Grindstone Marshes Trail is a Chirpin' Good Time!!
If you’re looking for an immersive nature experience filled with the wonderful sounds of birds, we highly recommend the Grindstone Marshes Trail at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. This trail offers a peaceful and serene hiking experience through a beautiful landscape. During our recent visit, we were greeted by the sounds of birds chirping and singing, creating a soothing ambiance that was truly unforgettable.
Where is it?
The trail is an easy 3.2-kilometer out-and-back route that takes about 41 minutes to complete on average. It’s located in Hendrie Park, which is the main trail at the Royal Botanical Garden. There’s a parking lot at the access point, and you can enter the trail through the Cherry Hill Gate.
The trail is dog-friendly, as long as you keep your furry friends on a leash.
What is Grindstone Marshes Trail like?
The Grindstone Marshes Trail is well-marked and easy to follow. It is an easy 3.2-kilometer out-and-back route that takes about 41 minutes to complete on average. But be prepared for a steep descent at the beginning. Once you make it down the descent, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding area from a boardwalk over a wide grassy marsh. The trail is not paved but is a nice packed earth trail and wooden boardwalks, so it’s comfortable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Bird Watching
One of the best things about Grinsdstone Marshes is that it’s a popular spot for bird-watching. We saw tons of birds, including red cardinals, blackbirds, and ducks in the marsh below the boardwalk. We even saw two beautiful swans!
The Apres Hike Treat
After a nice walk, you can head across the street from the Royal Botanical Gardens to Easterbrook’s Hotdog Stand! While on the outside this may look like your average hot dog stand, but inside is an eclectic mix of memorabilia and a very long menu of hotdog varieties. They also have ice cream, coffee and cold beverages.
Overall, we highly recommend the Grindstone Marshes Trail for nature lovers and hikers of all levels. It’s an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views, a comfortable hike, and plenty of wildlife. So grab your friends, pack your camera, and head out to the Royal Botanical Gardens for a day of bird-watching and exploring!