Hiking Niagara Escarpment in the Niagara Region is unique for its proximity to wine country. In this Local’s Guide to the Region, we detail hikes along the Niagara Escarpment that range from easy to challenging. For every hike, we provide a list of wineries closest to the trail where you can relax and celebrate your hike. Let’s go!
| HIKE DIFFICULTY | SECTION |
| Easy/Moderate Trail | 1.0 Queenston Heights Loop |
| 1.1 Stratus | |
| 1.2 Two Sisters Vineyards | |
| Easy Trail | 2.0 Fireman’s Park |
| Challenging Trail | 2.1 Fireman’s Park |
| 2.2 Perridiso Estate Winery | |
| Moderate Trail | 3.0 Woodend Conservation Area |
| Easy Trail | 3.1 Wetland Ridge Trail |
| 3.2 Niagara College Teaching Winery | |
| Moderate to Challenging Trail | 4.0 Shorthills Provincial Park |
| 4.1 Henry of Pelham | |
| Easy Trail | 5.0 Louth Conservation Area |
| Challenging Trail | 5.1 Rockway Conservation Area |
| 5.2 Sue-Ann Staff Winery | |
| 5.3 Flat Rock Cellars | |
| Easy Trail | 6.0 Balls Falls |
| Challenging Trail | 6.1 Ball Falls |
| 6.2 Calamus Estates Winery | |
| Challenging Trail | 7.0 Moyer Rd Bruce Trail |
| 7.1 Vineland Estates Winery | |
| 7.2 Megalomaniac | |
| Moderate | 8.0 Locust Lane Bruce Trail |
| 8.1 Mountainview Rd. Wineries |
Hiking the Niagara Escarpment: A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve Hike
Hiking the Niagara Escarpment means you are hiking a designated UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve space. This outcropping of limestone received the designation in 1990. Think of the Niagara Escarpment as a giant cliff that starts in New York State and, runs along the south shore of Lake Ontario before it heads north into Michigan, ending in Wisconsin.
Hiking the Niagara Escarpment: Trails and Wine Pairings
The following guide to hiking the Niagara Escarpment focuses on wine country in Niagara Region. The guide starts with trails in the east, close to the Niagara River and the U.S. border, and follows the Niagara Escarpment west towards Toronto.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #1: Queenston Heights Loop
This section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail is the closest to the U.S. border and is located in Niagara On The Lake right on the Niagara Parkway.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: EASY/MODERATE
- Trail distance: Approximately 3.3 km one way before you turn around
- Out and back with option for various distances (i.e. you end where you start)
- Relatively flat trail with a few small ups and downs
- Double-track trails in most sections
- Lots of tree roots
- Beautiful views overlooking wine country
- Start where the paved path meets the forest at the very east end of the parking lot
- No trail markers but blue and white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Metered parking with plenty of parking
- Park bathrooms open in season
- Bruce Trail map of Queenston Heights is available for a nominal fee or buy the Bruce Trail App to view the map. You are following the white Bruce Trail blazes out and back
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Queenston Heights
Our recommendations for the best Niagara Wineries to pair with the Queenston Heights Trail are both located in Niagara on the Lake. The drive alone down the Niagara Parkway is one of the best in Canada, boasting picturesque landscapes and breathtaking mansions. These wineries are located in Niagara On The Lake.
Stratus
We were first introduced to Stratus shortly after it opened. It was an evening event with food and wine pairings in the different rooms of the winery. The atmosphere was incredible and we keep going back when we hike in the Queenston area as we really enjoy their reds and their cool vibe!
- Very cool LEED-certified building
- Gravity-fed wine-making with tanks located four stories up, meaning enhanced flavours in the wine
- Interiors have this modern sleek, environmental design
- All wines are great at Stratus. I tend toward “Wildass” red as the name makes me giggle
- Cool sofas set up inside for conversation with friends while sipping wine
Two Sisters Vineyards
- Our favourite thing to do at Three Sisters is sit in the Adirondack chairs with a glass of one of their bold reds and look out into the vineyards
- The stunning architecture makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a fine Italian winery
- The entrance to the winery has this palatial feel with its columns and well-manicured grounds
- The events this winery produces are super cool! Check out their website and try to coordinate your hike with one of their events
- Located on John St. in Niagara On The Lake
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
When driving north from the Niagara Escarpment to the wineries, stop at the riverside turn-out just past the Brock Monument. The views of the Niagara River are incredible. It’s also neat to see how close the U.S. is to this turn-out.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #2: Fireman’s Park
For this section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail at Fireman’s Park in Niagara Falls, we give two options for hikes, one easy and one more challenging.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: EASY OPTION
- Located at the intersection of Mountain and Dorchester Roads, Niagara Falls
- Park in the upper parking lot of Fireman’s Park (the first driveway off of Dorchester Rd.)
- Trail distance: Lots of loop options in the front of the park with an ~3.25 km total distance
- Loop trail (i.e. you end where you start)
- Flat trail
- Double-track trails
- Start from the parking lot
- No trail markers but this area is wide open, i.e. not forested so NOT easy to get lost
- Free parking in the large lot
- Bathroom located in the parking lot
Alternative Start at Fireman’s Park
HIKE DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING OPTION
- Park in the second parking lot on Dorchester Rd., just before the train tracks
- Trail distance: Bruce Trail section ~2.25 km one way to Mountain Rd.
- Out and back trail with possibility of lollipop loop with a view at the turn around (i.e. you end where you start)
- Lots of short, steep pitches
- Mostly single-track trails
- Start: Head down the stairs, skirt the pond and, look for white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- No trail markers but blue and white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Free parking
- No bathroom but you can use the bathroom in the upper parking lot
- Bruce Trail map of Fireman’s Park is available or buy the Bruce Trail App to view the map
video-firemans
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Fireman’s Park
When we talk about the best Niagara Wineries, there is no doubt that the biggest often dominate this list. We want to take you off the beaten path to this super cool winery location with some amazing reds.
Perridiso Estate Winery
Perridiso Estate Winery is located right by the Screaming Tunnel. In fact, they have a red wine that’s called “Perridiso Screaming Tunnel Cabernet.”
Screaming Tunnel in the Movies
In 1983, Niagara’s “screaming tunnel” was used as a film location for David Cronenberg’s adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Dead Zone.”
For local Christopher Walken fans like ourselves, we are stoked that this acting legend graced our hiking trails.
As for the alleged story behind Niagara’s Screaming Tunnel, it’s rather sad. They say the screams are from a girl that was burned in the tunnel.
More about Niagara’s Hidden Gem Winery: Perridiso
- Located on Warner Rd, right across from the Screaming Tunnel
- Family-owned
- Perridiso is a very intimate wine-tasting experience. The owners are welcoming of their guests
- Very quiet location to sit and relax with a glass of red on the property
- Highly recommend their Merlot wines
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
If you’re looking for another really neat experience on the Niagara Escarpment, make the short hike to the other side of the Screaming Tunnel. Turn left and head up the gravel pathway. You will arrive at the bridge that sits over the QEW. It’s a cool experience to walk over the highway and wave to folks as they drive past.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #3: Woodend Conservation Area
This section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail was renovated several years ago and now has a more robust outdoor centre, mostly for school groups. The trails are beautiful as they look out over Niagara College vineyards. Note that the easy hike option parks at Niagara College below Woodend (scroll down). This forested area is located just off of the QEW in Niagara On The Lake.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO CHALLENGING OPTION
- Located on Taylor Rd., Niagara On The Lake
- Park at the entrance to Woodend, immediately after turning off of Taylor Rd.
- Trail distance: ~3.5 km loop
- Loop trail (i.e. you end where you start)
- Rolling trails
- Combination of single and double-track trails
- The start is on the path that travels alongside the road (north side of driveway)
- No trail markers in Conservation Area but blue and white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Free parking
- No bathroom
- Bruce Trail map of Woodend is available or buy the Bruce Trail App to view the map
HIKE DIFFICULTY: EASY OPTION
Niagara College Wetland Ridge Trail
The easy hike option starts at Niagara College, below Woodend Conservation Area
- Located on Taylor Rd., Niagara On The Lake
- Park in the back parking lot of Niagara College and follow signs for the Wetland Ridge Trail
- Trail distance: Just over 1 km on the exterior of both ponds
- Loop trail (i.e. you end where you start)
- Flat
- Double-track trails
- Trail makers and it’s NOT easy to get lost as this route takes you around the ponds
- Free parking in summer months
- No bathroom
Best Niagara Winery to Pair with Woodend & Wetland
The best Niagara Winery to pair with Woodend or Wetland Ridge Trail is Niagara College Teaching Winery! This is our go-to winery to enjoy a glass of red overlooking the vineyards.
Niagara College Teaching Winery
- Staff are very knowledgeable because they are all studying wine culture at the College
- If you love reds try the Deans List Presidents Red
- Post-hike we love a bag of chips with our wine but their charcuterie board is also excellent
- A food truck is on-site in season
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
Niagara College is also home to a teaching distillery and craft brewery.
Definitely check these out before you leave!
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #4: Shorthills Provincial Park
Trailhead options for this section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail are plentiful. You can expect hills in all sections, hence the name of the park. This park is well used, especially in warm weather so expect parking lots to be busy on weekends. St. Catharines and Pelham border the Park.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO CHALLENGING
Trailhead Options for Shorthills Provincial Park
- Trail distance options: 5k up to approximately 18k (by combining trails)
- Loop trail or out and back (i.e. you end where you start)
- Lots of moderate and steep pitches
- Combination of single and double-track trails
- Trail signs located in Park
- Free parking
- Cabin-style bathrooms at all locations
- Trail maps: Available for free at Friends of Shorthills
Best Niagara Winery to Pair with Shorthills
One of the best Niagara Wineries to pair with Shorthills Provincial Park is Henry of Pelham. It’s located right at the west end of the Park, making it a stone’s throw from most entrances. We love this winery for its Baco Noir. It helps that one of our friends used to live across the winery for years so it became a staple in our collection.
Henry of Pelham
- If you love a spicy red, their Baco Noir is your pick!
- The winery’s name is a comical reference to past British Prime Minister, Sir Henry Pelham
- The cute little carriage house is the wine shop!
- Plenty of events in the summer months including a one-day jazz festival
- The winery has an oyster pairing event (oysters and white wine are fabulous!)
- Gourmet kitchen on site
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
Not exactly on the Niagara Escarpment, but The Farm Wines is an intriguing winery. They open their doors for wine tasting only once a year every August. The tasting location is in St. Catharines. I’m excited to report that after three years of trying, we finally got on the list! Hope to report back once we try the wines. If you’d like to get on the list, join here. Texting is the best option to get in as they sell out within minutes of opening.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #5: Louth Conservation Area
We love this section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail as there is an amazing waterfall that you can hike to and view from above on both the easy and more challenging trails. This section of the trail borders St. Catharines and Jordan.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: EASY OPTION
- Trailhead located on Staff Ave in Jordan
- Trail distance: ~1 km out and back with the option for more distance at the waterfalls
- Out and back (the “easy option” is a hike out to the waterfall and back)
- Flat
- Double-track trails
- The start is from parking lot
- No trail markers in Conservation Area but blue and white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Free but limited parking
- No bathroom
- Bruce Trail map of the west end of Louth Conservation Area is available or buy the Bruce Trail App to view the map
Alternative Start: Rockway Conservation Area
HIKE DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING OPTION
This is a very challenging hike with climbs down and back up several steep gullies. It starts in Rockway Conservation Area, travels through Louth Conservation Area and, back to the starting point in Rockway.
- Trailhead is located on Pelham Road in Rockway, just west of St. Catharines
- Trail distance: ~7.5 km
- Out and back with a small lollipop loop at the turn-around (at the waterfall)
- Lots of descents into gullies and back out again as well as travel along rocks
- Mostly single track with some double-track sections
- The start is from parking lot
- No trail markers in Conservation Area but blue and white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Free parking. Note that construction on a new Hall in 2023 may limit parking spaces.
- No bathroom
- We recommend viewing the trails on the Bruce Trail App (nominal fee) since this route bridges two separate downloadable maps, Shorthills and the Balls Falls (each map costs $3)
See our Hiking Guide for tips on training for challenging hikes
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Louth & Rockway Conservation Areas
The best Niagara Wineries that we like to visit near Louth Conservation Area are known for their whites. You may have guessed by now that we are red wine lovers. However, there is something about a crisp, oaky white with the perfect amount of sweetness that captures our attention.
Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery
When you visit Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, you are visiting the farm and wines made by Sue-Ann Staff. Much like Perridiso Winery, it feels like the wine-maker is inviting you into their home and sharing their old family secrets for making great wine.
- One of her brands is named “Fancy Farm Girl” (how cool is that!)
- We love her Rieslings
- Her winery is dog friendly, which is beyond cool!
- While many wineries offer weddings on site, the giant tent on this breezy farm property makes for a stellar wedding location (we know as our daughter was married here!)
- Sue-Ann Staff is a fifth-generation grape grower
- She was recognized as the 2002 Wine Maker of the Year
- The Estate is 200 years old
- I had the pleasure of doing a wine country fashion show with Sue-Ann and I can tell you, she’s a super cool gal!
- Winery is on Staff Ave. in Jordan
Flat Rock Cellars
We seem to find ourselves at Flat Rock Cellars for a glass of white on more than one occasion. Why?
The views from Flat Rock Cellars are AMAZING!
Here are more reasons to stop by Flat Rock Cellars after a hike at Louth Conservation Area:
- We love their cold, crisp, fruity whites
- We also love their Cabernet Franc. Niagara tends to make good Cab Francs
- The building represents sustainable architecture and includes a living roof patio
- You can pass the time sipping wine outside while taking in the views
- In the cooler months, you can chill on their overhanging patio, sip wine and take in the view
- The music scene is hopping at Flat Rock! Check out the music lineup here
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
From the Rockway Conservation Area Parking Lot, there is a very cool creek to walk alongside. In spring you can view the mini waterfalls rushing by. In warmer weather when creeks begin to dry up, you can sometimes hop across the river on the rocks and stones. From the parking lot, head out onto the trail. Keep straight and do not veer off to the left or right. The trail goes from double to single-track eventually. Keep following until you meet up with the creek (just under 1 km from the parking lot). This trail comes to a dead end so you have to turn around and retrace your steps to the parking lot.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #6: Balls Falls
One of the busiest areas of the Niagara Escarpment Trail is Balls Falls. This very picturesque Conservation area is home to a historical wedding chapel and barn, loads of trails and, a majestic waterfall. It can be quite busy on a beautiful weekend. Balls Falls is located in Jordan Station.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: EASY OPTION
- Paid parking at the Balls Falls Conservation Centre
- Trail distance: Up to 2 km
- Lots of options on well-maintained trails around Balls Falls Conservation Centre
- Bathrooms inside the Balls Falls Conservation Centre
- Free map download on Niagara Peninsula Conservation website
Alternative Start for Balls Falls
HIKE DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING OPTION
The challenging hike option starts on a trailhead away from the centre of Balls Falls. The hike is very demanding and, is an out and back. Option to hike the stairs at the turnaround and view the majestic Balls Falls before heading back to the trailhead parking lot.
- Trailhead is located on Glen Rd. in Jordan Station
- Trail distance: Just over 1km out with the option to add more mileage in the Balls Falls area
- Out and back
- The trail descends into a gorge and follows the river
- Single track with lots of roots, camber and, large rock outcroppings
- The start is from parking lot
- No trail markers in Conservation Area but white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- Free parking
- No bathroom
- Bruce Trail Map is available for purchase of the Balls Falls section or download the Bruce Trail App for a nominal fee. This section is a very straightforward out-and-back so a map isn’t necessary.
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Balls Falls
One of the best Niagara Wineries to hang out at after hiking Balls Falls is Calamus Estates Winery.
Calamus Estates Winery
- The tasting cellar is very intimate with old stone walls and a wood bar
- They have an observatory at the winery and offer stargazing events (how cool would it be to end up here one night and gaze at the stars with a beautiful glass of red or white?)
- We recommend their 2021 Cabernet Shiraz
- Try the Wine Boys charcuterie to Go with your wine
- Great outdoor patio with cool views
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
You may want to save the Balls Falls hike and Calamus wine pairing until the fall. Balls Falls has an annual Thanksgiving Festival that has been happening since the 1970s. For more information, see the Balls Falls Thanksgiving Festival website.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #7: Moyer Rd. Dip
This section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail is short but very challenging. You could make it a long hike and visit two fabulous wineries. Alternatively, you could hike into the valley, up the other side and back, and then drive to the wineries. We sometimes do this when we need to get hill training in. This hike is located in Vineland.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING
- The trailhead is located on Moyer Rd. in Vineland
- Trail distance: ~1.3 km one way
- Out and back
- Trail descends into a valley, across a river and, up the other side
- Single-track with a steep ascent and descent
- The start is at white painted Bruce Trail marker on a tree
- No trail markers in Conservation Area but white Bruce Trail markers on trees
- There is NO trailhead parking. Parking is on the road.
- No bathroom
- Bruce Trail Map is available for purchase of the Balls Falls section or download the Bruce Trail App for a nominal fee. This section is a very straightforward out and back so a map isn’t necessary
If you want to include two wineries in your hike, here is the map:
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Moyer Rd.
The best Niagara Wineries for views are in this section.
Vineland Estates Winery
From the moment you hike or drive up to the renovated farmhouse, you know this is going to be an exceptional wine experience. We recently rekindled our love of Vineland’s wines and highly recommend a visit for these reasons:
- They have several outstanding wines including their Riesling and Cabernet Franc
- You hike or drive among sprawling vineyards to reach the winery. How beautiful is that?
- The outdoor patio is covered and breezy
- They have dog-friendly events at the winery
- They were one of the first wineries in Niagara to open a restaurant on location
- Their restaurant features local fare and, internationally-trained chefs
- They have accommodations available around the vineyard. Can you imagine hiking, wining, dining and then finishing your evening relaxing on a porch overlooking the vineyards?
Megalomaniac
We have been fans of Megalomaniac since the day they opened. We drink their reds, their whites, we sit on the patio with a glass, we pose at the wine bar during cold winter months…
The winery has changed over the years. At the beginning, the wine cellar used to be open to the public. It is built into the hill and it felt like you were entering a secret hidden vault while you sipped away at the bar. Sue-Ann Staff was the winemaker at one point until she settled into her own family farm and wine-making business (see above).
The owner, who also has a winery in France used to live across the road in this French-inspired mansion. I think visiting Megalomaniac gives wine lovers this complete wine experience, almost as if they were transported to Europe and indulging in the wine scene. The best part of Megalomaniac:
THE VIEWS
More about Megalomaniac:
- All whites and reds are enjoyable by the glass
- The wrap-around covered patio is breezy and provides amazing views of Lake Ontario and the vineyards below
- The covered glass restaurant has the same amazing views as the covered patio
- The inside was recently renovated and is incredibly hip in white and black with large, low-hanging chandeliers lighting the space
- Wrap-around glass windows enclose the entire place so views are amazing from anywhere in the winery
- Their menu includes oysters, lobster, shrimp, black truffles, smoked meats and, other delicacies to pair with your wine
Niagara Escarpment Insiders Tip
If you love a very bold Syrah, visit Kacaba Vineyards Winery around the corner on King St. Our friend introduced us to this winery and now our treat to ourselves is a Syrah from their Reserve Collection. Their Reserve Syrah is the kind of red that is bold and spicy and deserves the big ticket price tag. You can taste all their reds (and whites too) at their tasting bar before purchasing.
Niagara Escarpment Trail Option #8: Locust Lane
This is the last of the Niagara section of the Niagara Escarpment Trail. This hike is one of my favourites. It is also surrounded by many, many wineries. Best to start this hike early or alternatively, to break it up over several days.
HIKE DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
- Trailhead is located at Locust Lane Winery on Locust Lane in Beamsville
- Trail distance: 1.5 km one way with the option to add more distance across the road
- Out and back
- Trail gradually ascends the escarpment through several switchbacks
- Mostly double-track trail
- Start is at the back of the parking lot, just before open the field (go left at the back of the parking lot)
- Hike to Mountain St., then turn around and retrace your steps back to Locust Lane Winery
- No trail markers but white Bruce Trail markers on trees. You are following white blazes the entire route
- Free parking at Locust Lane Winery
- Bathrooms inside Winery
- Bruce Trail Map is available for purchase of the Balls Falls section or download the Bruce Trail App for a nominal fee
Best Niagara Wineries to Pair with Locust Lane
What’s amazing about this hike + wine section is that you can hit up all the best Niagara Wineries in one area. Our running club did a wine tour of this area and it was great to experience so many different wines and food pairings in one day. Comparing is a fast way to figure out what styles of wine you love. Here is a synopsis of the wineries that surround the Locust Lane hiking trail and a suggestion of what to try at each based on our own experiences:
Locust Lane
Try the pizza and pair it with your favourite red or white. If it’s warm, eat on the patio overlooking the forest.
Fielding Estate Winery
We find their reds to be easy to drink. If you happen to be hiking this area in cold weather, book one of their outdoor domes for a cozy wine-tasting experience. Sundays in the summer are their “Cafe & Mimosa Bar” experience.
Organized Crime Winery
We love this winery for the name. Back in the day “Mama” used to work the tasting bar and it was an experience just to have Mama serve you! Try their whites.
Angels Gate Winery
This winery is undergoing a complete rebranding and renovation as of the summer of 2023. They are welcoming Le Clos Jordanne domaine to their establishment. We look forward to exploring this winery when it reopens.
Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery
What’s unique about this boutique winery is that it is also a meadery. They raise honey bees and ferment wildflower honey, much like how grapes are fermented into wine. Definitely worth a taste testing.
Thirty Bench Wine Makers
One of the first boutique wineries in Niagara. They also make their wine with grapes grown exclusively on their property. Love the idea of supporting small lot wineries!
Hidden Bench Estate Winery
Artisanal wines crafted with grapes grown on the Hidden Bench property. Love their dedication to producing organic wines and giving back 1% to the planet.
Looking for more hiking ideas? See our article on Ellicottville or Whiteface Mountain
Hope you enjoyed this unique wine and hike pairing guide for the Niagara Region of the Niagara Escarpment! Up next: Niagara’s hidden gem restaurant scene and “One Day in Niagara Falls.’
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