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Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway

4.5
·6 reviews·Brantford, Canada

A scenic 19km paved and gravel loop along the Grand River, perfect for walks and bike rides, offering calming views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Cooler months

More pleasant temperatures

CrowdMedium
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Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway - Image 1

Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway

Best Time

Cooler months

More pleasant temperatures

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic 19km paved and gravel loop along the Grand River, perfect for walks and bike rides, offering calming views.

4.5
(6 reviews)

"Hands down, this trail is nicer then all of them. Am I exagerating? Yes. By alot. Still. Decent trail"

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Sun Protection Needed

A significant portion of the 19km loop is exposed to direct sunlight. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water!

🚲 Great for Cycling

The paved and gravel surfaces make it ideal for a bike ride, offering a good workout with scenic views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand River Views

Grand River Views

Along the pathway

Enjoy scenic vistas of the Grand River, offering a calming backdrop for your walk or ride.

19km Loop Trail

19km Loop Trail

Full circuit

A substantial, mostly paved and gravel loop perfect for a moderate walk or a dedicated bike ride.

Clean and Well-Maintained

Clean and Well-Maintained

Throughout the pathway

Appreciated for its cleanliness, this trail offers a pleasant experience compared to many others.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Accessibility & Conditions

The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway is largely paved and gravel, making it accessible for leisurely walks and bike rides. Be aware that a good portion is in direct sunlight, so plan accordingly, especially on hot days. Some sections can get busy, particularly near Ford View Park.

Best Experience Tips

While enjoyable year-round, some visitors suggest the trail is even better in colder weather. Keep an eye out for potential encounters with individuals experiencing homelessness in certain park areas. The 19km loop offers a substantial, scenic route.

Best Times

When
Cooler months
Why
More pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Paved path by the grand river?

☀️ Sun Protection Needed

A significant portion of the 19km loop is exposed to direct sunlight. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water! Reddit

🚲 Great for Cycling

The paved and gravel surfaces make it ideal for a bike ride, offering a good workout with scenic views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strolls

Perfect for a moderate, enjoyable walk. The trail is well-maintained and offers a calming experience. Reddit

📍 Trail Information Hub

For detailed maps and official trail information, check the Brantford city website. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Sun Protection Needed

A significant portion of the 19km loop is exposed to direct sunlight. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water! Reddit

🚲 Great for Cycling

The paved and gravel surfaces make it ideal for a bike ride, offering a good workout with scenic views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strolls

Perfect for a moderate, enjoyable walk. The trail is well-maintained and offers a calming experience. Reddit

📍 Trail Information Hub

For detailed maps and official trail information, check the Brantford city website. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(6 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway is largely praised for its scenic Grand River views and well-maintained, accessible 19km loop, making it great for walks and bike rides. While some users note sun exposure and occasional encounters in urban park areas, the overall experience is described as calming and enjoyable, often considered a decent trail compared to others.

"Gordan Glaves Grand River Trail was a life changing experience.
Ive been to Thailand, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Jamaica, and many other places.
But hands down, this trail is nicer then all of them.

Am I exagerating? Yes. By alot.
Still. Decent trail"

Adam Kitchener

"Calming trail. I had a great experience here and it's a very good experience. I'm sure it's better when it's colder though because I went on a day that was really hot. I really appreciate how clean the trail was where I was walking besides a few things but it's better than a lot of trails I've been to."

Stevie Morales

"Great for a leisure, moderate walk. The 19km loop is 90% paved/gravel and easily accessible. Great for a bike ride as well. A good portion of the loop is in direct sunlight tho so be aware of that. And of course with it being in the middle of the city, pretty ppl busy on certain portions. Other than the amount of homeless and druggies at Ford view park, this 19km walk is very enjoyable"

Sarah Wiscombe

What People Like

Scenic river views
Clean and well-maintained
Accessible paved/gravel path

What People Dislike

Significant sun exposure
Occasional urban park issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway runs along the Grand River in Brantford. While specific access points vary, it's a well-known paved path by the river, often used for walking and biking. You can find more detailed trail information on the official Brantford city website. Reddit

Parking availability can vary depending on the access point. Areas near Ford View Park might offer parking, but it can get busy. It's advisable to check local signage or the city's trail map for designated parking areas. Reddit

Information on public transport routes that get you close to the pathway is best found on the Brantford Transit website. Consider routes that service areas near the Grand River. Reddit

Yes, the pathway is largely paved and gravel, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some sections might have minor inclines or uneven surfaces. Reddit

Entry points can be found at various parks and access roads along the Grand River. Ford View Park is one mentioned location, but exploring the city's trail map will reveal multiple convenient access points. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway is a public park and trail system, so there is no entrance fee. It's free to access and enjoy. Reddit

As a public outdoor pathway, it is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific park areas might have posted hours, but the trail itself is typically open for use throughout daylight hours. Reddit

No booking is required. The pathway is an open public space, so you can visit anytime during daylight hours without needing to reserve a spot. Reddit

Generally, no permits are required for casual walking, jogging, or cycling. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or commercial activity, you would need to contact the city for permits. Reddit

Yes, the pathway is typically open year-round. However, during winter months, sections might be less maintained or covered in snow and ice, affecting accessibility. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main loop is approximately 19 kilometers (about 12 miles) long, offering a substantial route for a longer walk or bike ride. Reddit

The pathway is predominantly paved and gravel, making it suitable for most fitness levels and easy to navigate for walking and cycling. Reddit

Restroom availability can vary. While some park areas might have facilities, it's advisable to check the city's trail map or plan accordingly, especially for longer excursions. Reddit

A significant portion of the 19km loop is in direct sunlight, so be prepared with sun protection, especially during warmer months. Reddit

While the trail is generally enjoyable, some users have noted encounters with individuals experiencing homelessness or drug use, particularly near Ford View Park. It's advisable to remain aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trafficked areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Grand River itself offers beautiful scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. Look for open areas with clear river vistas and natural landscapes for picturesque shots. Reddit

Yes, the pathway provides opportunities for nature photography with its river views and surrounding greenery. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and seasonal foliage. Reddit

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the scenery. Early mornings can also be serene with soft light and fewer people. Reddit

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, if you plan on commercial photography or videography, it's best to check with the city for any specific regulations. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. It's crucial to check these regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway is a great option for families looking for an accessible outdoor activity. The mostly paved and gravel surface makes it easy for strollers and young children to navigate. The 19km loop can be broken down into shorter segments, allowing for a manageable walk or bike ride suitable for various energy levels. Reddit

While the trail offers beautiful river views, parents should be mindful of sun exposure, especially during warmer months. Bringing plenty of water, hats, and sunscreen is essential. It's also advisable to stay aware of surroundings, particularly in areas closer to urban parks, as mentioned by some users. Overall, it's a pleasant and safe environment for families to enjoy a day outdoors.

🚴 Cyclists

For cyclists, the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway presents an excellent opportunity for a scenic ride. The predominantly paved and gravel terrain is ideal for road bikes, hybrids, and even some gravel bikes. The 19km loop offers a substantial distance for a good workout, allowing cyclists to cover a significant stretch along the Grand River. Reddit

Be aware that a good portion of the trail is exposed to direct sunlight, so planning your ride during cooler parts of the day or bringing adequate hydration is recommended. The trail can get busy, especially on weekends, so cyclists should be mindful of pedestrians and other users. The consistent surface and clear path make it a reliable choice for a dedicated cycling session.

🚶‍♀️ Leisure Walkers

Leisure walkers will find the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway to be a very enjoyable and calming experience. The trail's well-maintained, mostly paved and gravel surface makes for comfortable walking, regardless of fitness level. The 19km loop provides ample opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the Grand River. Reddit

Visitors often praise the cleanliness of the pathway, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. While some sections are exposed to the sun, choosing cooler times of the day or visiting in milder seasons can enhance the comfort of your walk. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed outing, offering scenic views and a sense of tranquility.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the 19km Loop

The Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway offers a substantial 19km loop, primarily composed of paved and gravel surfaces. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a moderate to long-distance walk or a dedicated cycling route. The trail winds along the Grand River, providing consistent scenic views throughout the journey. Be prepared for a good amount of sun exposure, as large sections of the loop are not shaded, making hydration and sun protection essential, especially during warmer months. Reddit

While the trail is generally well-maintained and clean, it's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned encountering individuals experiencing homelessness or drug use in certain areas, particularly near Ford View Park. This is a common concern in urban trail systems, and it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to the main path. Despite this, the overall experience is often described as calming and enjoyable, with many appreciating the cleanliness of the trail. Reddit

For those planning to complete the full loop, consider breaking it down into sections or planning for a longer outing. The accessibility of the paved and gravel paths ensures a smooth ride for cyclists and a comfortable walk for most. Checking the official Brantford city trail maps can help you identify various access points and potential resting spots along the way.

Best Times for a Peaceful Visit

To maximize your enjoyment and minimize crowds on the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway, timing is key. While the trail is a popular spot, visiting during off-peak hours can lead to a more serene experience. Weekday mornings are often cited as ideal, offering a peaceful atmosphere with fewer people. This allows for a more immersive connection with nature and the calming river views. Reddit

Late afternoons can also be a good option, especially during the 'golden hour' when the sunlight casts a warm glow over the landscape, making it perfect for photography and a leisurely stroll. Some visitors have also noted that the trail might be even more pleasant during cooler months, suggesting that the experience can be enhanced by avoiding the peak heat of summer. Reddit

Evenings, particularly on weekdays, can offer a quieter experience as well. While the pathway is generally accessible during daylight hours, checking local park hours for specific access points is always a good practice. By planning your visit strategically, you can enjoy the beauty of the Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway with greater tranquility.

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