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 >>

Now thru December 31

Road to the Ridge: Taste of the Escarpment

Tasty Road Trips Food Tours

Paris, Ontario

Tour Details: This tour is a 4.5 hour all-inclusive self-guided tour with all food, sips,...

Now thru April 28

Special Exhibition – How can I know you?

Art Gallery of Burlington

1333 Lakeshore Road , Burlington, ON, L7S 1A9

Exhibition Dates: Jan 19th to Apr 28th

Now thru May 29

Dance Fitness with Mindfulness & Movement

Dundas Museum & Archives

139 Park Street West, Dundas, ON, L9H 1X8

Dates: Every Wednesday and Saturday (Unless otherwise stated) Times: 7:00pm to 8:00pm Class Price: $10.00...

April 21

Downtown Oakville: Wellness Week 2024 – Free Class: Hot Sculpt

178 Lakeshore Rd E Oakville, ON L6J 1H6

Date & Time: Apr 21st Two Sessions Available - 12:00pm to 1:00pm and 6:00pm to...

Now thru December 31

Hamilton Civic Museums Virtual Tours

28 James St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 1A1

Now thru June 26

Trivia Nights at Shawn & Ed Brewing Co.

Shawn & Ed Brewing Co.

65 Hatt Street, Dundas, ON, L9H 0C1

Dates & Times: Every Wednesday (Unless otherwise), 7:00pm - 8:30pm Free but reservations are recommended

Now thru September 17

Datenight Painting for 2 at Studio K2

studio k2

The Cotton Factory, DyeWorks Building, 9 Landsdowne Avenue, Hamilton

Date & Time: Third Saturday every month, 7:00pm - 10:00pm Workshop Price: $135/couple +HST includes...

May 18 - October 13

On The Water with Six Nations Tourism

Six Nations Tourism

2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken, ON, N0A 1M0

Season Dates: May 18th to Oct 13th Length: 3 hours. All tours must be booked...

Now thru January 1

Museums Burlington Online Galleries

Joseph Brant Museum

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

April 21

Downtown Oakville: Wellness Week 2024 – Free Class: Hot HIIT Pilates

178 Lakeshore Rd E Oakville, ON L6J 1H6

Dates & Times: Apr 21st 2 Sessions Available: 10:00am to 11:00am or 4:00pm to 5:00pm...

Now thru December 31

Music Bingo at Flux

Flux Brewing Company

185 Oakland Rd, Scotland, ON N0E 1R0

Date & Time: January 17th (1st bingo night of the year) $5 cover to join

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