About Belfountain

Come and enjoy the 15th Annual Salamander Festival on October 2nd at Belfountain Conservation Area

Gateway to the Forks of the Credit

Location:
10 Credit Street, Belfountain (Caledon), L7K 0E5
(519) 927-5838

Road Closure Notice:

Forks of the Credit Road (from McLaren to Mississauga Road) will be closed from August 10, 2010 to December 3, 2010.

Attraction Notice:

The waterfall at Belfountain Conservation Area will not be available from August 27, 2010 to September 16, 2010. The upper pond must be lowered to provide for work on the dam during this time frame, resulting in no water falling over the dam. Please plan your visit accordingly, as the Conservation Area hours of operation remain as posted.

Places of Interest

There is plenty to see and do at Belfountain. A nature trail spans the river gorge using a suspension bridge and then winds along the steep sides of the Escarpment requiring steady feet and approximately 30 minutes to walk. A short distance downstream is the juncture of the West and main Credit Rivers, the scenic "Forks of the Credit" area. These can be reached by a rugged hike down into the valley along the Trimble Trail that will take you out of the Conservation Area. The Trimble Trail is not a loop and you will have to retrace your steps to return to the Conservation Area (see map).

Natural Heritage

The cold, spring-fed waters of the West Credit River provide ideal habitat and ample angling opportunities for brook and brown trout and other fish. Freshwater springs flow from the steep valley walls that enclose this tranquil oasis. Heavily treed woodlands of cedar, oak, maple and birch are alive with wildlife – songbirds, rabbits, flying squirrels, ruffed grouse and white-tailed deer. Walkways, a beautiful fountain, gardens, historic stonework including a cave and a grinding stone from a gristmill that once stood beside the river add interest to this beautiful site.

Photography and Filming

Over the years, Belfountain has become a Mecca for photographers and others who enjoy the spectacular colours of the Niagara Escarpment in autumn. Belfountain's beauty is often used to photograph weddings, or as a backdrop for television or magazine features.

While CVC appreciates and benefits greatly from the strong partnerships shared with our tourism and marketing sector, it is in contravention of the Conservation Authorities Act to operate any private business activities on CVC owned lands or make a profit from the use of these public areas without expressed permission provided by CVC. Photography for personal use is encouraged and permitted but any private commercial photography needs to be approved and permitted by CVC.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter, please contact Sandy Camplin, Conservation Areas Programming Assistant, Credit Valley Conservation, 1 800 367 0890, scamplin@creditvalleyca.ca.

History

Close to the picturesque village of Belfountain, this 8 ha site once belonged to Charles Mack, inventor of the cushion-back rubber stamp.

Mack and his wife Addie purchased the property in 1908, where he developed his version of a miniature Niagara Falls and Yellowstone Cave. Mr. Mack had a suspension bridge built downstream from the dam and created a fountain topped with a bell honouring the town. He also added stonewalls, footpaths, scenic lookouts and a guesthouse. The couple lived in a small house deep in the park.

Visitor Opportunities

• wedding photos
• special events
• nature trails
• sightseeing/bird watching
• hiking
• fishing
• photography
• educational programs
• picnicking:
  • for families
  • for groups reservations (recommended) -
    call 519- 941-6329 and 1-800-367-0890
• bbq rentals

Become an Our Credit Member

“Our Credit” annual memberships are valid in 10 Conservation Areas, including Terra Cotta Conservation Area, for one year from the date of purchase. Save on admission and help protect your local conservation area by purchasing a family, personal or senior membership today from area staff or online. Each membership comes with rental savings coupons and a free gift. Buy an Our Credit Membership onlineor call 1-800-367-0890.