Categories: Travel

This 500-year-old heritage tree in Ontario is older than Canada itself

Photo via Wikimedia

Did you know that one of Canada’s oldest living residents is over 500 years old? And no, it’s not a human. The Comfort Maple is not only the Niagara region’s conversation starter, but it’s also believed to be the oldest and finest sugar maple in Canada.

This stunning work of nature is a magnificent display in all seasons and is protected by the Ontario Heritage Act.

The Ontario Forestry Association estimates that the Comfort Maple is between 400 and 500 years old, making it the oldest tree of its kind anywhere in Canada.

You’ll find its roots in the town of Pelham, and according to the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), it spans 24.4 metres at its crown with a trunk circumference of 6 metres.

It supposedly “symbolizes Canada’s strength and tradition.”

Tourism Niagara shares that its limbs “feel like they stretch for miles.” So you can just picture how huge this tree truly is.

“Originally in an area of hardwood forest, this tree’s size and shape suggest the forest was cleared when the tree was still young, likely for agricultural purposes,” shares the NPCA.

“The 0.2-hectare area was part of the land purchased by the Comfort family in 1816 and was later entrusted to the NPCA to conserve this ‘old growth’ tree for its historical and biological significance.”

It’s a true natural gem! So that being said, if you’re visiting the tree, climbing or hanging on its branches is strictly prohibited.

Help preserve our green spaces and what’s left of them in Ontario!