This enticing, long loop in Brantford follows the Grand River south through Waterworks Park, crosses over at Brant’s Crossing, and then follows the river back upstream. Described as “18k of awesome”, the route has everything — beautiful forest and remnant tall grass prairie, excellent bird watching, and great people watching. It contrasts the buzz of urban hiking with the peace of rural solitude, and features historical sites as well as natural wonders.

Wilkes Dam

Itinerary Highlights

  • Length: 18 kilometres
  • Level of Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length of Time: 4 to 6 hours
  • Points of Interest: Birdwatching, Grand River, Wilkes Dam, Brant prairie, Brant’s Crossing

Download the detailed loop guide to learn more and plan your hike.

Download Loop Guide


Hamilton and Area Hikes Series

The Hamilton region has become known as the “Waterfall Capital of the World”, and hikers have made tracks here only to find that the area provides much more to explore. The waterfalls are just the beginning of what makes Hamilton a haven for hikers, and memorable day hikes in the area can reveal stunning Carolinian forests, abundant wildlife, spectacular vistas, and historic villages.

The Hamilton and Area Hikes series is your “step by step” guide to six different day hikes that explore conservation areas, the Niagara Escarpment, the Bruce Trail and the Grand River. Each loop hike includes a detailed map, precise directions, local lore, information about the flora, fauna, and history you are likely to encounter, and après hike suggestions.

Don’t miss the other loops in the series:

These loops are just the beginning of the scenic walkabouts that await in Hamilton Halton Brant. We’ve got hundreds of miles of paths and trails where you can treat your feet to a few hours of adventure.

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Now thru October 13

A Day of Play: Traditional Indigenous Games

Six Nations Tourism

2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken, ON N0A 1M0

Season Dates: May 18th to Oct 13th Price: $70.00/person for a group of less than...

Now thru December 6

Poetry Night at Dog-Eared Cafe

Dog-Eared Cafe

121 Grand River St N, Paris, ON

Dates and Times: 1st Fri of every month - 6:30pm to 9:30pm

Now thru October 29

Grand Experiences: 4-Hour Guided Tour

Grand Experiences Outdoor Adventure Company

113 Grand River Street North, Paris

Date & Times: Every day, starting at 9:30am Price: varies depending on choice of boat

Now thru July 27

Wandering Wellness Adventure Series

Up Yoga & Wellness

100 Dundas St. East, Paris Ontario

Dates and Times: Jul 13th and July 27th - 10:30am to 4:30pm Price: $250/person (save...

Now thru October 2

Bronte Historical Society Walk & Talk History

Bronte Village BIA

Sovereign House, 7 West River Street, Oakville

Dates: Jun 26th, Jul 10th, Jul 24th, Aug 7th, Aug 21st, Sep 4th, Sep 18th,...

Now thru September 8

Kelso Cove Waterpark

Kelso Conservation Area / Glen Eden

5234 Kelso Road, Milton, ON, L9T 2X7

Waterpark Ticket Price (not including gate admission): $25.00 Open daily from 11:00 am - 7:00...

August 19

Whisper to the Moon

Chiefswood National Historic Site

1037 Highway 54, Ohsweken, ON, N0A 1M0

Date and Time: Aug 19th - 6:30pm to 12:00am Price: $99 per person

Now thru December 31

Brant Eats

Brant Tourism

31 Mechanic St, Paris, ON N3L 1K1

For your enjoyment all-year round!

Now thru August 18

Pick Your Own Blueberries at Northfield Blueberries

Northfield Blueberries

101 Middle Townline Rd, Scotland, ON N0E 1R0

Picking Season: mid-Jul to mid-Aug Call ahead to check picking conditions!

Now thru July 27

Wandering Wellness Summer Retreat Series

Up Yoga & Wellness

100 Dundas St. East, Paris Ontario

Dates & Times: Jul 13th & 27th, 10:30am to 4:30pm Event Price: $250.00 per person

Now thru December 15

Afternoon Tea at Arlington Hotel

Arlington Hotel

106 Grand River Street North, Paris, ON, N3L 2M5

Dates and Times: every 3rd Sunday from 11:00am to 3:00pm Price: $35 per person, $19...

Now thru October 13

Chiefswood National Historic Site Tours

Chiefswood National Historic Site

1037 Highway 54, Ohsweken, ON, N0A 1M0

Dates and Times: May 21st to Oct 13th (Tues-Sun) - 10:00am to 4:00pm Cost: Self...

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