These trails offer views of rapids and a natural whirlpool in Ontario

Imagine staring down at one of Canada’s most fascinating natural phenomena from a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. That’s exactly what you’ll get to do at the incredible Niagara Glen.

The Niagara Glen is a pristine pocket of the Carolinian Forest.

To get there, you’ll take stairways that wind through rugged hiking paths for a total of four breathtaking kilometers.

As you navigate these Escarpment trails, you’ll be treated to a spectacle of prehistoric rocks, wild flora, and fauna.

But what truly steals the show is the captivating Niagara River Whirlpool.

This natural wonder is at the end of the rapids where the Niagara Gorge abruptly turns counterclockwise.

“The river’s abrupt change of direction creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomena,” says Niagara Parks.

Picture yourself standing at its edge, marveling at the powerful rapids and the whirlpool’s mesmerizing movement. It’s pretty exquisite!

As you venture deeper into the Niagara Glen, you’ll discover a living history book dating back 400 million years.

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This enchanted forest is one of the last strongholds of the old-growth Carolinian Forest in the Niagara region.

Towering trees, some of the largest of their kind, provide sanctuary to nearly 490 species of plants and animals.

Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon ancient fossils from when this land was submerged beneath an ancient sea.

Thanks to the steep inclines, rocky obstacles, and slippery surfaces, these trails range from moderate to difficult.

Also worth noting is that these trails are open from sunrise to sunset, but because of the forest canopies and elevation in some areas, it may get darker sooner than expected.

In short, be mindful of all the potential hazards and enjoy the trails at your own risk.

So seize the day and get ready to be wowed by over 400 million years of natural history!

Niagara Glen

When: Daily from sunrise to sunset
Where: 3050 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls