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Life in Niagara goes well beyond the natural wonder of the Falls themselves. Calling Niagara Falls home means being close to world-class theatre and the famous wine region of Ontario. The city has an eclectic variety of dining options, a casino, and a bustling nightlife scene. Here are a few things to love about life in Niagara Falls. 

Outdoor pathways: Great places to walk, jog, and run in Niagara

Have you ever wondered where to enjoy great outdoor exercise in Niagara Falls? There’s no need for you to wonder anymore because we’ve pulled together the best places to jog, walk, or run in Niagara Falls. This region provides many hiking and walking trails with amazing views.

Ball’s Falls

Ball’s Falls is located on Sixth Avenue, east of Victoria Avenue. It offers 567 hectares of conservation area and historical park. Take a walk along the Twenty Valley Trail, Bruce Trail, and many others. Beamer Memorial is another beautiful trail which you should consider visiting. It features picturesque views of the escarpment ridge, Lake Ontario shoreline, and Forty Mile Creek Valley. The trails have access to three different observation platforms and one is wheelchair accessible.

Chippawa Creek

Chippawa Creek is close to Wellandport. You will find the entrance off Creek Road, which is just west of Regional Road 27. It offers beautiful nature trails with a lakeside recreation trail as well. There is also a marshland boardwalk in the vicinity. For those who love to run along a sandy beach, the Long Beach Conservation Area in Wainfleet would be ideal. It has over 56 hectares of manicured hiking trails that open up to the natural forestlands and you will also find 915 metres of sandy beach. 

Niagara-on-the-Lake

This picturesque and historic town is situated at the mouth of the Niagara River on Lake Ontario. Besides taking a stroll around the shops and streets of Old Town, you can take a walk down to the lakeside or marina. While Ball’s Falls and Chippewa Creek let you get out and walk in nature, a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake will let you stroll among a variety of local cafes, restaurants and shops.

Where to spend a winter weekend in Niagara

Create the perfect weekend getaway this winter with a little help from Panoramic Properties. The blog team has compiled a list of winter getaways within a short drive of our Niagara Falls apartments.

A romantic retreat

A bed and breakfast is the perfect setting for a romantic, relaxed weekend. Did you know that one of Canada’s top-rated B&Bs is just a 10-minute drive from Robinson Street Apartments (5556 Robinson Street)? Reserve a weekend this winter at Accommodations Niagara Bed and Breakfast (5069 River Road). This quaint stop is a short trip from home and within walking distance of Niagara Falls. Plus, you can treat yourself to a delicious three-course homemade breakfast to start your day.

Hit the slopes

The 2015-16 season is almost here at Glen Eden (5234 Kelso Road), a popular ski destination that is located near the nearby village of Milton. If your perfect weekend includes a day on the slopes, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, Glen Eden is one of the preferred places to go in the area. To experience the Terrain Park or any of its many trails this winter, drive about one hour from Pell Street Apartments (8083 Pell Street).

A trip for true adventurers

Combine the best of both worlds this winter by visiting a ski resort and lodge. One of the closest options to Weinbrenner Place Apartments (3401-3421 Weinbrenner Road) is Blue Mountain (156 Jozo Weider Boulevard). This popular escape is the ideal getaway for winter, with all the snow activities you love combined with stunning amenities. Plus, Blue Mountain Village offers dining and shopping options to entertain the family well into the evening hours. Plan for a two-hour drive to travel here from Weinbrenner Apartments.

Make the most of the Niagara River

While the falls are gorgeous, they can be very busy to visit in the midst of the tourist season. To avoid this trap, we’ve done the planning for you to help you make the most of the Niagara River and engage with the outdoors.

Niagara Parks exists to preserve and enhance the beauty of the lands close to the Niagara River. The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a 50 km network of mixed-use trails, including 15 km of hiking trails maintained by the Niagara Parks Commission (NPC). The trail is a scenic 2.5-metre (8-foot) wide paved trail which runs parallel to the Niagara River, from Fort Erie in the south to Fort George in the north.

You don’t need to be a superstar athlete to make use of the trails. Instead, strap on a pair of your best hiking boots or shoes and get out into nature. The network of trails also welcomes birdwatchers, Nordic Walking (urban poling), runners and nature walkers alike. 

Before getting out on the trails and visiting the river, it’s important to consider the rules and regulations of ‘Leave No Trace Canada.’ NPC are members of this outdoor ethics organization that encourages park visitors to “take only photos” and “leave only footprints” Trail maps can be downloaded online to assist in planning a route to visit the Niagara River and beyond. For more information about hiking Niagara Parks, be aware of these applicable Trail Guides and Parks Regulations:

• Avoid food packaging and keep waste to a minimum.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Pack it in, pack it out. Whatever you take into the Park with you, be sure to take it out when you leave.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviours and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
• Let nature’s sound prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

Biking Along the Niagara River

Bike rentals are available for rides along the Niagara River. As mentioned above, trails are paved and feature gorgeous scenery. This is an excellent option for first-time riders wanting to take on an accessible but fun challenge.  

Here are a few more of our favourite trails, spots and activities around the Niagara River:

• Dufferin Islands: A 10-acre park that contains several small islands connected by bridges and footpaths.
• Botanical Gardens: 40 acres of beautiful gardens and trails. The gardens also have daily guided horse and carriage tours available during the summer and into the fall.
• Queenston Heights: This park on the Niagara escarpment is an awesome spot for a picnic and a hike.

If you’re looking for an apartment in Niagara Falls, check out what Panoramic Properties has to offer.

To find your new home with Panoramic Properties, please visit our website.