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Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

Ontario

Hamilton

Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

Ontario

Hamilton

Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop

Easy

hikers

Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop

Q: Is this loop suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop is generally considered easy. The Sassafras Point Trail is rated 'green difficulty' with minimal elevation gain, and the Princess Point Trail is described as 'short, accessible'. The overall loop has a relatively gentle incline and decline.

Q: What is the terrain like on the loop?

The trail offers a varied landscape, including waterfront paths along Cootes Paradise, forested sections, and open grassy fields. The Sassafras Point Trail specifically is a singletrack path. You'll find diverse backdrops, from serene woods to charming waterfront spots.

Q: What notable landmarks or viewpoints can I expect?

Along the route, you'll encounter brilliant views of Cootes Paradise, especially from wooden platforms. Key highlights include Princess Point and Sassafras Point . The trail is also part of the extensive Royal Botanical Gardens network.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see?

Wildlife sightings are common along the trails. Hikers frequently observe various bird species, and raccoons have also been spotted in the area.

Q: Is the Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Sassafras Point Trail, which forms part of this loop. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and you clean up after them.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

Specific parking information is not provided in the trail data, but as part of the Royal Botanical Gardens, there are likely designated parking areas available for visitors. It's advisable to check the Royal Botanical Gardens website for the most current parking details.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The area offers a different experience throughout the seasons, making it a trail that can be enjoyed year-round. Each season brings its own unique beauty, from lush greenery in spring/summer to vibrant fall colours and serene winter landscapes.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to access the Royal Botanical Gardens trails?

The Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop is located within the Royal Botanical Gardens. While specific permit requirements for this loop are not detailed, it's recommended to check the official Royal Botanical Gardens website for any entrance fees or permits that may apply to access their trail network.

Q: Does the loop connect to other trails?

Yes, this trail system serves as a significant hub, connecting to other routes. The loop includes sections of the Princess Point Trail and the Sassafras Point Trail, and also intersects with parts of the Trans Canada Trail (Westdale-McMaster), Churchill Park Accessible Loop, Ginger Valley Trail, Waters Edge Trail, Ravine Road Trail, and Caleb's Walk.

Q: Are there other activities available at Princess Point?

Beyond hiking, Princess Point is a natural gathering place that also provides a canoe launch to the marsh. During appropriate seasons, it offers access for ice skating, providing diverse recreational opportunities.

01:30

5.71km

50m

Hiking

Hike the easy 3.5-mile Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop in the Royal Botanical Gardens, featuring waterfront views and diverse wildli

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

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Parking

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356 m

Princess Point

Highlight • Viewpoint

Princess Point sits at the edge of the Cootes Paradise marshlands and is a popular spot for enjoying the outdoors around Hamilton. The area offers easy access to the marsh, great views across the water, and a calm launch point for paddlers. It’s also a major trail junction, linking paths throughout the Royal Botanical Gardens with routes like the Desjardins Trail and the Waterfront Trail.

Tip by

1.75 km

Royal Botanical Gardens

Highlight • Structure

Stretching for over 980 hectares between Burlington and Hamilton, the Royal Botanical Gardens are Canada's largest botanical garden and also one of the most diverse. Visitors can wander along the many trails through the gardens, forests, and marshlands. The gardens also encompass the 600-hectare Cootes Paradise Nature Sanctuary, itself an important environmental landmark.

Tip by

3.17 km

Sassafras Point

Highlight • Viewpoint

Sassafras Point sits at the end of a peninsula offering great views across the water. The trail is shaded and isn't too difficult making it accessible to most visitors.

Tip by

5.71 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.88 km

2.81 km

Surfaces

2.97 km

1.17 km

990 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Monday 25 May

23°C

9°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this loop suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop is generally considered easy. The Sassafras Point Trail is rated 'green difficulty' with minimal elevation gain, and the Princess Point Trail is described as 'short, accessible'. The overall loop has a relatively gentle incline and decline.

What is the terrain like on the loop?

The trail offers a varied landscape, including waterfront paths along Cootes Paradise, forested sections, and open grassy fields. The Sassafras Point Trail specifically is a singletrack path. You'll find diverse backdrops, from serene woods to charming waterfront spots.

What notable landmarks or viewpoints can I expect?

Along the route, you'll encounter brilliant views of Cootes Paradise, especially from wooden platforms. Key highlights include Princess Point and Sassafras Point. The trail is also part of the extensive Royal Botanical Gardens network.

What kind of wildlife might I see?

Wildlife sightings are common along the trails. Hikers frequently observe various bird species, and raccoons have also been spotted in the area.

Is the Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Sassafras Point Trail, which forms part of this loop. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and you clean up after them.

Where can I park to access the trail?

Specific parking information is not provided in the trail data, but as part of the Royal Botanical Gardens, there are likely designated parking areas available for visitors. It's advisable to check the Royal Botanical Gardens website for the most current parking details.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The area offers a different experience throughout the seasons, making it a trail that can be enjoyed year-round. Each season brings its own unique beauty, from lush greenery in spring/summer to vibrant fall colours and serene winter landscapes.

Are there any fees or permits required to access the Royal Botanical Gardens trails?

The Princess Point and Sassafras Point Loop is located within the Royal Botanical Gardens. While specific permit requirements for this loop are not detailed, it's recommended to check the official Royal Botanical Gardens website for any entrance fees or permits that may apply to access their trail network.

Does the loop connect to other trails?

Yes, this trail system serves as a significant hub, connecting to other routes. The loop includes sections of the Princess Point Trail and the Sassafras Point Trail, and also intersects with parts of the Trans Canada Trail (Westdale-McMaster), Churchill Park Accessible Loop, Ginger Valley Trail, Waters Edge Trail, Ravine Road Trail, and Caleb's Walk.

Are there other activities available at Princess Point?

Beyond hiking, Princess Point is a natural gathering place that also provides a canoe launch to the marsh. During appropriate seasons, it offers access for ice skating, providing diverse recreational opportunities.

Is this loop suitable for families with children?

Given its 'easy' difficulty rating, varied scenery, and common wildlife sightings, this loop is generally suitable for families with children. The accessible nature of parts of the trail makes it a good option for a family outing.