On the Trails: August 2026

The next generation of life fills the sanctuaries, birds are numerous, new fish abound in the wetlands, and butterflies and dragonflies are on the wing. August wildflowers are highlighted by wetland species such as Lobelia siphilitica (Blue Lobelia), woodland species such as Helianthus strumosus (Woodland sunflower) and meadow species like Campanula americana (Tall Bellflower).

Take a break from the summer heat at one of the many observation platforms overlooking the water. These lookouts provide views of our most spectacular areas including South Pasture Swamp, Spencer Creek Delta and Hopkins Wood Special Protection Areas.

The Anishinaabe Waadiziwin Trail below the Nature Centre is a great addition to a relaxing trip to learn about Indigenous use of plants and can also be found on Geotrails.

Many northern bird species have begun their annual migration south, and waterfowl and shorebirds are now making their seasonal appearance in Cootes Paradise and Grindstone Marsh. Prime viewing opportunities can be found along the trails and observation points accessible from the Cootes Paradise North Shore (Arboretum) or Hendrie Valley.

Heron species of all kinds are active in the marshes, drawn by an abundant supply of young fish. Notably, Great Egrets a more southern bird and once nearly extirpated from the region, are returning in growing numbers each year, a powerful indicator of the improving health and habitat quality of these vital wetland ecosystems.

Trail User Notes

For Your Safety

• Please note that all use is at your own risk. Most of our trails are hilly and the trail surfaces are natural soil. Consider your footwear as during winter surfaces can be icy or muddy depending on the weather.
• Please stay on the marked trails to avoid trampling regenerating shrubs and trees or buried roots of understory plants such as trilliums.
• The nature trail system is considered closed during extreme weather event notifications from Environment Canada.
• Mountain bikes/fat bikes are not allowed as our trails are not designed to accommodate these activities.
• Please be aware ticks, including those carrying Lyme Disease, are found throughout the Hamilton/Burlington area and are active at temperatures above 0°C. Protect yourself by staying on marked trails. RBG does not accept ticks for testing. For inquiries regarding ticks, please contact the Region of Halton or City of Hamilton Public Health.
• Feeding the wildlife/birds is prohibited. Feeding wildlife results in long-term damage to these important nature sanctuaries and their inhabitants.