Home
McMaster University is surrounded by beautiful natural areas. Just steps from campus are waterfalls, valleys, meadows, wetlands and forests–all of which are scenic and dynamic places to explore. The picturesque landscape of West Hamilton was a vital reason for the placement of McMaster University almost one hundred years ago. Since then, our long association with the world-class Royal Botanical Gardens and other local conservation organizations have ensured that McMaster’s natural backyard is protected and preserved.
Information Box Group
Natural Areas Natural Areas Full Listing
Ready to get outside?
Check out the full listing of all the natural areas surrounding McMaster!
Head Outdoors With Us Events Overview
Nature @ McMaster facilitates hikes, canoe trips, and restoration events with staff, students, and community groups!
Upcoming Events
Exam De-Stress Hike #3
Hikes
Walk at the Grindstone Marshes (Hamilton Naturalists' Club)
Hamilton Naturalists' Club, Hikes
Winter Tree ID at the RBG Arboretum
Hamilton Naturalists' Club, Hikes
Winter Walk at Sheelah Dunn Dooley Nature Sanctuary
Hamilton Naturalists' Club, Hikes
Nature Stories
McMaster News ➚
Bird observatory taking flight at McMaster Forest Nature Preserve
Local Areas Updates, Local Natural Areas, McMaster Forest, Nature Stories
Meet Our Bioblitz Experts!
McMaster Forest, Nature Stories
Celebrate Bioblitz Week 2025 with Nature at McMaster!
Education, Local Natural Areas, McMaster Forest, Nature Stories
Faculty of Science ➚
Student puts his love for ecology, birds and snakes to work on campus
Education, Nature Stories
Happy Pollinator Week!
Education, Nature Stories
Daily News ➚
Biochemistry student works with Nature at Mac to plant rare, Indigenous fruit trees
Local Natural Areas, Nature Stories