Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Spanning 100 square kilometres across the Niagara Escarpment, Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area is a biodiverse natural attraction known for its stunning views, winding forest trails and established rock climbing routes.
The dramatic limestone cliffs, soaring turkey vultures and thousand-year-old cedars make this spot a popular location for birding, photography, hiking, geocaching, climbing and bouldering.
Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area | Hamilton Halton Brant
How to get to Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Location: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton
By car: Access the main gates of Rattlesnake Point off Appleby Line, which connects to Queen Elizabeth Way in the south or to Highway 401 from the north. Spring, summer and fall parking is available in the upper and lower parking lots. In the winter, only the upper lot is open.
By transit: GO Transit offers train service between Toronto and Milton. From the Milton station, it’s a short taxi or Uber ride to the park. Parkbus is a private tour company that offers bus service from the Bloor-Yonge TTC station to Rattlesnake Point on select dates.
Know before you go
Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area is open year-round although the hours of operation may change seasonally.
Reservations to enter the park are recommended, not required. Reserve your spot and save money on gate fees by booking online in advance.
Download the Rattlesnake Point Trail Guide to help plan your day of hiking.
Things to do at Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Discover more activities and experiences.
Take in amazing views
Take a hike up to the Buffalo Crag Lookout Point, one of five lookout points with awesome views of the Niagara Escarpment.
Plan a camping trip
Fall asleep under the stars in one of Rattlesnake Point’s 17 available campsites. Reserve your site through Visitor Services before you visit.
Observe historic cedar trees
Admire the ancient cedar trees in this conservation area that are more than 800 years old. They represent the rich history of the escarpment and contribute to the scenic views.
Go for a hike
Discover breath-taking views on the 7.2-kilometre Nassagaweya Canyon Trail, which extends across the canyon and into the neighbouring Crawford Lake Conservation Area.
Enjoy rock climbing
Rock climbing enthusiasts can choose from over 230 top roping climbing routes at three designated sites including Nassagaweya Lookout and Buffalo Crag.
Articles and itineraries
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Interesting facts about Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Although it’s named Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, there are no actual rattlesnakes in the area. Various theories as to why it’s named Rattlesnake Point include the snake-like path along the stretch of the escarpment or the rattlesnake fern that grows within the park.
Geocaching is a popular pastime in this park. Geocaching is a digital treasure hunt that uses a GPS-based app instead of traditional maps. Visitors can use the app to discover new trails and even hide their own geocache for others to discover in the future.
Last updated: April 26, 2024