Some conservation areas — but not waterfalls! — re-open after shutdown

Several popular Hamilton conservation areas will re-open to hikers, bikers and birdwatchers Wednesday after a sevenweek pandemic shutdown.

But make sure to use your washroom at home before heading out for a visit.

The Hamilton Conservation Authority will reopen seven popular natural areas for “passive use” on May 13, seven weeks after it shut down nearly all operations in response to a provincial order meant to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The partial reopening means washrooms, gatehouses, pavilions and other buildings remain closed — but you are now allowed to walk, hike or bike the listed conservation areas.

The reopened areas include Christie Lake, Dundas Valley, Eramosa Karst, Fifty Point, Fletcher Creek, Valens Lake and Westfield Heritage Village. (Rail trails through the Dundas Valley and in other parts of Flamborough previously reopened last weekend and remain accessible.)

Most narrow hiking trails and conservation areas with waterfalls attached are still off-limits, however.

City public health officials are still concerned about pandemic gatherings that could spread COVID-19, so popular destinations that tend to attract a crowd — or those only accessible by narrow trails — will stay closed for now.

Pandemic bans remain in place for the Spencer Gorge, Dundas Peak, Tiffany Falls and Devil’s Punch Bowl. (Cityowned Albion Falls is also off-limits, and bylaw officers have been busy ticketing visitors on many weekends.)

The authority will also await “provincial direction” before reopening its campgrounds and marinas.

Some Hamilton-area natural lands governed by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority have also reopened for passive use, including the Binbrook Tyneside trail (but not the main Binbrook park) and the Binbrook Tract.

To view the full list, check out npca.ca/ parks.