Looking to combine some winery touring and Bruce Trail miles on your next visit to Niagara? You’re in luck! Niagara boasts several wineries that are just a short stroll from Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath.
While the Niagara Section of the Bruce Trail runs 80.5 km from Queenston to Grimsby, including its various side trails, there are over 130 km of hiking paths to explore.
The Margaret Reed Side Trail can be accessed at Cave Springs Conservation Area. Cave Spring Vineyard has a stunning Vineyard Tasting Room just a short walk or drive away from the conservation area’s parking lot.
The Wetland Ridge Side Trail, near Woodend Conservation Area, travels through vineyards and reclaimed wetlands towards Niagara College, creating a 3.7 km loop that connects to the main Bruce Trail. Stop for a tasting at the Niagara College Teaching Winery.
The Bruce Trail meanders right past Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, where hikers are such regular visitors that the winery offers a service where any wines purchased can be set aside for pick-up at the end of your day’s adventure.
The section of the Bruce Trail that runs from kilometres 55.0 to 60.4 through the Niagara Benchlands, starting at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, offers close access to a number of wineries, including Megalomaniac, Tawse Winery, Vineland Estates Winery, Ridgepoint Wines, Featherstone Estate Winery and Vineyard, and Cloudsley Cellars.
FAQs
Q: Is it easy to blend a day of Bruce Trail hiking with some tasting experiences at Niagara wineries?
A: The Niagara section of the Bruce Trail is close to several winery tasting rooms, including Cave Spring Vineyard, Niagara College Teaching Winery, Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, Megalomaniac, Tawse Winery, Vineland Estates Winery, Ridgepoint Wines, Featherstone Estate Winery and Vineyard, and Cloudsley Cellars.
Q: Is the Bruce Trail accessible year-round?
A: Yes, the Bruce Trail is accessible year-round, but hikers should use extra caution in the winter, when the trail may be slippery due to snow and ice.
Q: When is the best time to combine Bruce Trail hiking and winery touring?
A: September is a great time to experience Niagara wine country during the grape harvest and to take advantage of the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival’s touring passport.
