Essex County Nature Trails


Welcome to Essex County!

Located in southern Ontario, Canada, just over the border from the United States sits the charming Essex County. This region, the southernmost in Canada, is mainly known for the thriving city of Windsor, but the County offers visitors more than the bright lights of Windsor. With several municipalities to explore, postcard worthy towns, stunning lake views and gorgeous landscapes, a Canadian island (Pelee Island), an award-winning EPIC (Essex Pelee Island Coast) Wine Country and welcoming locals, Essex is the perfect Canadian getaway!

You will find some of the best hiking and nature trails in Ontario right here in Essex County.


For more information please see:  https://www.countyofessex.ca/en/index.aspx

AMHERSTBURG-ESSEX GREENWAY

Because of the success of the initial Greenway trail, in 2001, CN donated an additional 26 kilometre stretch of abandoned rail line that stretches from Amherstburg to the urban centre of Essex and intersects with the existing Chrysler Canada Greenway. In 2007, a one...

ANDREW MURRAY O’NEIL MEMORIAL WOODS

Andrew Murray O’Neil Memorial Woods is a mixed Carolinian forest containing Oaks Hickories, Basswood, Pine, Elm and Black Walnut trees to name a few.  This Conservation Area is a walking trail that combines a former section of rail way and an adjacent forest that...

BIG O CONSERVATION AREA

The Big O Conservation Area is one of southwestern Ontario’s birding ‘hot spots’. In early May, many species of migratory birds arrive at this conservation area after crossing Lake Erie. Birdwatchers can check which birds have arrived and add species to a log book....

CHRYSLER CANADA GREENWAY

The Chrysler Canada Greenway nearly 50 kilometre multi use trail that is the southern-most section of the Trans Canada Trail. It connects natural areas, rich agricultural lands, historically and architecturally significant structures, award winning wineries and many...

DEVONWOOD CONSERVATION AREA

It’s hard to believe this unique woodland is located in an urban centre! Enter this natural area and feel the stresses of life melting away. Located in the City of Windsor, Devonwood features more than 4.5 kilometres of trails promote healthy and active living for...

GANATCHIO TRAIL

Named after the Indian word for Lake St.Clair, the trail features a two-lane paved pathway catering to rollerbladers, joggers, cyclists and walkers. Ganatchio Trail is part of the Windsor Trail, which is planned to circle the City of Windsor with biking and walking...

HERB GRAY NATURE RESERVE

The Herb Gray Nature Reserve is a part of the Southwood Lakes development. The wooded preserve in Southwood Lakes was dedicated in 1995, as a tribute to the Honourable Herb Gray, MP in appreciation of his outstanding contribution to the City of Windsor. The wooded...

HILLMAN MARSH

With 5 kilometres of trails around this precious marshland habitat, Hillman Marsh draws wildlife and people from both near and far. Adjacent to Lake Erie, the walking trails, nature centre, washrooms and viewing towers at Hillman Marsh can be accessed from the main...

HOLIDAY BEACH

This Conservation Area offers a long sandy beach on the Lake Erie shoreline, plus many other amenities. It is ideal for a day at the beach, a beautiful picnic, or a seasonal vacation.  Holiday Beach Conservation Area has serviced seasonal campsites, new showers and...

JOAN & CLIFFORD HATCH WILDFLOWER GARDEN

The Wildflower Garden’s sculpted layout is inspired by the gentle waves and steady current of the Detroit River. The restorative landscaping with an emphasis on native plants and wildflowers was designed to be self-sustaining and also created to provide an...