Cycling day trip from Hamilton to Ancaster

Roll out from Hamilton’s lower city and climb the Niagara Escarpment on the Chedoke/Hamilton–Brantford rail trails. It’s a steady but friendly ascent (about 270 m) with big-payoff views back over the harbour. Once on top, settle into relaxed riding through the Dundas Valley’s shaded forests and meadows, then drift into Ancaster via quiet streets.

Expect a mix of surfaces: mostly paved with long stretches of well‑packed gravel, and the route is largely on cycleways and quiet roads—great for a low‑stress spin. Wider tires make the gravel comfy.

Nice detours if you’ve got time: Tiffany Falls or Sherman Falls are both close to Ancaster’s village core. Hamilton is nicknamed the Waterfall Capital of the World, thanks to the escarpment, which is also part of a UNESCO World Biosphere. Ancaster itself is one of Ontario’s oldest communities (1790s), with heritage buildings, cafés, and the historic Ancaster Mill nearby.

Pack some water, mind other trail users, and enjoy that smooth, scenic climb to the top.