Take a scenic tour along Halton Region’s rural roads to discover exceptional beauty that can only exist in a place where incredible nature meets small-town charm and heritage. Visit hamlets, farms, shops and cafes, and make memories that will last a lifetime with this two-day touring itinerary.

When exploring our region’s trails, waterfalls and conservation areas, please follow posted safety rules, stay on marked trails and do not climb or bypass fencing. Stay at least a body length away from escarpment and gorge edges and always be alert for potential hazards such as falling rocks and slippery rock surfaces.

  • Hamilton
    Hilton Falls
    Hamilton

    Day 1

    Hilton Falls features:

    • A captivating 10-metre waterfall
    • Access to the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
    • Access to the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath
    • Stone ruins of a 19th century saw mill
    • 33.5 km of trails for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing
    • 18 km of tough terrain for mountain biking
    • A vast network of wetlands and forest that provide excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing

    450 million years in the making, years of erosion from melting glaciers, ancient rivers and lakes led to the formation of Hilton Falls and surrounding area, creating craggy cliffs, rugged slopes and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that is now home to a myriad of native plants and wildlife.

    Today Hilton Falls welcomes explorers of all ages throughout all seasons to come and discover the geological phenomenon using the park’s 33.5 km trail system. Six distinctive trails wind their way through lush forests and wetlands, allowing visitors to explore the area by foot, bike or cross-country skis. Three trails are designated for hiking and cross-country skiing, and three are for mountain biking only.

    The 4-km Hilton Falls Trail takes about 1.25 hours to hike and follows old logging roads and earthen paths through wondrous, widespread forests. It is the only trail in the park that leads to the stunning 10-metre waterfall and mysterious 19th century mill ruins.

    The falls area has resting benches and interpretive signs highlighting the historical, natural and cultural side of the falls. Picnic tables are set up nearby and guests are encouraged to enjoy their lunch in the serenity of the park.

    Explore More at Hilton Falls
    The 3-km Red Oak Trail takes 45 minutes to hike and ascents the escarpment landscape on old logging roads that surround the Hilton Falls Reservoir. For an extended hike, head out on the 9.5-km Beaver Dam Trail. This 2-hour hike takes you along an extensive loop through wetlands and beaver meadows in the northern section of the park, crossing several headwater areas of the Sixteen Mile Creek.

    The Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath, meanders through the park, finding its way to the tip of the Hilton Falls Trail, leading hikers to the Hilton Falls Reservoir. Two tributaries of the Sixteen Mile Creek wind their way through the wooded, rocky landscape, flowing into the reservoir and feeding a series of beaver ponds. Anglers love the bounty of large-mouth bass found here.

    Mountain bikers can find hours of adrenalin pumping fun on the Bent Rim (5 km), Single Track (7 km) and Wandering Lynx Backcountry (6.5 km) trails. Consisting of mostly rock and dirt surfaces, as well as bridges and loops, it is recommended bikers come prepared with extra tire tubes and tools when venturing out on this tough terrain.

    Once you’ve experienced Hilton Falls, head north on Guelph Line to Halton County Radial Railway, Ontario’s first and largest electric railway museum.
    Known to many as the Streetcar Museum, this full-size operating electric railway and museum is home to equipment that dates back to 1901. Visitors are encouraged to ride the rails of the historic electric railcars that operate on two kilometres of scenic track. Plan to spend 1-1.5 hours at this historic site meandering from train car to train car. A stop-in at the lovely gift shop of inspired gifts and tasty treats, including an ice cream is a must during your visit.

    Those visiting from June-September are rewarded by the sweet scents of lavender at Terre Bleu Lavender Farm, the largest of its kind in Ontario. Here you’ll see incredible views of hues of lavender, and have the opportunity to learn about the cultivation of lavender, bees, the production of essential oils, honey and more. Guests can also choose to participate in lifestyle classes and activities, like yoga, arts and crafts, equestrian demos and musical performances. Be sure to stop in at the gift shop for locally made artisan gifts and sweet treats, like lavender ice cream. Shutterbugs will love capturing magnificent shots of this incredible sight.

    As an alternative for lodging, the KOA Toronto West Campground is adjacent to the inn and offers year-round camping and glamping.

  • Day 2

    Begin your day exploring the world’s largest antique-leaded stained glass store and museum, The Stonehouse of Campbellville. The shop boasts a display of almost 2,500 antique stained glass windows, a gallery and a store where visitors can purchase these treasures. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the Christmas Festival of Lights. Every year the Stonehouse puts on a huge display with lights, music, animated boxes and more.

    Stop in at the Flying Monkey Bike Shop and Coffee Bar in Campbellville for refreshments. Enjoy the atmosphere and chat with locals as you sip on a delicious latte or espresso.

    The Village of Campbellville is a charming destination for heritage seekers with its ‘old world’ atmosphere and the preservation of heritage buildings – one of which was intended as an opera house. For antique hounds, it is widely known for its several and unusual antique shops.

    Just south on Guelph Line, approximately 4 km, take a scenic ride to Stonehaven Farms. Nestled in a picturesque pocket of the Niagara Escarpment, it is one of the region’s home grown farms boasting delicious selections of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The on-site bakery will tempt you with a host of baked goods and gourmet foods. Seasonal strawberry and pumpkin picking is offered as a “pick-your-own” option for those seeking a real farm experience.

    Next, take Guelph Line South to Derry Road (Halton Regional Road #7). Turn left on Derry Road, travelling eastbound, and feel surrounded by the beauty of the landscape, as the view of the escarpment is remarkable.

    One of the most iconic views in the region can be found at Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, Halton’s hidden gem. With its 12 km of trails and spectacular lookouts dotting the edge of towering cliffs, the park offers some of the best hiking and scenic viewing available on the Niagara Escarpment. Adventurers can take to the cliffs for an amazing rock climb with experienced outfitters such as One Axe Pursuits.

    As you pass Bell School Line, travelling a few kilometres east, notice on the right hand side a large white circular structure. It’s the velodrome that held cycling competitions during the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games. Known as the Mattamy National Cycling Centre, this landmark venue is the cornerstone of cycling in Canada. Inside features a 250-metre Category 1 Homologated (certified) Cycling Track.

    Take a quick tour along Termaine, travelling northwest. Make a right onto Main Street and follow the street until you’re in historic downtown Milton.

    Park your car anywhere along Mill Street, James Street, or Main Street South. Drop by the Milton Historical Society Waldie Blacksmith Shop for a chance to step back in time. They are open mid-March through to December, every Wednesday and Saturday 10 am- noon. This is a fascinating museum of local preservation and artifacts.

    The Town of Milton offers many historical tidbits for you to explore. Try a fascinating self-guided walking tour, or stroll through old Milton and its historic designated buildings and homes. Stop by the Town Hall for a sneak peek at the enchanting gardens on the grounds, just off Mary Street.

    Dine in historic Downtown Milton at one of the delicious eateries that are situated in heritage buildings along Main Street East and spend some time exploring the unique boutiques and shops.

    For the last stop of the trip, head north to Halton Hills for a visit to Andrews’ Winery and Andrews’ Scenic Acres. Relax and unwind while sampling award-winning wines at the Mennonite-constructed barn house, and be sure to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables at the on-site farmers’ market—the perfect way to end your stay in Halton Region.

Travel Deals View All >>

Experiences & Tours View All >>

Now thru December 31

Watercolour Painting and Drawing Instruction for all Levels with Marlene Madole

Williams Mill Creative Arts Studios

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

For scheduled 1-Day Workshops and Classes, or to talk about Private or Semi-Private Lessons, call...

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...

November 1

Botany and the Ecology of the Tea Plant

Royal Botanical Gardens

680 Plains Road West, Burlington, ON, L7T 4H4

Online from 12:15pm - 12:45pm. Pre-registration required. Fee: $10 (RBG Members 10% off*) Sign up...

October 15

Heritage Workshop: Needle Felting

Ireland House Museum

2168 Guelph Line, Burlington, ON, L7P 5A8

Date & Time: Oct 15, 1:00pm - 4:00pm Fees: Member: $54.00 Non-members: $60.00 This workshop...

December 27 - January 7

Winter Break Drop-In Activity Centre: Dig It! Archaeology 101 with the Hamilton Children’s Museum

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology – National Historic Site

900 Woodward Avenue, Hamilton, ON

Closed Mondays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day. Time: 12:00 PM - 4:00...

Now thru December 31

Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing

One Axe Pursuits

7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON, L9T 2Y1

$1000 + HST, up to 4 participants Additional participants: $250 + HST per person Duration:...

Now thru October 31

Baby Goats!

Triple C Farm

500 Carluke Road West, Ancaster, ON, Canada, L9G 3L1

October 26 - 27

Murder, Mystery and Mayhem Walking Tour

57 Charlotte Street, Brantford ON

Date & Time: Oct 26 & 27, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Ticket Price: $15.00

Now thru December 31

Romance Couples Retreat

Six Nations Tourism

2498 Chiefswood Road, Ohsweken, ON, N0A 1M0

Now thru December 31

The Heritage Walking Tour

Ancaster Village BIA

314 Wilson Street East, Ancaster, ON, L9G2B8

Self-guided, free, no booking required

Similar Stories View All >>

Fall For Each Other: A Romantic Two-Day Road Trip Around Hamilton Halton Brant

Treat your fam to two days of non-stop fun!

Read More

A Fresh Fall Family Adventure in Hamilton Halton Brant

Treat your fam to two days of non-stop fun!

Read More

A Colourful Fall Road Trip With Friends around Hamilton Halton Brant

Pack your bags for a relaxed adventure with your BFFs.

Read More

Plan a Couples Paddling Getaway You’ll BOTH Love

Plan A Paddling Escape For 2

Read More

The Getaway Gang 6 Ways To Plan An Amazing Last-Minute Camping Trip With Friends

Creative ways to find a campsite.

Read More

Water, Land, Air: Find Unexpected New Ways For Your Family To Play This Summer

Family Fun 3 Ways

Read More

Can’t-Miss Foodie Getaways

Delicious Restaurant & Room Pairings

Read More

Escape To The Country

6 Rural Retreats To Replenish Your Spirit This Spring

Read More

A Taste of Indigenous Traditions

Fun new flavourful ways to explore Indigenous culture.

Read More

The Fab Fall Road Trip Roundup

6 Amazing Autumn Drive Destination

Read More

Save S’more on Spring and Summer Camping

Book A Campsite While You Can

Read More

7 Sensational Stays

Stellar Vacation Rentals

Read More

Get Travel OffersEvent Details and
Planning Ideas for Your Next Trip

Sign up to receive the latest Hamilton Halton Brant travel news delivered right to your inbox.