Although the Canada Day celebrations may be over, a trip to see what is widely believed to be the country’s oldest and finest sugar maple tree offers a stunning reminder of the natural beauty that thrives right here in Ontario.
Tucked away in the charming town of Pelham, a captivating community in the heart of Niagara’s countryside, adventurers will find Comfort Maple Conservation Area at 636 Metler Rd.
A sign at Comfort Maple Conservation Area.
Irelyne Lavery/Metroland Photo
Towering 24.4 metres at its crown, the Comfort Maple has a trunk circumference of six metres.
History of Ontario’s Comfort Maple
In 1816, the 0.2-hectare area of land where the conservation area lies was purchased by the Comfort family and was later entrusted to Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to conserve the old-growth tree for its “historical and biological significance.”
In 1975, the Ontario Forestry Association estimated the tree to be between 400 and 500 years old.
Now, the tree “symbolizes Canada’s strength and tradition,” according to the conservation authority. Plus, it was designated as a heritage tree under the Ontario Heritage Act in 2000.
The Comfort Maple was estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old in 1975.
Irelyne Lavery/Metroland Photo
Originally, the tree was grounded in an area of hardwood forest. However, the tree’s shape and size suggest that the forest was cleared while it was still young, the conservation authority states.
More to do in Niagara
For more nature in Niagara, head to Short Hills Provincial Park on Pelham Road.
Covering 660 hectares of land, the park is the largest in the region and has seven trails including the Paleozoic Trail, with stunning views of Swayze Falls.
“Sedimentary deposits and glacial till once filled this valley, until Twelve Mile Creek sliced through, forming the ‘Short Hills,’” according to the park.
And be sure to keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, coyote and meadow vole.
Nature aside, the Niagara region is home to 12 local municipalities and is recognized for its wine region, along with its up-and-coming food scene.
To get a taste of the local grapes, head to Reif Estate Winery (15608 Niagara Pkwy.) or Two Sisters Vineyards (240 John St. E.).
If you’re in the mood for an award-winning meal, make a visit to the small village of Jordan Station to enjoy Canada’s best restaurant, Restaurant Pearl Morissette.
Or head to St. Catharines to eat at Fat Rabbit, nestled at 34 Geneva St. This spot has redefined the city’s dining landscape and runs as a whole animal butchery with menus that follow what the local farms and seasons provide.
And only a few years in, Fat Rabbit is already Michelin-recommended and listed in the top 50 of the 2026 Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list.
If you’ll be staying awhile in the area, Hyatt Regency Niagara Falls Fallsview is newly opened and features waterfall-facing suites. Plus, STK Restaurant is located in the building if you get hungry. The hotel is at 6700 Fallsview Blvd.
Also in Niagara Falls, 2026 marks the 90th anniversary of Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture, along with the 30th anniversary of the butterfly conservatory. Both are at 2565 Niagara Pkwy.