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.

Travel Deals View All >>

Experiences & Tours View All >>

April 12 - 19

Ceramic Buttons/Stitch Markers Workshop

Monika Schaefer Pottery & Fibre Art Studio

2 Palomino Dr, Carlisle, ON a L0R 1H3

2-day workshop: Wedensday April 12 AND Wednesday April 19, 2-5pm both days, in Monika Schaefer...

Now thru December 31

Coffee & Colours Adult Classes

Williams Mill Creative Arts Studios

515 Main Street, Glen Williams, ON, L7G 3S9

Reservation is required for Coffee & Colours. Email paulinegladstone@icloud.com to book and confirm a date...

Now thru April 7

Maple Syrup Season at Westfield Heritage Village

Westfield Heritage Village

1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, ON, L0R 1X0

Each reservation is for a 2-hour time slot, includes parking for one vehicle, and are...

May 13

Mother’s Day Tea: Historic Cooking Workshop

Dundurn Castle – National Historic Site

610 York Boulevard, Hamilton, ON, L8R 3H1

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 14+ years, $60 per person. Pre-registration is required.

Now thru June 1

Downtown Hamilton Walking Tour

Tour Guys

36 Hunter St. E., Hamilton, ON L8N 3W8

Now thru January 1

Museums Burlington Online Galleries

Joseph Brant Museum

1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, ON, L7S 1C5

Now thru April 4

Yoga at the Gardens

Royal Botanical Gardens

680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON, Canada

Now thru December 31

A Day of Play Experience

Six Nations Tourism

2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken, ON N0A 1M0

Price: $70.00/person for a group of less than 20; $60.00/person for a group of 20...

April 8 - 22

Ceramic Buttons/Stitch Markers Workshop

Monika Schaefer Pottery & Fibre Art Studio

2 Palomino Dr, Carlisle, ON a L0R 1H3

2-day workshop: Saturday April 8 AND Saturday April 22, 2-5pm both days, in Monika Schaefer...

Now thru March 26, 2023

Treewalk Village in Winter

Treetop Trekking

5050 Harrison Rd, Binbrook, ON L0R 1C0

Now thru January 5

AGH Virtual Tours: Fridays at Four

Art Gallery of Hamilton

123 King Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8P 4S8

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