The Niagara Benchlands embody the genuine pride and passion of the Lincoln community, fostering exceptional experiences for visitors. This shared enthusiasm defines the region's identity, infusing every aspect of life with vitality and authenticity, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture and hospitality.
Three Points of Interest That Encapsulate The Essence of This Remarkable Destination:
- Neutral Confederacy Rock Carvings at Cave Spring Conservation Area: Nestled within the breathtaking Cave Spring Conservation Area lies an extraordinary piece of history – the Neutral Confederacy rock carvings. These ancient carvings offer a glimpse into the rich indigenous heritage of the Benchlands, serving as a testament to the deep cultural roots embedded in our landscape. The site also proudly marks the starting point of the iconic Bruce Trail, adding an adventurous touch to the historical significance.
- Niagara Escarpment and Benchland Formations: The Niagara Escarpment in south-central Ontario is a designated UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and represents the largest continuous swath of naturally forested lands. Within Niagara, the Benchlands are graced with awe-inspiring beauty, magnificent vistas and views across Lake Ontario to the Toronto skyline. The Niagara Escarpment is a geological wonder that provides a stunning backdrop to the region, and remains in place following the last glaciation over 13,000 years ago – creating the unique topographic feature the forms the Benchlands. The escarpment formation, and the bed of ancient Lake Iroquois provide fertile soils that have become the bedrock of our world-class wine industry. As you traverse our landscape, you’ll observe the vineyards that thrive in this unique terroir, producing wines that reflect the essence of the Benchlands.
- Natural Wonder and Cultural Significance of Cave Springs Conservation Area: Nestled within the breathtaking Niagara Escarpment, Cave Springs Conservation Area is a place rich in natural and cultural history. Representing one of the best sites to observe talus slope formations along the Niagara Escarpment, Cave Springs is also home to local legend and lore. As the source of a magnesium spring, this site was important to Indigenous communities, and after settlement, to agrarian efforts and placemaking by farmers. Later, the spring would be known as the “fountain of youth” among the local community. In 1962, the first blaze, or segment, of the iconic Bruce Trail, was formed, following ancient pathways along the Niagara Escarpment, adding an adventurous touch to the historical significance of Cave Springs and the Benchlands.
