Cherry Hill Gate on a Sunny Sunday: Even non-hikers will enjoy

Royal Botanical Garden’s trailhead Cherry Hill Gate is a prime example of how you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get out of the house and enjoy the nice weather on the weekend. You also don’t have to be an experienced hiking enthusiast or nature lover to get the most out of this trail. If you find yourself craving some fresh air and natural beauty, Cherry Hill Gate is sure to hit the spot.

This nature sanctuary is definitely a hidden gem in the Burlington and Hamilton region. Located in Burlington’s Aldershot area just off of Plains Road West, the trail’s parking lot (main point of access) is just across the street from the RBG’s Main Centre. Right in the heart of the Hendrie Valley, this trail leads to a boardwalk stretch that rests two metres above the floodplain wetlands of Grindstone Creek. The boardwalk is linked to the Grindstone Marsh trail and leads right to the Grindstone Marshes, a hotspot for fishing when it is seasonally permitting.

I made a much anticipated visit to Cherry Hill Gate last weekend. I usually hit the trail a couple times a year, even on those chilly winter mornings when you can see your breath hang in the air. On Sunday morning, the air was crisp and the sky was bright. I walked all the way down to the Grindstone marsh and went down a little bridge that brings you to an overlook with great views of Carroll’s Bay. 

Calm views of Carroll's Bay

What was neat about Sunday’s visit was that I was able to see a lot of wildlife. I saw some swans floating in Carroll’s Bay, a group of loons splashing about in the wetlands and of course a wide variety of birds that you don’t see on a day to day basis. The chipmunks and birds are not shy in the valley and will come right into the palm of your hands if you are offering food. Lastly, you will definitely see a ton of dogs because this has become quite the popular spot for walking pooches.

Going about the everyday grind, it is easy to forget about the natural beauty and life that exists within our area, so this trail is a nice reminder of that. If you haven’t already noticed, I’m a huge advocate for getting outside and being one with nature. There are so many benefits to venturing out into the great outdoors and taking in nature.

Here are a few that I have personally noticed:

Mindset: Likely due in some part to the release of endorphins from walking, I have always found that nature walks can get me out of a funk or a ‘blah’ day. I always leave with a renewed sense of perspective and gratitude. I never get quite the same quality of a walk when I am strolling about the main streets near where I live.

Creativity: This is another area I feel gets a good resurgence from exposure to nature. Being a visually artistic person, a good nature walk also recharges and inspires my creative impulses or lack of them.

Clarity: Besides sleep and a good meal, nothing like the solitude of nature helps in bringing my mind back into sharp focus. If I am feeling overwhelmed or in a brain fog, I’ve found nature to be a strong remedy in getting me back on track.

Besides the personal ones I’ve listed, freshjuice does a great job of discussing the benefits of nature walk. Take my word for it, they are pretty convincing!   

Next time you are feeling cooped up and looking to get out of the house, consider exploring Cherry Hill Gate trail! Grab a coffee/tea to go, pay the $1/hour for parking and you’re looking at a great couple hours well spent!