone visiting Niagara Falls.
This stunning nature-filled spot has plenty of diverse flora, fauna and animals to see and offers hiking in Niagara Falls. It’s the perfect place to head for a day full of getting close to nature, or even for a little break from the tourist attractions.
Here’s what to expect from a trip to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve and why you should add it to your list of things to do near Niagara Falls.
Where Is the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve?
The Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is located in the Niagara Gorge, which you can get to by traveling to 3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, Canada.
You can start your trip at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which overlooks the Niagara River and offers refreshments, souvenirs and a place to buy bouldering permits and supplies.
What Can You Do at the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve?
As mentioned, you can boulder at the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing on boulders. You don’t typically use ropes or harnesses. Instead, you navigate the unique rock formations with your feet and hands.
You can also do lots of hiking in Niagara Falls here. You can walk through 2 miles of trails through the preserved Carolinian Forest. Head here to hike in the fall for a spectacular view as the leaves are changing colors. Take a self-guided hike on the well-marked trails any time you want, or sign up for a guided hike offered from May through August.
The Niagara Glen Nature Reserve offers unique views of the Niagara River natural whirlpool. If you want to complete a hike that gets you close to the Niagara River, you will need to navigate some rocky paths. All Niagara Glen Nature Reserve trails are classified as “moderate,” except for the whirlpool trail, which is considered “difficult” because of the elevation change and navigation.
Be sure to wear proper footwear and outwear to stay safe on all the trails. There’s an elevation change of more than 60m (200 feet), so consult with your physician before embarking on any nature hike, as well.
Be on the lookout for some stone remnants from the glacial age, which appear as massive rock outcroppings. You can take all the photos your heart desires, but fires are not permitted at Niagara Glen Nature Reserve.
If you need to rest, the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve features a picnic area with a scenic outlook.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve?
It’s free to walk through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. If you’re driving there yourself, parking costs around $1USD/$1.25CAD.
Remember These Tips When You Visit the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve
A visit to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is basically free besides parking and provides some of the most stunning scenery you’ll find in Niagara Falls. Just remember:
- Kids and those with mobility issues may have difficulty on some of the trails. You can always visit to see the vantage spots near the Nature Centre.
- Plan for plenty of sunshine to complete your trip. With lots of trails to hike, if you want to complete more than one, try to get here as soon as it opens. Hiking down to the whirlpool is much easier and less time-consuming than going back up, so plan for at least a couple hours of sunlight for when you’re heading back up.
- Know your hiking comfort level. Hikers of all experience levels can find a trail they’ll enjoy at the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. But you should stay safe so you can enjoy the rest of your Niagara Falls trip injury-free. Talk to a Niagara Glen Nature Centre professional to get hiking in Niagara Falls recommendations that fit your comfort level and ability.
There’s nothing that can compare to immersing yourself in nature at Niagara Falls. Head to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve to see why hikers from all over the world love visiting it.
Relax After a Niagara Glen Nature Reserve Hike
After hiking in Niagara Falls, you’ll want a comfortable bed and a warm room to relax in. The Sheraton Fallsview Hotel has you covered. Dive into a Sheraton Signature Bed in every guest room, topped with warm blankets, a cozy duvet and lots of soft pillows.
You can also plan for some spa time after your hike. Pair your spa day with breathtaking views of Niagara Falls at the Christienne Fallsview Spa. It’s a spa experience unlike any other!
Complete your Niagara Falls nature trip with a stay at the Sheraton Fallsview. Book your Niagara Falls hotel now.