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

Open Art Studio

Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre

1086 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7B2

Pay at the door programming, the first sunday of every month between 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Now thru October 31

Guided Drift Boat Trips

Fly Water Guiding

17 Alexander Avenue, Paris, ON N3L 2V6

$595 for one or two anglers, email or call to book

November 18

Brantford Canal Walk

Loop at the end of Beach Road, Brantford ON

Date & Time: Nov 18th, 10:30am Easy walking route, but long Free event, no registration...

Now thru December 31

Artful Adventure Workshop

Williams Mill Creative Arts Studios

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

$85, A RESERVATION is required for Artful Adventures. Email paulinegladstone@icloud.com to book and confirm a...

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 December 31

Workshop & Retreat

Art Gallery of Hamilton

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

Workshops & Retreats available for a minimum of 15 people, maximum of 75. Have a...

Now thru December 31

Barn Door Studio Private Workshops

The Barn Door Studio

158 Main St E #156, Milton, ON L9T 1N6

A booking is needed prior to the workshop. To book a private party all they...

Now thru November 30

Thrill Package

Upright Aviation Academy

5296 Bell School Line, Burlington ON, L7M 0P1

Thrill Packages can be arranged for single or groups and you can event request extra...

Now thru December 31

Friends & Family

iFLY Toronto

2007 Winston Park Drive, Oakville, Ontario, ON, L6H 6P5

10 Flights x 5 Flyers 10 flights to share - Up to 5 people From...

Now thru January 1

Woodland Cultural Centre – Virtual Museum Tour

Woodland Cultural Centre

184 Mohawk Street, Brantford, ON, N3T 5V6

Now thru December 31

Sketching Thursdays

McMaster Museum of Art

McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L6

Now thru October 1, 2023

Glen Morris Trip

Grand River Rafting Company

181 Bethel Rd, Paris, On N3L 3E3

The Glen Morris to Paris trip is 11kms (7 miles). Beginners can do this trip...

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