Four nature sanctuaries blanket 90% of the Gardens’ property in a diverse mix of forests, fields and wetlands, which wrap around the western tip of Lake Ontario, and are sheltered by the Niagara Escarpment — a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. They are treated as three areas: Cootes Paradise, Hendrie Valley and the Escarpment Properties (Rock Chapel and the Berry Tract). Explore the wilder side of the Gardens on more than 30 kilometres (18.5 miles) of scenic walking trails.  PARKING LOT CLOSURES Effective the week of December 21, 2009, the parking lots at North Shore Trail (York Rd) and Rock Chapel Trail (Rock Chapel Rd) are closed until spring 2010. These lots aren’t regularly plowed in the winter months, and by leaving them open to parking, we run the risk of vehicles getting stuck or damaged. We apologize for any inconvenience. Click here for a map of our nature sanctuaries and trailheads. Cootes Paradise Surrounded by agricultural, residential, industrial and commercial lands, Cootes Paradise is our largest and most diverse nature sanctuary, covering nearly 800 hectares (1,975 acres) of wetlands, fields and forests. Hendrie Valley Hendrie Valley covers more than 100 hectares (247 acres) of forested slope and floodplain wetlands next to the gardens of Hendrie Park and RBG Centre. Escarpment Properties Covering more than 105 hectares (260 acres) combined, Rock Chapel and the Berry Tract play major roles in maintaining ecological links between the Niagara Escarpment and Cootes Paradise. Trails More than 100,000 visitors walk our 30 kilometres (18.5 miles) of trails each year.  Back To Top Science contacts Ask our science staff a question about the science and conservation program. Science fact sheets Download a fact sheet and learn about our restoration projects. Project Paradise Learn about one of the largest habitat restoration projects in North America. Directions Click here to see how easy we are to find. Local weather Find out what the forecast is before you head out!
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