5 Reasons to Look Forward to Summer in Dundas

5 Reasons to Look Forward to Summer in Dundas

SUMMER HAS COME EARLY THIS YEAR, OR MAYBE NOT. SO COME ENJOY THESE 5 AWESOME SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN VALLEY TOWN.

I love Dundas and everything it has to offer, from food, hiking trails, cycling, waterfalls and of course the people. Come and enjoy what Dundas has to offer. 

We moved to Dundas a second time, and it is still a fantastic town with wonderful people. It has been the best decision we've made twice, to move our family here. Here are just 5 reasons to get out and enjoy what Dundas offers.

1. WATERFALLS

Tew's Falls

Dundas boasts over 5 waterfalls, like the 41-meter-high Tew Falls, the tallest in Hamilton and second in Southern Ontario only to Niagara Falls. Other waterfalls in the area are Webster Falls, Dundas Falls and three Sydenham Falls, plus the nearby Tiffany and Sherman Falls. Keep in mind that Tew Falls and the adjacent Dundas Peak require reservations during the busy tourist season and parking is not allowed in the area.

2. Cycling and Hiking

With an abundance of green spaces in and around Dundas, there are plenty of trails to hike, dirt trails to cycle, the rail trails from Hamilton to Brantford, the Bruse Trail and even the streets of the town are hike-worthy. Even Canadian Olympian, Clara Hughes trained on the challenging Sydenham Hill, repeating cycling up and down. See the plaque dedicated to her at the top of Clara's Climb. Three large cycling events take place in or near Dundas, the spring opening of Paris2Ancaster kicks off the season nearby and later in September, there is both Tour De Dundas (combined with Taste of Dundas) and the ALS Revolution Ride, both at the end of September, each other over 300 participating riders.

3. Food, Food and more Food

If you're hungry Dundas is the place. It has it all. Over 30 locations in the downtown alone offer a variety of choices, including, Asian, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai and fabulous fast foods, 2 breweries, 2 chocolate shops, 3 pubs, breakfast, diner, fine dining, and several coffee shops and pizza shops. There is something for everyone and every mood. Check ahead, as many locations have limited hours or are closed on Sunday/Monday, but something is always open.

4. Summer Beverages

There are ample opportunities to quench your thirst in Dundas. We have our own local Shawn & Ed Brewery plus the newly opened Barrel Heart Brewing and Blending. We also have The Winchester Arms British Pub, Collins Brewhouse and The Thirsty Cactus restaurants. Need a different kind of kick to your drink, Dundas has loads of coffee shops; Domestiique Cafe Cyclo Sportif, Detour Coffee Roaster, Starbucks, 2 Tim Hortons, and check out Jax Sweet Shoppe for a breakfast menu, ice creams and other sweets.

5. Cactus Festival 

Join us in Dundas on August 16-18, 2024 for the 49th annual Cactus Festival, one of the top 100 festivals in Ontario. It all kicks off with the street parade on Thursday, August 15. Starting on Friday and going until late Sunday, the main Kings Street is closed while the local shops and other vendors occupy the streets with their food and wears. Entertainment is set at four stage locations along the street including a family-friendly one and a family fun zone. The 2024 entertainment lineup as yet to be, check the Catcus Fest Website for more information.

By Travis Singleton