Stephen Gleave on the Best Waterfalls and Trails in Ancaster

Aug 17, 2022

Last Updated on: Jul 1, 2023

Adventure

When lawyer Stephen Gleave relocated to a Hamilton office building for the shorter commute, he didn’t realize the kind of beauty he was in for. But that’s the thing about Ancaster – its unique style has a way of sneaking up on you.

There’s something about Ancaster that makes you want to stay,” he explains. “There’s a magic to the town.

That magic he’s referring to could be its proximity to endangered Carolinian forests, which are one of the most temperate climates in all of Canada.

Gleave could also be referring to the close-knit history of Ancaster – this town sat on the strategic ground of multiple major transportation routes in Upper Canada, connecting different settlements and indigenous towns.

Its location near a large creek helped further develop its mill economy. Creeks also feed many of the naturally beautiful waterfalls that Ancaster has to offer.

So much of this beautiful little town is covered in different historical settlements bordered by natural forests. There are plenty of trails and water features to explore. Gleave has seen most of them, but his favourites highlight some of the best that Ancaster has to offer.

Sherman Falls

This waterfall located in Ancaster is surrounded by moss-covered limestone and a deciduous forest. An old but sturdy bridge takes you over its creek, the rumbling of the falls itself loud enough to be heard from many feet away. It feels like a scene out of a fantasy novel, but Sherman Falls, also referred to as “Fairy” or “Angel” falls is very real.

It may be located on private property, but this 17-metre-high curtain waterfall is still accessible, as the owners are happy to oblige. The trail leading to Sherman Falls is accessible year-round.

“It’s a wonderful hiking trail,” explains Stephen Gleave. “One of the best in Ancaster.”

Canterbury Falls

Sherman Falls is located between two other water features that are just as mesmerizing. Canterbury falls on one end is located on a tributary of Sulphur Creek known as Canterbury Creek and can be found on the Bruce Trail. This waterfall cascades 9.5 metres and is about 3.3 metres wide.

The land was previously owned by the Milne family in 1766-1826 but is now owned by the Anglican Church of Canada, Hamilton Diocese, which uses the site as a retreat, church and camp. A recently built bridge provides access.

Tiffany Falls

Tiffany Falls is a particularly interesting geological formation known as an Earth Science Area of Regional Significance thanks to its bedrock exposure, alongside a smaller waterfall called Washboard Falls.

This feature has many layers of stratified soil exposed to show millions of years of changes in soil composition.

Much like most of the Carolinian Forest ecosystem and the habitat around Ancaster, Tiffany Falls and the area around it is significant for the conservation of animal life.

Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Gleave describes the Dundas Valley Conservation Area near Ancaster as

all the area has to offer, all accessible on a series of well-looked-after trails.

This conservation area spans 1,200 hectares and has the same rich Carolinian Forests as well as geological formations and meadows that host a variety of rare and endangered wildlife.

The entire zone was once part of a glacial valley that disappeared approximately 10,000 years ago, which is why so many of the other areas on this list are known by geological experts as areas of interest.

What makes this conservation area special is its availability to the public and its equestrian-accessible trails. There are also more than 40 kilometres of recreational trails, with some trails offering wheelchair and scooter accessibility.

One of the best choices I ever made was coming to Ancaster,” says Gleave. “It’s reignited my love and pride for Southern Ontario

Additionals:

Share on Social Media

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Pigeon Forge

Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 1, 2023

Are you planning a vacation to experience thrilling and adventurous activities? You're signing up for a great time, but how can you pick the best activities when there are numerous to choose from? Then Pigeon Forge in Tennessee is worth visiting. It is a mountain resort city visited by over 10 million people every year to witness scenic beauty, many activities, and historical landmarks. If you're someone with a wild spirit, you will need more than basic activities to give you the excitement you're seeking. Famous sightseeing locations like the Titanic Museum are great for pictures but don’t give you the rush of an adventure. You can find the thrill you’re craving with the activities discussed below to make your journey a heart-pounding, joyful, and memorable experience! But before that, let's look at the accommodation options you can consider. Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge Before you dive into the activities, you must first decide where to stay. Since a large number of tourists visit Pigeon Forge, finding a place to stay is easy. There are many hotels, lodges, and cabins where you can book your stay before arrival. However, adventure seekers can opt to stay in one of the Pigeon Forge cabins to witness sunsets and stars at night from the mountains. It's easier to hike the mountains when you stay in the cabin and return to your place before sunset. Later at night, you can enjoy stargazing. You can plan and choose which cabin suits you best. Make sure you don't compromise on your safety, space, and comfort. Also, you'll appreciate a cozy place to rest after every fun activity. Eight Outdoor Activities for Adventure Seekers in Pigeon Forge Here detailed are some of the thrilling activities you can opt for in Pigeon Forge: Go Rafting in the Pigeon River   If you are looking for a dramatic whitewater thrill and adventure, then you can go rafting in the Pigeon Forge River. Lower Pigeon River is the perfect spot for gentle rafting, whereas, for ultimate thrill and excitement, you can go for Class 3 and 4 rapids in the Upper Pigeon River. You can contact different tour operators specifically offering rafting tours. Make sure to check that they provide all the safety gear and equipment. Also, ensure you follow all the rafting safety protocols. Moreover, some companies even offer to pick up and drop off to and from downtown. Enjoy the City Views on a Helicopter By touring the city in a helicopter, you get a unique first-hand aerial view of breathtaking rivers, lakes, and mountains. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains, Douglas Lake, and Dam. If you are traveling on a budget or short on time, you can take a small tour over the French Broad River. Usually, a helicopter tour takes about six to eight minutes. Besides, if you fear heights, this is your cue to get rid of them if you want to take advantage of the adventure. Go Tubing Down in Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark To experience thrilling rides, head to the Rowdy Bear Amusement Park. The park features a 500-foot Tubing Hill, Ski Lift Shootout Coaster, and Outdoor Axe Throwing. The tubing activity remains open in winter and summer. Enjoy Adrenaline Rush at Xtreme Racing Center of Pigeon Forge If you are a racing enthusiast, head to the Xtreme Racing Center of Pigeon Forge. You will get to experience high-speed go-karts on three types of race courses. The 3,500 linear feet Xtreme track features narrow straightaways and winding turns, whereas the 1,500-foot Elevated track offers the ultimate thrill to adventure seekers. On the other hand, the Reverse track offers the same experience as the Xtreme track but in reverse mode.  Go Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park Zorbing is a unique and exciting activity that you can try at Outdoor Gravity Park. It is an excellent spot for thrill-seekers to tumble down, bounce, and spin a 1000-foot-tall hill. The park features three different zorbing tracks that include a fast downhill, combined funnel and zigzag course track, and a completely zigzag track. Zorbing offers an ultimate heart-pumping experience compared to any other activity in the region. Indulge in Adventurous Activities at Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park Around 20 minutes drive from Pigeon Forge, you can enjoy an array of adventurous activities at Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park, located in Sevierville. The park features a swinging bridge, Gorilla Climbing Wall, and hiking trails amidst lush greenery and offers Waterfall Canopy Zipline and Goliath Zipline Tour. Once you reach here, you will get to make the most of your time with all the adventurous activities in one place. Try Indoor Skydiving at Flyaway If you ever want to try skydiving, then here’s your chance to go indoor skydiving at Flyaway. The first vertical wind tunnel in the United States offers an exciting experience. No prior knowledge or skills are required; you get a 15-minute training before the experience and safety gear are provided. After that, you get three minutes to skydive. Climb a three-story Sky Trail at The Island, Pigeon Forge The Island Ropes Course in Pigeon Forge is one of the must-to-do-activities for adventure seekers. As you complete the course, you experience the thrill and excitement like never before. The 3-story Sky Trail Explorer Course offers two ziplines and one simulated free fall. Not only this, but you can also witness a breathtaking view of the city in the 20-foot tall wheel that features 42-fully enclosed gondolas. Conclusion Are you excited to embark on the most thrilling vacation ever? Now that you know your options, pack accordingly! Make a checklist of every exciting activity you want to try, and plan your days accordingly to make the most of your time. Your moment of relaxation can also be your time to go wild. Take this as your opportunity to try new things, challenge yourself, and let go of years-old fears. Make this trip your craziest one yet and cross items off your bucket list. Additional: 10 Best Places To Travel In March – Travel Guide 2022 15 Best Places For Adventure Dates With Your Loved One Best Kentucky National Parks In USA You Should Know About Make Your Honeymoon A Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How

READ MORE Campervan

Dos And Don’ts Of Travelling With A Campervan

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 30, 2022

Have you been bitten by the campervan bug? As more and more individuals are taking to the open road in order to discover the world around them, these vehicles have become extremely popular. Are there any ways in which you can ensure a pleasant journey?  In the same respect, what mistakes should be avoided? Let us examine both sides of the proverbial coin so that you will be prepared for whatever may be in store.  Let’s have a look at what is a campervan and how the campervan works. What Is A Campervan? Campervan traveling is a camper van style that allows traveling on wheels. All these are entirely furnished vans. You will get plenty of beds, attached washrooms, televisions, and music systems. The main advantage of campervans traveling is you do not need to book any vehicles for traveling. You can play multiple music players and enjoy the views of the attractive scenic beauties. Every type of modern facility is available here, from kitchenettes to washrooms and televisions. Usually, these travelings are more fun. So let’s see how to make your adventurous journey into a more exciting one. Expert Recommendations: Tips And Tricks One practical recommendation involves knowing what to pack. Campervan traveling is a very exciting feature. Campervan travel is a very adventurous journey. But small mistakes can make your adventurous journey into a big headache. If your campervan has washrooms and a kitchen, then you must take care of your campervan. Hence, pest infestations are also possible at any time. If the campervan is not yours, then also you must take some precautionary steps. Here are a handful of basic essentials that should be included even if the journey is relatively short:  An adapter plug Fan or small handheld cooler Small antiseptic lotion Bandaid and bandage  Small portable, easy chairs Portable solar panels One or more beach towels A fully charged torch Extra bottles of drinking water A cooler A physical map (in the event that you do not have wireless Internet service) Skin care products such as sunscreen and insect repellent Secondly, make it a point to roughly map out your journey while taking into account variables such as traffic and estimated travel times. These factors will ultimately determine how long you can afford to stay at each destination. A satnav can help with this.  Safety Concerning Tips Safety is another priority that should never be taken lightly. Always check the condition of headlamps, tail lights, and similar electronic components.  Make certain that the MOT inspection is up to date. Confirm that the tires are inflated to the appropriate pressure and that the brakes are functioning as they should.  It could likewise be prudent to examine the campervan insurance options found at www.campervaninsurance.co.uk/campervan-insurance/self-build. This is the best way to find personalized packages so that you are financially protected while on the open road.  Mistakes To Avoid During Your Campervan Journey One common error involves airing the campervan out for long periods of time. Opening up windows and doors can cause levels of interior humidity to rise, leading to issues such as mould and foul smells.   If you are traveling with a campervan interior with a bathroom, then always maintain cleanliness. It is instead better to keep windows open while driving and to close them once you reach the destination.  Another mistake is associated with over-planning. While there is nothing wrong with creating a general itinerary, remember that unexpected sights could arise on occasion. So, include a bit of leeway when determining where it is that you wish to visit.  A final pitfall is associated with not checking the weather forecast on a regular basis. When traveling with a campervan, inclement weather can and will occur from time to time.  This is particularly the case during the summer months, as storms may arise from seemingly nowhere. This will place quite a damper on any much-needed holiday. So, be sure to keep up to date with all relevant forecasts.  A Bit Of Planning Will Go A Long Way Adequately preparing for an upcoming campervan trip is the best way to make certain that nothing is left to chance. Sit back, relax and enjoy all that these excursions have to offer! The campervan trips are also going to be very exciting if you are selecting the right way as per the precocious tips. So what is your opinion? Are you thinking of starting a campervan journey? Then share your opinion through the comment section. Additionals: Speed Boat Miami Tour – Sightseeing And Entertainment Kids Traveling With Their Laptops – Tips You’ll Want To Know 10 Things To Do In Madeira Beach In 2022- Tour And Travel Guides Motor Home Hire – 10 Helpful Tips On How To Be A Careful Camper In NZ

READ MORE Road Trip

12 Helpful Road Trip Tips For Your Next Adventure

BY  Ankita Dec 8, 2023

Embarking on a road trip is an exciting adventure that promises freedom, exploration, and the thrill of the open road. Whether you're planning a cross-country journey or a weekend getaway, a successful road trip requires a bit of careful preparation and consideration. Here are 12 handy road trip tips to help you have an enjoyable time on your next adventure 1. Plan your route It can be a good idea to plan the route you're going to take before you hit the road. Familiarising yourself with the route can help you avoid wrong turns and added time, reducing stress and the fuel bill. Consider scenic routes, interesting stops to visit, and potential detours. Navigation apps or GPS devices can provide assistance in staying on track, while also informing of any road closures or construction updates along the way. A well-planned route adds structure to your trip while allowing for flexibility. 2. Perform vehicle maintenance Before you embark on any road trip, it's important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for the journey. This includes checking tire pressure, oil, fluid levels, and lights, and ensuring the car is equipped with a spare tire, jumper cables, and a basic toolkit. You may also consider getting your car serviced by a mechanic or dealership in preparation for the trip. Being prepared can prevent breakdowns and ensure a safer journey - better to be safe than sorry! 3. Pack smart Efficient packing is key to maximizing space and comfort, and ensuring everyone's entertained on the trip. Create a checklist of essentials, including clothing, toiletries, medications, and any necessary documents. Pack snacks, water, and entertainment to keep everyone satisfied during the drive (including the kids!). Utilise storage containers and organizers to maintain order in your vehicle. 4. Choose the right travel companions There's nothing worse than being stuck on the open road with someone you just can't stand! The people you travel with significantly impact the overall experience - whether positively or negatively, so pick wisely. Choose companions who share your sense of adventure, have a similar travel style, and are willing to compromise when needed. Good company enhances the journey and creates lasting memories. 5. Reduce the risk of vehicle break-ins It's important to keep the vehicle you'll be road-tripping in safe and secure. Recent research from Compare the Market found that one in ten Australians (8.7 percent) experienced their car being broken into in the 12 months to September 2023. Traveling with your possessions in a vehicle could make it more of a target for opportunistic thieves. When leaving your car, be sure to take valuable possessions with you, and keep other items out of view where possible. Always lock the vehicle when unattended, and park in a secure space (such as a locked garage) where possible. 6. Budget wisely Establish a budget for your road trip to avoid financial stress. Account for fuel, accommodation, meals, and any planned activities along the way or at your intended destination. Look for cost-effective options and consider camping or cooking your own meals to save money. Having a clear budget ensures you can enjoy your trip without worrying about overspending. 7. Schedule breaks Long stretches of driving can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. The Department of Transport and Main Roads recommends taking a 15-minute break every two hours, as a minimum. Plan regular breaks to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the surroundings. Use rest areas, parks, or scenic viewpoints to break up the monotony of the drive, while also experiencing new sights. 8. Be flexible While planning is essential, it's equally important to be flexible when heading out on the road. Unexpected events or interesting discoveries may lead you to alter your route or extend your stay in a particular location. Embrace spontaneity and be open to new experiences along the way. After all, the journey itself is part of the adventure! 9. Capture the moments No road trip is complete without capturing those special memories. Bring a camera or use your phone to document your adventure. Take photos of scenic views, unique landmarks, and memorable experiences with your travel companions. You may also like to write in a travel journal or document your exploration through a blog. If you wish to keep others updated with what you're doing, consider creating a social media account to share your experiences with friends and family. These memories will serve as a lasting reminder of your adventure for the years to come. 10. Stay connected Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, especially if you're traveling through remote areas or alone. Where possible, keep your phone well-charged, and consider investing in a car charger and a portable power bank for additional power. Inform someone about your itinerary and check in regularly, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. If traveling in a group in areas of poor coverage, establish communication protocols and have a designated meeting point in case of separation. 11. Respect the environment Travel responsibly and leave the environment as you found it. This includes disposing of waste properly, respecting the local wildlife, and adhering to any environmental guidelines of the places you visit. Stick to established trails and roads to prevent unnecessary damage to the local ecosystem, and keep noise levels to a minimum (especially when in natural and residential areas). By being mindful of your impact, you contribute to the preservation of natural beauty for future road trippers. 12. Learn as you go Road trips offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the places you visit. Take advantage of guided tours and talk to locals, who can offer valuable insights into the area's history, culture, and lifestyle. Visit museums, landmarks, and other points of interest to gain a deeper understanding of your surroundings. Many exciting local places are free or inexpensive, and provide a unique perspective on the places you visit. A successful road trip is a harmonious blend of preparation, flexibility, and a positive mindset. From packing efficiently to staying safe and respecting the environment, taking the time to plan and prepare can help ensure your journey is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable for all the right reasons. There are always new roads and destinations waiting to be discovered - so why not start planning your next adventure today? Safe travels! Read Also: Journey To Joy: Unleash The Potential Of Your Road Trip With These Tips Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Anticipated As TSA Prepares For Busy Season! The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites Chinese And US Presidents Have Come To A Common Ground Regarding Tourism Facilitation!