Trip Rating: 4/5
This trip is an extension of the Hamilton Harbour paddle and focuses on one of its most rewarding side routes. Grindstone Creek flows into the Burlington side of the harbour and winds north through the Royal Botanical Gardens toward the Great Falls, with headwaters reaching into Flamborough. Despite its proximity to the city, the creek feels surprisingly remote once you are a short distance upstream.
The creek offers calm water, narrow channels, and excellent wildlife viewing. Over multiple trips, this area has consistently delivered sightings of turtles, heron, deer, muskrat, and osprey, with bald eagles appearing occasionally. It is a short paddle, but one that rewards a slow pace and careful observation.
Launch Sites
There are two practical launch options.
• Pier 4 Park (Bayfront Park)
Launching here allows Grindstone Creek to be paddled as part of a longer Hamilton Harbour loop.
• Spring Gardens Road
This launch shortens the trip significantly and is well suited for an evening paddle or a relaxed outing. The launch is a concrete dock with limited free parking and no washrooms. Due to its popularity with bird watchers and train enthusiasts, parking often fills quickly. Overflow parking is available at the Laking Garden lot, followed by a short walk to the launch.
Coordinates: 43.289446, -79.885885
Trip Length and Conditions
This creek behaves very differently depending on season and water level.
In spring, currents can be strong and fast moving. Before launching, it is strongly recommended to walk the trail upstream to assess flow conditions. This simple scout makes a significant difference in understanding what you are committing to.
- Distance: approximately 5 km
- Time: about 1 hour at a relaxed pace
- Flow: calm in low water, energetic in spring
Route Notes and Highlights
• Lower Creek and Harbour Transition
The lower portion near the harbour is wide and gentle, acting as a smooth transition from open water into the narrower creek system.
• Royal Botanical Gardens Section
As the creek enters RBG land, the surroundings change. The water narrows, reeds and trees close in, and wildlife sightings increase. This section is best enjoyed at a slow pace, letting the creek unfold naturally.
• Upper Creek Exploration
Upstream sections vary greatly with water level. In low water, progress becomes shallow and winding. In higher flow, currents demand more active boat control and attention to eddies.
Difficulty
Under most conditions, Grindstone Creek is a calm and approachable paddle. Seasonal flow is the primary factor influencing difficulty.
- Some currents are common in spring.
- Scout upstream on foot before launching if unfamiliar.
- Dress for immersion and carry appropriate safety gear.
With normal precautions, this is a rewarding creek paddle that combines accessibility with a genuine sense of being immersed in nature.
Cost
$0
The Royal Botanical Gardens
Grindstone Creek flows through the heart of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Canada’s largest botanical garden and a National Historic Site. A post-paddle walk through the gardens is a natural extension of the trip.
- Protects and restores over 2,450 acres of sensitive habitats
- Supports approximately 50 listed species at risk
- Leads large-scale freshwater marsh restoration projects
- Promotes environmental education and stewardship
More information about the RBG can be found at rbg.ca.
Another paddler’s photo-based account of Grindstone Creek is available here.
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