The Ultimate Guide to Beamer Memorial Conservation Area with Kids

Outlook at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area

Beamer Memorial Conservation Area, Niagara’s hidden treasure. Every year tons of people visit Dundas Peak for amazing views and picturesque waterfalls. What many do not know is there are equally if not more breath-taking and panoramic views in Grimsby Ontario.

The Toronto Skyline over Lake Ontario at the Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
View the Toronto Skyline over Lake Ontario at one of the lookout points

Beamer Memorial Conservation Area sits on the edge of the Niagara escarpment near Lake Ontario. It contains the 40 Mile Creek Valley, home to the remains of some old mills, as well as an abandoned quarry. The conservation area also has two waterfalls. Upper Beamer Falls is a washboard cascade waterfall, while Lower Beamer Falls is a smaller plunge fall further downstream.

Celine checking out Beamer Falls
Celine checking out Beamer Falls

Due to its location, the conservation area has become internationally recognized as an official ‘Important Bird Area’. In the spring months, the warm breezes come across Lake Ontario and into the escarpment, creating ideal updrafts for the spring hawk migration. Each year from March to May, the conservation area has the best vantage point in the Niagara Peninsula to observe the annual spring hawk migration.

What do I need to know When Visiting Beamer Memorial Conservation Area With Kids?

How much does it cost to visit Beamer Memorial Conservation Area?

Visiting Beamer Memorial Conservation Area is free!

Beautiful Escarpment Landscapes at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
Beautiful Escarpment Landscapes

Where can I park when visiting Beamer Memorial Conservation Area?

There are two lots available when visiting the conservation area. The main lot is at the end of Quarry Rd off Ridge Rd. There is also a small falls outlook parking area just past the creek on Ridge Rd. Here you can take a short walk to see the main falls.

Is there cell phone reception at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area?

Yes, as the conservation area is less than 5 minutes from Grimsby, the park gets full cell phone reception.

Hawkwatch Tower
Hawkwatch Tower

Are there washrooms at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area?

Yes, there is a comfort station the main area, by the hawkwatch tower.

How is visiting Beamer Memorial Conservation Area with Children?

The conservation area is a great place to bring your kids. As well as being a great place to watch the spring hawk migration. The main lookout trail is flat and gravel-covered, making it easy to bring your stroller. There is also a large open space by the hawkwatch tower, where your kids can run around.

The Yaps Exploring the Bruce side trail
The Yaps Exploring the Bruce side trail

Do be careful at the lookout area though. The escarpment edge is not fenced off and someone could easily fall off. Also the main Bruce and Bruce side trail to the falls is quite rugged. So if needed make sure to use your baby carrier instead of your stroller if you plan on heading down to the bottom of the falls.

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Where can I stay near Beamer Memorial Conservation Area?

Overview

Sitting at the intersection of the Niagara escarpment and the 40 Creek Valley the site offers some amazing views. Although, the park is more than a stunning view. Since 1984, the area has been identified as one of 38 critical nature areas in Canada. As well as being recognized as an ‘Important Bird Area’, the valley also contains one of the largest escarpment forests in the Niagara region.

Stunning escarpment forests  at Beamer memorial conservation area
Stunning Escarpment Forests

The park contains 3 trails, the Lookout Trail, a Bruce Side Trail and a section of the Bruce Trail that passes through the park.

Escarpment Cliffs
Escarpment Cliffs

There are 3 lookout points on the Lookout Trail. Just follow the trail to the edge of the escarpment. Here you can take in the spectacular views of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario below. Especially in the fall when the Sugar Maple and tall Red Oak filled valley comes to life with colour.

Panoramic Escarpment and Lakeside views
Panoramic Escarpment and Lakeside views

Just to the west of the lookout area, along the Bruce Trail, is the trace of an abandoned quarry that operated in the early 1900’s.

The remains of an old quarry
The remains of an old quarry

The main falls is easily accessible from the overlook parking lot. The lower falls, are a bit more difficult. Entering from the main lot, follow the Bruce Side trail up the river to the falls.

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