Six Nations of the Grand River
The Six Nations of the Grand River Territory is a unique community in southwestern Ontario. It is home to the Haudenosaunee, “They Build Houses”, made up of members of the Mohawk, Onondaga, Oneida, Seneca, Tuscarora and Cayuga Nations. This territory is the largest First Nations Reserve in Canada and is the only one in North America in which all six nations live together as part of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy.
To learn more about all there is to see and do here, scroll down or visit the Six Nations Tourism website.
Please note that due to Six Nations' guidelines around public health restrictions, many sites remain closed at this time.
Where is Six Nations of the Grand River?
The Six Nations of the Grand River Territory is just south of Brantford, along the banks of the Grand River within one of the last remaining Carolinian forests. It is located just outside the Greater Golden Horseshoe, with easy access to the 400 series highways, it is only about an hour from Toronto and Niagara Falls.
Things to Do in Six Nations of the Grand River
Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Haudenosaunee People and learn more about the Six Nations at the variety of historic sites, cultural centres, outdoor attractions and culinary options.
Chiefswood Park and the Six Nations Nature Trail in Ohsweken provide visitors with stunning natural scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore one of the last Carolinian forests in North America along the Nature Trail or enjoy water sports like kayaking and canoeing on the Grand River. Snowshoeing, hiking and cycling are all a part of the experience in these beautiful parks. With so much to explore, stay awhile in the newly built Chiefswood Park Cabins and become immersed in the Six Nations community.
The Chiefswood National Historic Site (NHS) is located beside the Park and is the birthplace and childhood home of renowned Mohawk-English poetess and author, E. Pauline Johnson. Visitors are invited to learn about the Johnson family’s traditions and celebrations on a tour of the historic home and grounds, as well as an in-depth look at the work and life of E. Pauline Johnson.
A visit to Iroqrafts is a must while in Ohsweken, opened in 1959, this shop features beadwork and soapstone sculptures, local fine art, moccasins, books and gifts. Be sure to check out the other local art studios for an array of handcrafted items including pottery, leatherwork and jewellery.
The Kayanase Greenhouse and Longhouse welcomes visitors to explore the region through interactive tours. The Longhouse Project seeks to raise and support cultural awareness of the community while giving visitors an exceptional look into the history and culture of the Six Nations peoples. The greenhouse was built in 2010 with nearly 17,000 square metres of space within the walls and a mission to help restore native plants by propagating seeds, planting, monitoring, and eventually restoring the healthy biodiversity of the region.
Things to Know About Visiting Six Nations of the Grand River
There is so much to see and do in Six Nations of the Grand River. Start your visit with some local favourites:
Fun Fact
Chiefswood NHS features two entrances, symbolizing the shared cultures of the Johnson family. The south entrance faces the Grand River to welcome Six Nations community members who arrive by canoe, while the north entrance welcomes visitors from near and far as they travel on the roads. It truly is a place Where Cultures Meet.
Where to go for live music
The Grand River ‘Champion of Champions’ Powwow, is an Indigenous festival and competition, held annually on the fourth weekend of July.
Where to go hiking/snowshoeing
Chiefswood Park is situated amongst stunning Carolinian forest and prairie grassland on the banks of the iconic Grand River at Ohsweken. Visitors can create their own experience, whether enjoying cultural tours on the land or water, going for a hike or renting a canoe to discover this pristine nature on their own.
Last updated: October 22, 2021