Cootes Paradise

At the western tip of Lake Ontario, within sight of the Hamilton skyline, a broad marsh and a ring of wooded ravines form one of the most important natural areas in southern Ontario. This sanctuary, managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens,, and has a mix of open water, cattail marsh, creeks and escarpment forest makes it a rich place for birds, fish, turtles and mammals. The place name recalls Thomas Coote, a British officer who hunted ducks here in the 18th century and is said to have found the place ideal for waterfowl.

The land has been protected since the early 20th century, and the Royal Botanical Gardens took on its stewardship as it developed. Over the 20th century the marsh suffered from pollution, invasive carp and silt, and much of its aquatic vegetation disappeared. A long restoration effort followed, including a carp barrier at the Desjardins Canal and planting of native marsh plants, and the wetland has partially recovered. The sanctuary is part of the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System, a network of protected lands that links the marsh to the Niagara Escarpment and the Dundas Valley.

For visitors, the main attraction is the network of trails and lookouts. Paths run through woodland and along the water's edge, ranging from level paved sections to steep, hilly dirt and gravel routes. The Sassafras Point Trail, Caleb’s Walk and the South Shore Trail are among the better known, and the Princess Point area on the north shore offers wide marsh views and a launch for paddlers. Boardwalks cross wet ground, and viewing spots give a chance to watch herons, egrets, swans and migrating ducks. In spring and autumn the sanctuary is a stopover for migrating birds on the Great Lakes flyway, which draws birdwatchers from around the region. Canoes and kayaks are a popular way to explore from the water.

The Sanctuary lies on the traditional land of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, and the Dish with One Spoon wampum agreement, an old covenant to share the land peacefully, is honoured here. Historic military burial grounds from the War of 1812 lie on nearby Burlington Heights.

Visitors have access from several points, including McMaster University’s campus, Westdale and Churchill Park. Wear sturdy shoes, since trails can be muddy after rain. Check the Royal Botanical Gardens website for current trail conditions and access arrangements.