Perched at the top of Hamilton’s Niagara Escarpment, Sam Lawrence Park is one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints. It’s about 18.6 acres in size and is famous for its panoramic views of downtown Hamilton, the harbour, the Dundas Valley, and even Lake Ontario on a clear day.
This park is where you can see the city from above, take photos, walk along peaceful paths, and enjoy the fresh air.
Getting There
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By Car: Drive up the Jolley Cut from downtown Hamilton. At the top, turn onto Concession Street or Upper Wellington Street—the park entrance is right where these roads meet. There is a small parking lot inside the park.
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By Transit: Several Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) bus routes stop along Concession Street near the park entrance. It’s just a short walk from the bus stop to the park.
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On Foot / By Bike: You can hike or cycle up escarpment trails or roads like the Jolley Cut, but note that it’s a steep climb. The Arkledun Avenue walkway also connects the lower city to the park and links with the Bruce Trail.
Address: Concession Street & Upper Wellington Street, Hamilton, Ontario.
You can check the Translink Website for the current Skytrain schedules.
Stop 1: The Main Lookout
Walk straight from the parking area to the escarpment edge.
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Here you’ll find the best views over Hamilton’s Lower City.
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Look west to see the Dundas Valley, and north to catch Lake Ontario.
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At sunset, this spot is breathtaking.
Tip: This is the number-one place to snap wide-angle photos of Hamilton.
Stop 2: Rock Garden & Benches
Stroll along the pathways and you’ll pass through rock garden areas and old ornamental benches.
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These gardens give the park its charm.
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The benches are great rest spots if you want to linger.
Stop 3: Arkledun Avenue Walkway
The Arkledun Avenue walkway reopened in December 2024 after upgrades.
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It connects the upper escarpment with trails below.
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It’s a pleasant walk if you want to stretch your legs a little more.
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From here, you can also find a connection to the Bruce Trail.
Tip: Wear comfy shoes—parts of this walkway are sloped.
Stop 4: Quiet Corners
Head toward the west side of the park.
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You’ll find quieter areas, trees, and shaded paths.
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This side is less crowded, perfect if you want a peaceful break.
Stop 5: Photo Hotspots
Aside from the main lookout, there are several smaller viewpoints.
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Look for breaks in the trees where you can frame the city skyline.
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Photographers often capture Hamilton Harbour with sailboats in summer.
What Tourists Need to Know
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Getting There: The park sits at the top of the Jolley Cut, where it meets Concession Street and Upper Wellington. It’s about a 5–10 minute drive from downtown Hamilton.
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Parking: On-site lot is available, but it can be busy on weekends.
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Transit: Buses run along Concession Street.
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Footwear: Some paths have stairs or slopes—wear comfortable shoes.
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Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunsets, or clear days for long-distance views.
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Facilities: Benches, pathways, gardens, trees. Washrooms are not always open—plan ahead.
Getting Back
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If you drove, head back down the Jolley Cut for quick access to downtown Hamilton.
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If you came by bus, Concession Street stops are just a short walk away.
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For hikers, you can continue onto the Bruce Trail and explore beyond the park.
Final Note
Sam Lawrence Park is one of Hamilton’s crown jewels. It’s not about playgrounds or sports fields—it’s about views, fresh air, and peaceful walks. Whether you’re a photographer, a hiker, or simply a visitor wanting to see Hamilton from above, this park is the perfect stop.