Most people come to Niagara Falls to see the waterfalls. But there's so much more to experience! Hidden away from the main attractions are incredible hiking trails that show you a completely different side of Niagara.

You'll find over 15 kilometres of hiking trails through beautiful forests, along rushing rivers, and past smaller waterfalls that are just as stunning as the famous ones. Plus, there's a 56-kilometre paved trail that's perfect for families or anyone who wants an easy walk with great views.

The Best Niagara Falls Hiking Trails

Niagara Glen Trail

Length: 6.4km
Difficulty: Medium

This is the crown jewel of Niagara hiking. You'll start by walking down 80 stairs into a deep gorge, then follow trails through an ancient Carolinian forest. The best part? Amazing views of the bright blue Niagara River and the famous whirlpool.

The River Trail is the main attraction - it's 1.6km long and runs right along the water's edge. You'll see huge boulders that are thousands of years old and might spot some of the 490 different plants and animals that live here.

Good to know: This forest is super rare - it's one of the last old-growth forests in the area. The big rocks you'll see are remnants carved out this gorge by the river thousands of years ago.

Trail Map: Niagara Glen Trail Map 

Bruce Trail - Niagara Section

Length: 80 kilometres (but you can hike smaller sections)
Difficulty: Medium to hard

This is Canada's oldest long-distance hiking trail. The Niagara section of the Bruce Trail starts at Queenston Heights and goes all the way to Grimsby. Don't worry - you don't have to hike the whole thing! You can pick shorter sections that interest you.

The trail takes you through through beautiful forests, vineyards, waterfalls and you'll even walk by old canals. 

Trail Map: Bruce Trail Conservancy Map

Niagara Whirlpool Trail

Length: 2 kilometres
Difficulty: Medium (has some steep parts)

This trail takes you down into the gorge to see the famous Niagara Whirlpool up close. You'll walk down wooden stairs (quite a few of them!) and follow a path through the forest and along the river.

The whirlpool is over 4,000 years old and it's pretty amazing to see the water spinning around. The trail can be steep and rocky, so wear good shoes.

Important: The stairs can be slippery, especially when wet, check the weather advisory before going.

Trail Map: Niagara Whirlpool Trail Map

Niagara River Recreation Trail

Length: 56 kilometres of paved paths
Difficulty: Easy (perfect for everyone)

This is paved trail that runs along the Niagara River. You can walk, bike, or rollerblade here. It goes right past the famous Horseshoe Falls and continues along the river with great views.

Perfect for: Families and anyone who wants beautiful views without climbing hills.

Trail Map: Niagara River Recreation Trail Map

White Water Walk

Length: 0.5 kilometres
Difficulty: Easy 

If you want to get close to the powerful Niagara River without the challenging hike, the White Water Walk is perfect. The boardwalk is easily accessible for everyone and takes you right to the edge of the Niagara Rapids - the same rushing waters you see from the hiking trails at Niagara Glen and Whirlpool. The sight of this quarter mile stretch of the Niagara River will take your breath away!

Good to know: This is a ticketed Niagara Parks attraction, so you'll need to buy tickets.

More Information

Heartland Forest Trail

Length: 1.6 miles (2.5 kilometres)
Difficulty: Easy 

Perfect for families and anyone looking for an easy, accessible nature walk. This trail winds through 93 acres of wetland and Carolinian forest, featuring fun sculptures, observation decks, and plenty of wildlife including turtles, fish, and frogs in the ponds.

What makes Heartland Forest special is its commitment to accessibility - almost all trails are wheelchair and stroller friendly. You'll find a playground, mini-golf, one of Canada's largest tree houses, and interactive learning stations along the way. It's a great choice if you're hiking with kids or want a relaxing walk without challenging terrain.

What You'll See on These Trails

Niagara's trails are full of surprises. You'll see bright turquoise water rushing through deep gorges, ancient rock formations, and lush green forests. 

Each season brings something different. Spring has rushing waterfalls from snowmelt. Summer offers shade under thick forest canopies. Fall brings the beautiful colours of foliage. Winter creates icy wonderlands (some trails are closed for winter).

There's something special about being surrounded by nature and hearing water rushing nearby instead of traffic. Hiking in Niagara Falls can be perfect for a relaxing & wellness getaway!