Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, Protected area in Ontario, Canada.
Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is a protected area in Ontario featuring walking trails through a mature deciduous forest next to the Niagara River Gorge and Whirlpool. The paths wind along cliff faces and reveal natural formations carved by water and glacial action over thousands of years.
The reserve was established to protect the rare Carolinian Forest ecosystem that now survives in only small pockets across southern Ontario. The gorge itself was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age and subsequently shaped by flowing water over thousands of years.
The reserve houses numerous native plant species, including maple trees, sassafras, tulip trees, red mulberry trees, and staghorn sumacs within its boundaries.
Entry to the reserve requires descending a steep metal staircase, so sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness are needed to navigate the trails. The return climb is strenuous, and paths become slippery when wet or icy.
The site is popular with rock climbers who train on specific formations, and a permit system helps balance climbing access with protection of fragile plant life. This arrangement was developed in partnership with climbing organizations.
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