McMaster University recognizes that the University and surrounding Hamilton area, including their nature spaces, are situated on traditional territories shared between the Haudenosaunee confederacy and Anishnaabe nations. These lands are protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum belt. The wampum uses the symbolism of a dish to represent the territory, and one spoon to represent that the people are to share the resources of the land and only take what they need.
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Recreational Trails

McMaster Forest is host to a network of recreational walking trails that allow visitors to experience and view many different habitat types. Benches are located along the recreational trails at key lookout points or rest areas. All recreational trails are classified as moderate terrain and are mainly unmaintained and signed “Use at Own Risk”. Dogs/pets are welcome, but must be leashed at all times for the safety of your pets, other trail users, wildlife, and research projects. Biking, horseback riding, and motorized vehicles are not permitted under any circumstances. Please adhere to all posted signage and stay on trail.

Currently the property does not have an accessible trail, but there are hopes to have one in the future.

Poison ivy, wood nettle, many thorny and bur like plants, dog ticks, and deer ticks (Lyme disease vector species) all exist on the property and proper precautions should be taken.

When winds exceed 40km/h the recreational trails on the property are closed for safety concerns.

Prairie Loop Trail (0.65 km) – Green

A short flat recreational trail that features tallgrass prairie habitat.

McMaster Forest Loop Trail (1.7 km) – White

A moderate terrain recreational trail with small to moderate elevation gains featuring new growth forests and ravines, old field/meadows, and prairie habitat.

Bluebird Loop Trail (0.6 km) – Blue

A short flat recreational trail that features old field/meadow habitat and many bluebird boxes.

McMullen Loop Trail (1.25 km) – Yellow

A moderate terrain recreational trail with small elevation gains featuring new growth and old growth forests, old field/meadows, and berry thickets.

Trail Usage