By MPP Bobbi Ann Brady
Summer is in full swing in Haldimand-Norfolk. There’s so much to do…even if it means taking a breather, kicking back on a hill and surveying a beautiful panorama. I want to encourage you to get out there this summer and take advantage of the wide range of activities that this wonderful part of the province offers. Don’t just sit there, get out and enjoy our own big backyard!
We all know Haldimand-Norfolk bursts with culture, natural beauty, history, and great food. It’s a summer paradise with something for everyone. And, with the added impetus of a trade war, it makes more sense than ever to spend our hard-earned dollars at home.
So…surfs up, dig your toes into the sand of Lake Erie at Port Dover, Turkey Point, Long Point, or Rock Point. There’s peace or bustle depending which beach and whatever your idea is of fun in the sun. Poke around at our Provincial Parks like Selkirk and tread Wheeler’s Walk Trail, which is a wooden expressway for two feet and a heartbeat through marsh and wetland. Wherever you choose, if you feel like a picnic and or crashing, there are camping facilities.
Check out Byng Island Conservation Area’s walking trails and beautiful views of the Grand River. If you want to get your steps in for the day, head over to the Rotary Riverside Trail, which runs parallel to the Grand River near Caledonia. Hike or bike the Cayuga Grand Vista Trail and traverse a restored CN rail bridge. If hiking or cycling is your thing in Norfolk, hit up the Waterford Heritage Trail. Cross the Black Bridge and enjoy the panoramic views of the Waterford Ponds. Moving along there’s the Lynn Valley Trail, which is perfect for you two-wheeled wonders in our midst. If you’re a thrill seeker on two wheels, head on over to St. William/Turkey Point for 80-plus kms of meticulously groomed trails courtesy of the Turkey Point Mountain Bike Club.
If you’d rather paddle the Grand River, canoes or kayaks are available for rent at various outdoor outfitters. If you like looking at water while standing on dry land, walk the pier and peer from the Port Maitland Lighthouse.
For foodies, there are fantastic farmers markets. When it comes to food, good luck finding any place with fresher, better quality food. We’ve got the best at the Dunnville, Caledonia, Simcoe, and Silver Lake at Port Dover Farmers Markets. Plus, a plethora of roadside stands and agri-tourism stops throughout the entire area.
There’s also plenty of brain food with our thought-provoking historic sites like Ruthven Park, Cottonwood Mansion, Edinburgh Square Heritage and Cultural Centre, Wilson MacDonald Memorial School, and Backus Conservation Heritage Area, where you can see the War of 1812 re-enactment on September 6th and 7th. There are also several museums dotting the landscape, which detail our local history.
Clink your glasses and try the suds at one of the many local wineries and craft breweries.
If you’re into our fine furry friends, check out the Killman Zoo in Caledonia or the Waterford Deer Park.
I’d love to mention all the festivals, but I’m out of space, so I’ll just mention the Homegrown Hideaway Folk Fest 2025 coming up July 12.
Keep in mind, each weekend local charities and groups hold various events around the area as well. There’s no shortage of things to do. So again, get out there and enjoy our own big backyard!
Bobbi Ann Brady is the MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk