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Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area: Cliffs, Canyons, and Cedars

Explore dramatic cliffs, scenic trails, and ancient forests at this Niagara Escarpment gem near Milton, Ontario. Hiking, climbing, and nature await!

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Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, located in Milton, Ontario, offers stunning views from the Niagara Escarpment. Hike along cliff-edge trails, explore ancient cedar forests, and even try rock climbing. Despite its name, the area is fern-rich, not rattlesnake-infested.

A brief summary to Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area (Reservations Required)

Local tips

  • Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to guarantee your spot and save on gate fees.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking the longer Nassagaweya Canyon Trail.
  • Keep an eye out for turkey vultures soaring overhead and deer in the forests.
  • Check the Conservation Halton website for seasonal hours, trail conditions, and any alerts.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area is accessible by car via Appleby Line, which connects to Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) from the south and Highway 401 from the north. From either highway, follow Appleby Line to the park entrance at 7200 Appleby Line. Parking is available in the upper and lower lots, though the lower lot may be closed in winter. Parking fees apply. As of July 2025, a reservation is recommended, which includes the parking fee. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    GO Transit offers train service to Milton. From Milton GO station, take a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area. The ride is approximately 15-20 minutes, costing around $25-$35. Alternatively, Parkbus offers service from Toronto to Rattlesnake Point on select dates. Check their schedule and book in advance. As of July 2025, a one-way fare from Toronto is approximately $30-$40.

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Discover more about Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area (Reservations Required)

Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, a part of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Milton, Ontario, the park boasts dramatic cliffs of dolomitic limestone that rise over 100 meters, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area's history stretches back to Indigenous peoples and early settlers, with remnants of old quarry operations still visible. Established as a conservation area in 1961, the park's name may come from the snake-like path glaciers cut along the escarpment or the rattlesnake fern found in the area, not actual rattlesnakes. Today, visitors can explore over 20 kilometers of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, including forests and cliff habitats. Popular trails include the Vista Adventure Trail (1.5 km, easy), Buffalo Crag Trail (3 km, moderate), and the Nassagaweya Canyon Trail (7.2 km one-way to Crawford Lake, moderate/difficult). The Nassagaweya Trail connects Rattlesnake Point to Crawford Lake Conservation Area, offering a longer, more challenging hike. Ancient cedars, some over 800 years old, cling to the cliff edges. Rattlesnake Point is also a popular destination for rock climbing, with designated climbing areas and numerous routes. Other activities include birdwatching, camping, and picnicking. Reservations are recommended to guarantee entry.

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