Wilkes Dam — Attraction in Brantford

The dam and it's nearby trails are part of my daily walk loop with the dogs and I'm so grateful that it is. Sitting and listening to the water roll over the dam - regardless of what season it is - is such a relaxing thing. I usually end up having a nice conversation with a stranger, and even meet one of my best buddies down there through happenstance. The parkland across the river means you'll often catch glimpses of wildlife, and I've caught plenty of good sunsets while overlooking the dam & the river. Also, there's lots of birds along the trail if you're looking to see some (bring seed in your pocket to feed them!). There's usually enough parking, but local streets can easily extend that for those that don't mind a few extra steps. It's fun to go for a little tube float or paddle down the river from here and get out at Daubigny (avg 1.5hr float) or Cockschutt (avg 4hr). Spring runoff can get kinda crazy, so treat the high water with caution. Don't try going over the dam regardless of season. It looks fun, but people have died from the eddies that swirl underwater. My only complaint is the litter, but that is unfortunately ubiquitous it seems.... I pick up trash EVERY DAY that I walk down there and it's disappointing to say the least. Fishermen/women used to be good stewards to the land, but it seems that's no longer a thing.... If you do litter, please get familiar with my face and don't be surprised when I smack you something fierce if I see you do it. Same with tossing your cigarette butts into the undergrowth.... If you're gonna play stupid games, you better be prepared to win stupid...

For this Labour Day Monday I walked the SC Johnson Trail from Brant Crossing in the downtown core all the way to Wilkes Dam. It's a wonderful spot with lovely nature scenery.  It's a raised walk/cycle pathway surrounded by trees with glimpses of the river now and then. Many other paths intersect along the way to take you back to streets or to other trailways. You can hear the light roar of the water going over the dam as you near it on the path. There is an observation deck area with plenty of seating to rest after trekking all the way here. Currently watching canoeists getting into the water across the ways at a portage spot for a trip down the river. I also discovered a wee Butterflyway Project Garden next to the deck area. Beautiful views of nature all around you at this location. For those who drive to this spot, there is a small parking area available for use and a short stretch of steet parking. There is a #8 bus stop located by Parkside Dr and...

A great place to relax, centre yourself and listen to the crashing water of the Grand River flowing over the Dam. The Dam and surrounding area allow you to forget that there is a busy city just a few hundred meters away. There are three large benches that provide seating while you enjoy a coffee or a quick meal looking out over the River, just be sure to watch out for the seagulls 😉 When you're done visiting Wilks Dam there is a vast amount of trailways for you to explore and experience the many species of birds and other wildlife that live in this relatively untouched section...