5 walking trails make discovering nature at Ruthven Park National Historic Site fun and easily accessible. Each trail offers a unique opportunity to view the scenery and get an insight of the flora and fauna found on the property. And situated in a rural landscape, the trails provide a getaway from the noise and crowds of city life.
The trails are easy terrain, and each identified with a sign describing the path and the length.
The Riverside Trail (1.4 km) begins and ends in the picturesque landscape, a feature of the history of the site. View the river from various lookouts and get a glimpse of the Greek Revival mansion, a focal point on the site. The trail ends at the Thompson family cemetery but also leads to the Fox Den Trail.
The Fox Den Trail (0.5 km) takes you closer to the river and at one point has a small beach area where you will have a good view of Slink Island (part of the Ruthven estate).
The Carolinian Woodland Trail (1.51 km) takes you through the forest and along a fresh water stream which flows to the Grand River. In season you will see a variety of native wildflowers in full bloom or the calls of songbirds as you stroll through the trail. On a year-round basis, discover the diversity of trees and woodland plants, and just relax and enjoy nature.
The Butterfly Trail (0.22 km) takes you through the meadow filled with native plants which attract birds and butterflies.
A flat trail called the Indiana Trail (0.42 km) is good for an easy walk. There is free parking available as well as accessible public washrooms. Bring a picnic to fuel up before or after your hike; we have several picnic tables and spots for you to choose from.
Access to the trails and grounds is by pay-what-you-can donation. Donations help support the on-going study, maintenance, and preservation of the site. Donation boxes can be found at the entrance gate, by the public washroom building, and in the Gate House office.
The trails are open during OFFICE HOURS. Visiting outside of these hours when the site is not staffed is considered trespassing.
Ruthven Park National Historic Site Trails are just some of the many nature trails and hiking trails you can find throughout Ontario by using the search features of OntarioNaturetrails.com
Region(s): Haldimand CountyNearby towns and cities: Caledonia | Cayuga
Trail feature tags: Boardwalk
Ruthven Park National Historic Site characteristics
Length: 5 trails totalling 4 km.Difficulty: Easy (Trail classifications)
Trail surface: Boardwalks, Natural, and Crushed limestone
Trail use: Hiking
Partially wheelchair accessible
Fees: By donation
Flora & Fauna:
Not reported yet.
Amenities: Accessible washrooms, picnic tables
Attractions: Boardwalk
Contact:
info@ruthvenpark.ca
Tel: (905) 772-0560
Find it: 243 Haldimand Hwy. #54, Cayuga, Ontario
GPS Coordinates (main trailhead):
Latitude: 42.9812300
Longitude: -79.8717210