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The Site: The Hockley Heights Loop Hike

Hockley Valley is part of the Niagara Escarpment which was created by a long process of erosion. The escarpment cuts dramatically across the southern heartland of the province. The Nottawasaga River cuts a picturesque gorge across the escarpment. Forested moraines and open meadows lie upstream, and swamp and bottomland forest spread across the valley floor, stretching for several kilometres. Hockley Valley is part of the Niagara Parks System, and the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve. There are no visitor facilities, but Hockley Valley is a favourite site for hiking and nature appreciation. The Bruce Trail, as well as several side trails, wind through the reserve.

The Hockley Heights hike is one of the most challenging hikes on our website. The trail is a bit isolated and you are not likely to meet many other hikers on the trail. The section between waypoints (010) and (011) is particularly difficult with very long and steep climbs. This is the area of three big hills known as “The Three Sisters”. Do not attempt to climb The Three Sisters in wet weather. The trail is poorly routed over the last “Sister” and we recommend angling off to the right when 10-15 m from the top. This gives a safer, more gradual route after which you can circle back to the trail at the top. This is a great hike if you are looking for a good workout over its 23 km length and a total ascent of almost 900 m.