Formally dubbed by King George V in 1930, today, the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is a 2,422-acre vast nature reserve, owning land in both Hamilton and Burlington. The goal of the RBG is to protect and preserve the unique ecosystems present in this region while making such spaces available and accessible to guests and those who live and play in the Hamilton-Burlington community. Despite being one of the leading tourist attractions between Niagara Falls and Toronto, the RBG is a focal point for the ‘Global Strategy for Plant Conservation.’ Under this position, the RGB is recognized for its work and research in local and regional horticulture, education, conservation and its role as a scientific resource. Ways in which the aforementioned functions are actively present in the RGB include the protection of endangered flora like the Bashful Bulrush and the Red Mulberry who, without such conservation efforts, would no longer be a member of this rich Canadian landscape.
Today, the RBG works closely with McMaster stewardship initiatives to promote trail care and the rehabilitation of local habitats. The RBC welcomes students and encourages them to use the officially marked trails in RBG’s nature reserves for their exploration and enjoyment. The RBG recognizes the stresses of student life, and they fully believe that hiking and being outdoors is healthy both body and mind and should often be done. However, the RBG does ask for student awareness to help preserve the gorgeous, exciting and rare species houses in the Hamilton communities and to act as ambassadors of McMaster, please follow proper visitor etiquette:
- Trails are open dawn to dusk, for foot traffic only; please no bicycles.
- Please stay on the officially marked trails; trail maps are posted at each trailhead.
- Take only photographs, leave only footprints.
- Dogs must be leashed at all times; owners must clean up after their pets.
- Faculty/staff/students must contact RBG before conducting any research/studies/classes etc. on the lands.
Natural Areas: Royal Botanical Gardens
Arboretum
The Arboretum is an English landscape park, cared for and maintained by the Royal Botanical Gardens. As implied by its name, the Arboretum is the place where visitors can view…
Berry Tract
An escarpment trail system featuring a network of hiking trails. The area is home to old orchards that are frequented by deer. Parking is available off of Wesley Avenue. RBG…
Churchill Park
Churchill Park is managed by the City of Hamilton, but the land is owned by the RBG. Adjacent to Cootes Paradise it offers several activities, including lawn bowling, soccer and…
Cootes Paradise (North Shore)
Formally established in 1927, Cootes Paradise Sanctuary is significant as a migratory bird flyover zone and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Featuring over 320 hectares…
Cootes Paradise (South Shore)
Formally established in 1927, Cootes Paradise sanctuary is significant as a migratory bird flyover zone and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Featuring over 320 hectares…
Laking Gardens
Laking Garden is home to RBG’s herbaceous perennial collections. In early summer the area is blooming with an incredible iris and peony collection. Year round, the garden offers spectacular views…
Desjardins Trail
Open all year round, the Desjardins Canal is a great area for runners, bikers, walkers, rollerbladers, skateboarders and hikers alike! It forms a section of the Hamilton Waterfront Trail close…
Hendrie Valley
Hendrie Valley Nature Sanctuary is a 100-hectare sanctuary centered on the Grindstone Creek Valley and features over 4 kilometres of trails. The area backs onto the RBG's largest cultivated garden,…
Princess Point
Princess Point is located on the South-East corner of Cootes Paradise and is a hub of recreational activities in the area. Not only is it a great place to explore…
Rock Chapel Sanctuary
An escarpment property with five different scenic views! The forested property is host to a network of trails, including a section of the Bruce Trail. Hikers can access the nearby…
The Rock Garden
The Rock Garden reflects a forward-facing environmental approach to environmental sustainability. RBG describes the Rock Garden as "a garden for the 21st century, one that embraces sustainable trends in garden…
Cootes Paradise
Formally established in 1927, Cootes Paradise sanctuary is significant as a migratory bird flyover zone and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Featuring over 320 hectares…