Fun Fall Adventures on the Trans Canada Trail in Brantford, Ontario
It might not be far from the bustling streets of Toronto, but Brantford is so much more than a commuter town. Boasting a vibrant artistic community, a deep-rooted heritage and over 70 kilometres of hiking and biking paths, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor adventures during the fall months.
The best of what the city has to offer can be discovered along its sections of the Trans Canada Trail.
From outdoor concerts and Halloween highjinks to serene riverside strolls, here are our suggestions for your fall day out in Brantford.
Photo credit: Discover Brantford
A venue for culture and family fun
All year round, Brantford welcomes thousands of visitors for sporting events, as well as music and cultural festivals. However, its arts scene truly comes to life in fall.
In September, the SC Johnson Trail – City of Brantford hosted Culture Days on the Trails, a series of short performances from local musicians, visual artists and dancers. This celebration is part of the nationwide Culture Days, which offers free participatory arts and culture events to millions of people across Canada.
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Nearby, the annual Grand River Arts Festival takes place on the historic grounds of Glenhyrst Art Gallery. This two-day gathering features theatre performances, visual art exhibitions and markets, concerts and food trucks.
For something spookier, don your best Halloween costume for Scare in the Square, held each October. Located close to the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway, this family-friendly event invites you to join trick-or-treating activities, carve your own pumpkin or even explore a haunted house – if you dare!
Photo credit: Discover Brantford
A place to remember diverse histories
From Alexander Graham Bell to Wayne Gretzky, Brantford has been home to numerous game-changers in Canadian history. However, its rich past goes back even further. The land where the city now stands has been inhabited for centuries by Indigenous peoples, and is named after Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea), a prominent 18th-century Kanyen’kehà:ka (Mohawk) chief, interpreter and statesman.
A must-see historic site is Her Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, just off the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway. Now Ontario’s oldest surviving church, this historic building was presented to Chief Brant and his people by the British in recognition of their support during the American War of Independence. Book a tour of between April and October to see the chapel’s beautiful stained-glass windows, which celebrate the many achievements and contributions of the Six Nations.
A short distance away, the Woodland Cultural Centre offers exhibitions, workshops and education programs covering the rich histories and contemporary cultures of the Indigenous peoples of southern Ontario.
Photo credit: Discover Brantford
A haven for nature
Whether you’re staying close to downtown Brantford or want to venture a little farther, the Trans Canada Trail is your go-to destination to take in the fall colours.
Along the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway, you’ll find numerous parks and green spaces waiting to be explored. One highlight is the historic Wilkes Dam, located within Waterfront Park. First built in the 19th century by then mayor of Brantford George Samuel Wilkes, it’s now a popular location for fishing or birding.
Various Trail sections in Brantford wind through Canada’s only tract of Carolinian forest – one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country. Birders should explore the SC Johnson Trail – City of Brantford and the T.H. and B. Rail Trail to observe this area’s rare species during fall migration.
Looking for a longer escape in nature? Check out the Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail, the T.H. and B. Rail Trail or the SC Johnston Trail – County of Brant to continue your scenic autumnal journey.
Plan your trip to Brantford using our interactive map!
Main photo credit: Discover Brantford
