THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Outdoorsy types will love exploring Fort Erie’s picturesque parks and conservation areas, providing nature at its finest!

Parks And Trails

There are over 30 parks to discover spanning over 120 hectares of parkland. Sugarbowl Park offers manicured lawns and gardens, walking trails, a dog park, playground, and even a pond.

Nearby Windmill Point Park has something for everyone - including swimming, volleyball, picnics, and camping. Ferndale Park offers a variety of family-friendly amenities including a playground, splash pad, pavilion, and soccer fields.

Fort Erie has 45 kilometres of recreation and nature trails including the Friendship Trail, a multi-use recreational path connecting Fort Erie to Port Colborne, which offers easy access to numerous sandy beaches on the shores of Lake Erie. A large portion of the trail was built on an old rail line, making it accessible to bikes, strollers, and wheelchairs.

For those wanting to soak up the summer sun, there are several options nearby. Crystal Beach (aka Bay Beach) has a vast sandy area with beautiful clear water. With its inviting atmosphere and breathtaking views, Crystal Beach is a must-visit summer destination. Another option for soaking up the warm summer sun is Crescent Beach, located just off of the Friendship Recreation Trail. Featuring 66 feet of intimate beachfront, it’s perfect for spending the day with family.

Conservation Areas

The region has some beautiful public conservation areas that are dedicated to conservation and preservation. Including, the Stevensville Conservation Area, where you can experience a forest, meandering Black Creek, wetlands, a fishing pond, and an open picnic area.

Cycling

Fort Erie is a cycling dram with 74 routes to choose from! Flat, hilly, uphill, downhill, quick rides and long tours, Fort Erie has a wide variety to explore. This includes The Fort Erie Loop, a 60-km loop that heads west from the Niagara River and reaches to Lake Erie.

Outdoor Events

Music lovers will want to head to Crystal Beach (aka Bay Beach) for the free summer Waterfront Park Concerts. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a musical evening on the lakefront and grab a bite to eat from food trucks on site.

On the Civic Holiday weekend, you’ll want to head to nearby Port Colburne for the Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival. This event showcases the city’s rich maritime heritage, centered around the historic Welland Canal. For four exciting days, enjoy a diverse range of activities, including boat parades, live music performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, delicious food vendors, and interactive experiences for all ages. Visitors can explore the bustling waterfront, take part in interactive workshops, and witness the spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the night sky.