August is the perfect time to explore your province, especially as we reach summer’s end. Let’s not get too ahead of ourselves; after all, there are still a few weeks left of summer fun. That being said, if you love sightseeing, venturing through forests and being one with nature, you have to hit up the Dofasco 2000 Trail on Hamilton’s East Mountain. Here’s what to know.
What to know about the Dofasco 2000 Trail
According to Hamilton Conservation Authority, this scenic 11.5-km multi-use trail is a hidden gem right on Hamilton’s East Mountain, and it’s packed with amazing sights to see.
There are two main access points and parking lots for the Dofasco 2000 Trail. These are the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area and Saltfleet Conservation Area.
It really doesn’t matter which one you choose to start at. You will embark on a memorable adventure nonetheless.
Start your journey at the breathtaking Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area, where you’re greeted with panoramic views of Hamilton and the seemingly bottomless Punchbowl.
“The Devil’s Punchbowl is one of the Niagara Escarpment’s most amazing sights, created at the end of the last ice age by huge meltwater rivers that plunged over the Stoney Creek Escarpment, thus carving the Punchbowl and gorge,” says the Hamilton Conservation Authority.
The trail will then pass an apple and cherry orchard and access to the Bruce Trail, which connects the Dofasco 2000 Trail to the Battlefield House Museum & Park below the escarpment.
“The Dofasco 2000 Trail passes through the beautiful rural countryside of Stoney Creek, with a 1.7-kilometre boardwalk section through the Vinemount Swamp, an environmentally significant swamp forest,” shares the site.
You’ll eventually get to the Saltfleet Conservation Area, which provides a home for 50 species of breeding birds.
The 55 hectares of marshy fields and woodlots are a birder’s paradise.
To bike or to walk?
That all depends on how you feel. According to Conservation Hamilton, the trail can be cycled out and back in one to two hours. Of course, that would depend on speed.
If you’re looking for more of a hike, come prepared for a three- to six-hour excursion. Be sure to bring plenty of drinking water and snacks to stay energized.
There’s lots to explore and so little time left this summer. Get ready for a fun-filled outdoor adventure.
Don’t let time slip you by!
Dofasco 2000 Trail
Where: Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area at 185 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek, Ont., or Saltfleet Conservation Area at 444 First Rd. E., Stoney Creek, Ont.
Cost: Parking is $8 per day; free with HCA Membership Pass.
Recent Posts:
Here’s where to watch one of the best meteor showers of the year in Ontario
This free Toronto street festival is a celebration of everything garlic
