Trails

Most trails within Brantford’s city limits are open. The public is reminded that ATV's, e-bikes and motorized bikes are not permitted on trails. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters used for accessibility are allowed. Bicycles and leashed dogs are also permitted. 

Our trail system connects Brantford to other nearby cities including Port Dover, Hamilton, Paris, and beyond. Trails are paved or have a stone surface and are great for running, biking, or hiking. Please note that our trails are not maintained in the winter months and must be used at your own risk.

Trail map

Check our trail map for an overview of our trail system and washroom locations.

Trail closures

Sometimes we have to close our trails to ensure everyone's safety.

Cainsville Trail closure February 2024

A portion of the Cainsville Trail from Barrett Avenue to Beach Road is currently closed for repairs due to unsafe trail conditions. For your safety, please refrain from using the trail at this time. 

Photo caption: Image showing an overview of the Cainsville Trail Closure and red flags to mark the areas that are closed. 

Cainsville Trail Closure, photo of identifying areas that are closed

D'Aubigny Creek Trail

The D’Aubigny Creek Trail construction is completed for the season, and residents are encouraged to use the trail and open space throughout the winter months!

The trail has been realigned in order to protect the Western bank of the Grand River from further erosion, with the installation of bank stabilization plantings and the removal of damaged asphalt. Please be aware that the trail currently consists of a mixture of gravel and asphalt segments, with final asphalt paving scheduled for spring 2024. As always, the trail is not maintained throughout the winter months, so please exercise caution while hiking. Thank you for your continued cooperation!

D’Aubigny Creek Trail construction is complete

Trail Under the Lorne Bridge

The Trail Under the Lorne Bridge has been realigned and is now open to residents!

The new alignment ensures a safe and accessible route for one of Brantford’s most frequently used recreational paths. Multiple benches have been installed, offering a fantastic view of the Grand River throughout the year. Please be aware that the trail is not maintained during the winter months, so we ask that pedestrians exercise caution while walking the trail.

Trail under Lorne Bridge

Canal Bridge (Drummond Street to Greenwich Street)

The bridge at the canal from Drummond Street to Greenwich Street is closed due to poor conditions.

Bridge (Connecting Jaycee Park to Beaver Crescent)

The bridge at the path connecting Jaycee Park to Beaver Crescent is closed due to poor conditions.

Trail rules

Respecting the following rules and etiquette on trails will help avoid conflicts or injuries so everyone can enjoy trails equally and safely:

  • Bicycles are permitted on all shared use trails unless otherwise noted.
  • ATV's, motorcycles, e-bikes, motorized bikes, or snowmobiles not permitted on trails.
  • Motorized wheelchairs and scooters used for accessibility are allowed.
  • Call out or use a bell before passing someone on the trail.
  • Pedestrians should move to one side (preferably the right hand side) to allow cyclists to pass.
  • Use a light and wear bright clothes at night
  • Wear a helmet while biking
  • Camping, hunting and fires are not allowed.
  • Always be prepared to stop; trail conditions may change quickly
  • Respect all posted signs and laws
  • Stay on the trail
  • Keep your pet on a leash and pick up after them.
  • Use the trash cans for your garbage
  • Smoking and vaping on City trail property is prohibited

Giant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed is an Asian plant that was introduced to North America  over the last century ago and is now spreading throughout southern Ontario.

It can be hazardous to human health. Giant hogweed sap will make a person's skin extremely sensitive to sunlight. Contact with a plant, followed by exposure to the sun, can cause severe burning and blistering. The sap is toxic and eye contact can lead to blindness.

If any sap touches your skin:

  • wash the affected area immediately with soap and water
  • keep the affected area out of the sun
  • see your doctor if you have a reaction

Watch out for lookalikes

Giant hogweed is part of the carrot family and can sometimes be confused with other common plants such as cow parsnip and angelica.

Giant hogweed on City properties

Giant hogweed has been found on City property in a few locations.

The City has a removal protocol to eliminate giant hogweed from its property, but it is a persistent species that is difficult to remove. Options for removal include spraying a herbicide or digging it out. City staff take strict safety precautions when addressing with hogweed.

If you spot giant hogweed

  • on your own property, a municipal park or other areas such as along a riverbank or a trail, contact Parks Services 519 759 4150.

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