Hiking Tips for Trail Users

Niagara Falls offers breathtaking outdoor spaces to get exercise and recharge your batteries. The fresh air, natural scenery and physical activity make hiking a great stress reliever and passtime when the nice weather hits.

The Niagara Glen is a very popular hiking and bouldering area located deep in the Niagara Gorge. This trail system includes short out-and-back paths and rugged steep and winding trails overlooking the rapid waters of the Niagara River. Ambassadors are on-site each weekend to provide information, along with Niagara Parks Police to ensure the safety of visitors and enforce trail rules.

If you don't have a map, navigating trail systems can be difficult. View the Niagara Glen trail map online before beginning your adventure. 

HIKING TIPS

Be sure to follow proper hiking etiquette and abide by the following safety tips when you explore trails in Niagara Falls. 

Dress appropriately.

Come prepared with proper footwear to handle all types of trail conditions, layered clothing, bottled water and a fully charged cell phone in case of emergency.

Stay away from the water.

The swift current of the Niagara River is very dangerous and getting too close to the water may result in drowning. The water levels of the Niagara River can change rapidly so always stay clear of the water and stick to marked trails during your hike.

Stay on marked trails and obey all posted signage.

Only hike on the clearly marked trails. Venturing off marked trails can be dangerous to hikers leading to accidents or injury from unsafe terrain and can also inadvertently expose hikers to poison ivy that may be present in forested areas. Native plant species can also be irreparably damaged when hikers veer off the trails.

The Niagara Parks Trail System features posted signage. Before you begin a hike please read the signage thoroughly to ensure you understand all the notices for trail users. At the Niagara Glen, Niagara Parks also has staff on-site to monitor hikers and ensure all guests are following proper trail safety protocols and etiquette.

Know your physical limits.

Before heading out for a hike research the trail that you are planning to take. As you're descending any elevation always keep in mind that each step you take down is a step you will have to take back up.

Follow trail etiquette.

Exercise proper trail etiquette, including social distancing of at least 2 metres between yourself and other hikers on staircases and trails. Follow any directional signs that may be in place for the flow of traffic along the trails.

Only take photos and leave nothing behind.

Leave the grounds in its pristine natural state after your visit. Come prepared to take away any garbage that you may create during your time hiking on the trails.

Choose the right time to go hiking.

Only hike in the daylight when the visibility along the trails and paths is clear. Trails are often uneven and you could encounter rocks and tree roots. In order to avoid injury it is very important to be able to see where you are placing your steps. Be sure to check the weather and sunset time before you head out on your hike.

Always hike with a friend.

It's important to always bring a friend along when you venture out onto the trails. Not only do they provide company, but in the case of an accident or injury your friend can be a vital life-line to provide you with assistance or get you the help you need.

Practise safe bouldering.

A Niagara Parks Commission bouldering permit is required. Only climb designated rock faces while following all guidelines for safety and nature preservation.