 St. Thomas is fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful conservation areas, along with a variety of parks, walking trails, hiking paths, and cycling routes. Consider this your go-to guide for discovering where to get outside and explore next! Dalewood Reservoir Trail
Dalewood Conservation Area is a beautiful destination for anyone looking to spend time outdoors. Visitors can enjoy camping, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and cycling, all in one place. The area includes on-site washrooms and picnic tables—perfect for a relaxing lunch or a quick break. One of its highlights is the Dalewood Reservoir Trail, a 6.0 km unpaved loop that takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. This trail winds around the reservoir and features charming old railway-style bridges, offering a peaceful escape into nature. It leads you through wooded areas alongside the water and is dog-friendly—just be sure to keep pets on a leash. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and bring the right gear for your hike. Check out the section later in the blog for a go-to list of what to wear and pack for your trip!
WhistleStop Trail
The Whistlestop Trail is a fully paved 15km recreational path, perfect for your next cycling or walking adventure. It begins just outside the Railway City Tourism building and stretches all the way to Port Stanley Beach. If you’d prefer to stay within St. Thomas and avoid the main Elgin County roads, you can easily connect to the Angus McKenzie Trail instead. This scenic route wraps around Lake Margaret, just behind Pinafore Park. As you travel along the Whistlestop Trail through St. Thomas, you’ll pass vibrant murals and follow the path alongside historic railroad tracks which adds a unique charm to your journey!
Angus McKenzie trail
The Angus McKenzie Trail is a fully paved path, perfect for both walking and cycling. It loops around the beautiful Lake Margaret and is located at the back of Pinafore Park. Along the way, you might spot all kinds of wildlife—from turtles and ducks to geese and more. The trail is approximately 2.6 km long and takes about 30 minutes to complete! It’s a dog-friendly area, but pets must be kept on a leash. The trail is also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a great option for all ages and abilities.
Waterworks park
Waterworks Park features multiple trails and scenic spaces to explore! One of the park’s highlights is a fully paved recreational loop that winds through the landscape, crossing over bridges and ponds. Along the way, you’re likely to spot a variety of wildlife including turtles, fish, ducks, geese, hawks, and more, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The City’s Parks Department does a fantastic job maintaining the gardens and flowerbeds, adding to the park’s beauty and making it a lovely place for a walk, a picnic, or a visit to the playground with your kids. The park is also equipped with washroom facilities. The main trail is about 2.3 km long and takes roughly 30 minutes to complete. For those who enjoy fishing, head to the top of the hill on the east side of the park where you’ll find a peaceful fishing spot overlooking the reservoir—an ideal place to relax!! St. Thomas heritage tours!St. Thomas is home to several unique heritage walking tours, each offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and stunning architecture! Courthouse Heritage Walking tour
One standout is the Courthouse Area Heritage Homes Walking Tour, where you can admire historic estates and homes once owned by prominent local families. This route winds through a neighbourhood filled with striking Gothic architecture and shares stories about the original residents. The preservation of these homes is remarkable, showcasing how the community has maintained the character and integrity of the area over time. Old St. Thomas Church Walking Tour
Another fascinating option is the Church Area Heritage Homes Walking Route! This tour highlights early St. Thomas history, guiding you past historic residences, the Elgin Military Museum, and the Old St. Thomas Church, which dates back to 1824. It also explores the lives of the families who lived in this area, with roots reaching as far back as 1834. Talbot Street Heritage Walking tour
The third walking tour is the Talbot Street Heritage Walking Tour, which guides you through St. Thomas’ historic downtown! This tour highlights the city’s heritage buildings, including former engineering and municipal structures that played key roles in how the town once operated. It’s a fascinating walk through local history—and a perfect activity to enjoy while exploring shops and businesses in the downtown core. What to bring for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities!
Tick Awareness: Stay Safe Outdoors!! When spending time outdoors, especially on trails or in wooded areas, it’s important to take precautions against ticks. Always use a tick-repellent spray on yourself and your pets before heading out. After your adventure, thoroughly check your body and your pets for ticks. Be sure to carefully inspect these key areas where ticks often hide:
Ticks can carry serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and can embed themselves in the skin, so early detection and removal are crucial! If you find a tick attached, carefully remove it with tweezers by grasping it close to the skin and pulling straight out. After removal, it’s important to take the tick to your local public health unit or healthcare provider to have it tested for Lyme disease. If you experience symptoms like rash or fever after a tick bite, seek medical advice promptly. Staying vigilant helps keep you and your loved ones safe while enjoying nature.
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© 2025 Railway City Tourism
© 2025 Railway City Tourism