Hamilton Conservation Authority

Reservations for Dundas Peak at Spencer Gorge Conservation Area are SOLD OUT for Thanksgiving weekend.

There is still limited availability at Webster Falls.

Please remember, walk-ins are not permitted at Spencer Gorge, and special parking enforcement will be in effect in the surrounding area.

Plan ahead and learn more before you visit:
https://conservationhamilton.ca/conservation-areas/spencer-gorge/

A community tree planting at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area added 400 new trees to the landscape, helping strengthen local habitat, support biodiversity and contribute to the long-term health of this important natural area.

The planting was made possible with support from the Heritage Green Community Trust and the helping hands of 70 volunteers and staff, alongside the Friends of the Eramosa Karst, Trees for Hamilton, Team Orange from ArcelorMittal Dofasco and the Hamilton Conservation Foundation.

Thank you to everyone who helped put these trees in the ground and conservation into action!

A quick update from the field! 🌲

Invasive Species Technician Ben, pictured here, has been tagging Eastern Hemlocks in the Dundas Valley selected for treatment against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.

So far, 462 trees have been tagged and treated, helping our team monitor their health over time.

Curious about what threatens our Eastern Hemlocks? https://conservationhamilton.ca/blog/a-closer-look-at-hemlock-woolly-adelgid/

🌲 Tech meets nature. The Talking Forest App automatically activates audio stories, images, and captions as visitors move along the trails. From fascinating details about local wildlife and ecology to rich insights into history and geology, the app makes every step a chance to learn and explore.

Ready to try it?
👉 Download the "Talking Forest" App on iOS or Android today and experience HCA trails like never before. Learn more: https://conservationhamilton.ca/hca-trail-app/

HCA has a one-year contract employment opportunity for a Planner. Join our team today: https://conservationhamilton.ca/planner/

Today, we honour the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, their families and Indigenous communities. It is a day to reflect on the lasting impacts of the residential school system, listen to Indigenous voices and continue learning about the history and ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation.

The Basadinaa Experience offers one opportunity to continue that learning through First Nations teachings, treaty history and cultural knowledge.
Learn more: https://conservationhamilton.ca/basadinaa-experience/

This past weekend HCA hosted the annual Watershed Stewards Appreciation Day. Held in partnership with Conservation Halton, the event celebrated people whose efforts protect and enhance natural areas within local watersheds.

These awards recognize landowners, schools and businesses in HCA’s watershed whose efforts help maintain and restore natural features and support a healthy watershed.

Learn more: https://conservationhamilton.ca/hca-recognizes-2026-watershed-stewardship-award-recipients/

Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, which includes Dundas Peak, Tew Falls, and Webster Falls, will require an advance reservation seven days a week from Saturday, September 26, until Sunday, November 8, to accommodate the fall colour season.

Read more: https://conservationhamilton.ca/spencer-gorge-reservations-2026/

Look closely on your next hike! Yellow, orange and red leaves come from different natural pigments revealed or produced as chlorophyll fades. Visit a conservation area and turn leaf-peeping into a healthy habit—walking builds endurance while nature can boost your mood. https://ontarioconservationareas.ca/find-a-conservation-area/map/

Fall colours are more than beautiful—they’re chemistry in action! With less sunlight, leaves break down chlorophyll and other pigments become visible. Explore a conservation area, breathe in the crisp air, strengthen your body, and give your mind a natural reset. Find your next hike here: https://ontarioconservationareas.ca/find-a-conservation-area/things-to-do/