Outdoor Adventure Starts in the Benchlands
- Jul 30
- 5 min read
Looking for a perfect day of outdoor adventure? The Niagara Benchlands is the perfect destination for you. From hiking and biking to something more laid back like sightseeing and scenic strolls, we’ve got it all! Here’s a guide to some of the best outdoor activities that Lincoln has to offer.
Activity #1: Bike into adventure (guided tours + trails + shops)
The Benchlands offers scenic biking routes ranging from the shores of Lake Ontario to the rolling hills of the Niagara Escarpment. Whether you’re looking for an organized scenic adventure, or you’d like to go at your own pace, the Niagara Benchlands has a network for you. It all starts with hopping on a bike and pedaling away!
Tour de Vine (guided tours)
A relaxed, scenic cycling experience through Niagara’s wine country. Tour de Vine combines gentle routes with curated stops at local vineyards. This guided tour is ideal for riders who want a mix of outdoor activity, storytelling, and tasting.
E‑Bike the Bench (guided tours)
An e‑bike adventure along the Beamsville Bench, designed to make hills effortless while showcasing boutique wineries, orchards, and sweeping escarpment views. E-Bike the Bench is a great option for riders of all levels.
A 3,600 km multi‑use trail network connecting communities along the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. In the Benchlands, it offers shoreline views, quiet rural roads, and access to parks, beaches, and local attractions.
A province‑wide cycling resource promoting bike‑friendly businesses, routes, and itineraries. Provides maps, trip ideas, and certification programs to help cyclists plan seamless rides across Ontario.
County Cycle / Mountainview Cycle (shop + some rentals)
No bike? No problem! The Benchlands has bike shops offering rental services, as well as accessories and repairs. County Cycle and Mountainview Cycle make a reliable stop for bike renting, tune‑ups, gear, or a quick ride setup before exploring the region.
Activity #2: Hit the trails
The Benchlands are the perfect place to hike if you want scenic views and peaceful waterfront trails around every turn. Whether you want an easy stroll through historic sites or a more rugged adventure, the region offers incredible trails with stunning views along the Niagara Escarpment to make your hike unforgettable! Get ready to pack your hiking gear and start planning your next perfect hike!
Nestled along the Niagara Escarpment, Cave Spring Conservation Area is one of Lincoln's most popular hiking destinations. Visitors can explore picturesque woodland trails, unique geological features, and access portions of the renowned Bruce Trail. The area is especially known for its natural spring, diverse wildlife, and stunning views throughout the seasons.
Mountainview Conservation Area offers a tranquil outdoor experience with natural trails winding through forests and open green spaces. This hidden gem is ideal for those seeking a quiet hike, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds.
A tranquil nature destination nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through a unique wetland environment, take in panoramic harbour views, and observe a diverse range of wildlife. With its peaceful atmosphere, scenic waterfront, and natural beauty, Jordan Harbour is an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and connecting with nature in the heart of Niagara.
A scenic natural retreat nestled along the Niagara Escarpment, Rockway Conservation Area offers visitors beautiful hiking trails, lush forests, and two stunning waterfalls. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, this hidden gem provides the perfect opportunity to explore nature, enjoy breathtaking views, and experience one of Niagara's most picturesque landscapes.
A peaceful natural escape along Sixteen Mile Creek in Lincoln, featuring scenic forest trails, Louth Conservation Area allows visitors to see historic rock formations, and two magnificent waterfalls. Connected to the Bruce Trail, this hidden gem offers a tranquil setting for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment.
Activity #3: Outdoor fun for kids and family
The Niagara Benchlands offers plenty of outdoor spaces where families can play, explore, and connect with nature.
Located along the shores of Lake Ontario, Charles Daley Park features playgrounds, picnic areas, open green space, waterfront access, and family-friendly walking trails. It's a perfect destination for a day outdoors.
Families can enjoy easy walking trails, waterfalls, historic buildings, educational programs, and seasonal events. Ball's Falls combines outdoor recreation with opportunities to learn about local history and nature.
A popular neighbourhood park featuring playground equipment, sports facilities, and plenty of space for children to run and play.
Whether you're enjoying a family picnic, letting the kids burn off energy, taking a relaxing stroll, or gathering with friends for outdoor activities, Sho’aríshon Park provides a welcoming and vibrant setting to connect with nature and each other.
Activity #4: Kayaking, canoeing and paddling fun
Who doesn’t love a good water activity? With its scenic waterways, peaceful shoreline views, and access to some of Niagara’s most beautiful natural settings, Lincoln is the perfect destination to paddle, kayak or go canoeing with family and friends. Here are some services that provide you with all the resources needed to have a blast in the water.
Located in Jordan Harbour, the Niagara Rowing School & Paddlesports Centre offers a fun and accessible way to get out on the water. Whether you're interested in kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, or even learning to row, the centre provides rentals, lessons, and guided experiences for all ages and skill levels.
For those looking to explore Lake Ontario and Jordan Harbour by boat, Niagara Boat Rentals offers a variety of rental options, including pontoons, speedboats, personal watercraft, and kayaks. Perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends, it's an great way to experience Niagara's waterfront while creating lasting memories on the water. With flexible rental options and easy access from Jordan Harbour Marina, your next boating adventure is just a booking away.
Where to go?
Now that you have the necessary equipment, it’s time to hit the water! Here are some notable places where you can have some waterfront fun!
· Jordan Harbour
· Charles Daley Park
Whether you're looking for an adventurous hike along the Niagara Escarpment, a scenic cycling route, or a relaxing day by the water, Niagara Benchlands offers outdoor experiences for every interest. From the stunning trails at Ball's Falls Conservation Area and Charles Daley Park to the region's picturesque countryside and award-winning wineries, there's no shortage of ways to connect with nature and explore the community's unique landscape. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your bike, or pack a picnic and discover why Lincoln is one of Niagara's best destinations for outdoor adventure. No matter how you choose to explore, unforgettable views and memorable experiences are waiting just around the corner.
