Central Hamilton trails and grub (15 km)

Hello Hamilton! This is an industrial town and also a refuge for people fleeing the high cost of living in Toronto. Well, at least up until a few years ago. Today, prices aren't that much cheaper. It still has something Toronto doesn't have: lots of waterfalls and easy access to wetlands and lakes.

We'll be doing a hike around Central Hamilton, through wetlands and the waterfront trail. Unfortunately, waterfalls are not in this part of town. But there will be a huge farmers' market and cultural attractions along the way. We're also visiting during Lucky Lion Night Market and Festival of Friends. There will be lots of music and food.

The specialty of Hamilton is pub grub: burgers, sandwiches, soups, and tacos. James Street North is the major restaurant axis of Hamilton and it's where we'll sample some of the elevated fare. We'll also pass by some minor food streets along the way.

End the day at a gastropub with global influences. Sign up on our companion event to secure a seat.

Highlights

1. Hamilton GO Centre (depart 1:30pm)
2. Whitehern Historic House / Hamilton City Hall
3. Art Gallery of Hamilton
4. Jackson Square / Hamilton Farmers' Market (depart 2:10pm)
5. Tondou Ramen / Tomah / La Luna
6. Cathedral Basilica of Christ the King
7. The Burnt Tongue (1019 King St W, depart 3:10pm)
8. Sassafras Point
9. Princess Point
10. McQuesten High Level Bridge (depart 4:50pm)
11. Waterfront Trail
12. Dundurn Castle
13. Bayfront Park
14. West Harbour GO station (depart 5:40pm)
15. Liuna Station
16. Charred Rotisserie House / Ola Bakery
17. Willard’s Ice Cream
18. Rapscallion and Co
19. Cowabunga+
20. The Standard / HAMBRGR / Mystic Ramen
21. Gore Park
22. Szechuan Noodle Bowl / Chaatter Box / Brothers Grimm Bistro
23. Undefined (arrive 6:25pm)

Neighbourhoods
Central Hamilton > Strathcona > Westdale > Cootes Paradise > Dundurn > West Harbour

Map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=19oglGnXG9fXhJc_E9qCgc6hDRj-wYNY&usp=sharing

Unpaved trails and steep hills in Cootes Paradise. This is a faster and longer hike than usual. Those with no hiking experience should join after, because we will maintain 4.5 km/h or faster on nature trails.

Tip: $10 GO transit pass to get to Hamilton. Enjoy unlimited travel throughout the GO network.

How it works

Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints.

We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way.

Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com. No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike.

Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers.

See our About section for more info.