Short Hills Provincial Park

Short Hills Provincial Park is Niagara’s only provincial park, offering scenic trails, waterfalls, and Carolinian forest. Popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, it features Swayze and Terrace Creek Falls. As a non-operating park, it has no facilities, providing a peaceful, natural escape near St. Catharines.

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Short Hills Provincial Park is a non-operating provincial park located near Thorold in Ontario’s Niagara Region. The park protects a section of the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding landscape, characterized by rolling hills, steep ravines, wooded slopes, wetlands, and flowing creeks. This varied terrain reflects the geological and ecological features that define the southern escarpment corridor.

The park is primarily used for day-use recreation, with an established network of trails that pass through forested valleys, along stream corridors, and over uneven escarpment terrain. These trails support activities such as hiking, nature observation, and cross-country skiing in winter. The diversity of habitats within the park supports a range of plant and animal species typical of Carolinian-influenced forest and escarpment environments.

As a non-operating park, Short Hills Provincial Park does not offer campgrounds or visitor facilities. Management focuses on conservation and the protection of sensitive landforms and ecosystems, while allowing low-impact recreational use. Its proximity to urban areas in the Niagara Peninsula makes it an important natural area for education, outdoor activity, and landscape preservation within a heavily developed region.

General Information

Year Established: 1985

Park Size: 660.55 ha

Park Type: Non-Operating Park

Park Classification: Natural Environment

Phone: 905-774-6642

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Location

Situated amidst the picturesque landscapes near Thorold, Short Hills Provincial Park beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the natural wonders it offers. Let’s embark on a virtual tour to uncover the camping options, facilities, and recreational treasures that define the unique charm of Short Hills.

Latitude: 43.09650544 Longitude: -79.28340462

Facilities & Recreation

Short Hills Provincial Park is a large, non-operating park in the Niagara Escarpment region that is managed for day-use recreation. There are no entrance fees or staffed gates, and the park is open daily from sunrise to 10:00 PM. With no overnight facilities, visits focus on exploring the park’s extensive trail network and varied natural landscapes.

Hiking is the park’s primary activity, with more than 23 kilometres of trails ranging from gentle walks to more challenging routes. Popular trails such as the Swayze Falls, Black Walnut, and Terrace Creek Trails lead through forests, valleys, and along streams, offering scenic views and seasonal waterfalls. The Palaeozoic Path provides a barrier-free option, featuring a short gravel loop with benches and a viewing platform overlooking Swayze Falls, making it accessible to visitors with mobility challenges.

The park also supports horseback riding and mountain biking on designated multi-use trails. Equestrians share routes such as the Black Walnut and Swayze Falls Trails with hikers and cyclists, and should be prepared for natural terrain and changing trail conditions. Pets are welcome when kept on a leash no longer than two metres, helping to protect wildlife and ensure a safe experience for all visitors.

Fishing is permitted in Twelve Mile Creek and other park streams, where anglers may catch brown trout and rainbow trout with a valid Ontario fishing licence. Canoeing and kayaking are not suitable due to the size and character of the waterways. While there are no formal picnic areas, visitors often enjoy informal picnicking at scenic spots and are expected to pack out all waste.

During the winter months, Short Hills Provincial Park remains open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Trails are not groomed, so winter visitors should be prepared for natural conditions and changing weather.

Nearby Attractions

Mel Swart Lake Gibson Conservation Park: This 29-acre waterfront park on Lake Gibson provides picturesque views and is part of the Niagara Greenbelt, offering visitors a serene environment for relaxation and nature appreciation.

Welland Canal Parkway Trail: A 42-kilometer paved recreational path that stretches along the Welland Canal from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie, ideal for cycling, walking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the canal.

Decew House: The historic site where Laura Secord ended her legendary journey to warn British forces of an impending American attack during the War of 1812, playing a pivotal role in the Battle of Beaver Dams.

Morningstar Mill: A preserved 19th-century gristmill located near Decew Falls, offering visitors a glimpse into Ontario’s milling history and the opportunity to explore the scenic surroundings.

Bruce Trail: Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, which passes through the region, providing hikers with access to the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment.

Helpful Links

Friends of Short Hills Park

Park Blog

Nearby Parks

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