A Backpacker’s Hamilton Weekend: Scooters, Waterfalls, and Small-Town Stories

Long weekends are made for getting away. Some people told me that Hamilton is a nice city; others raised an eyebrow and asked, “What’s there to do in Hamilton?”

This contradiction sparked my curiosity. Could a city once known as Canada’s “Steel Capital” really be worth exploring? With questions in mind and a backpack on my shoulders, I set off for a trip that turned out to be full of unexpected encounters, quiet moments, and stories only Hamilton could tell.

Industrial Memories of Hamilton

Hamilton was once known as Canada’s “Steel Capital.” Riding an Uber from East Hamilton back to the downtown core, my driver pointed at the distant factory chimneys: “See those? They used to pour out black smoke all day long.”

Through the car window, I looked down from the overpass at rows of massive industrial buildings. Even in silence, they seemed to echo with the roar of machines and the city’s former prosperity.

Later, when we reached the waterfront, the driver gestured toward the tall masts along the harbor: “Beautiful now, isn’t it? But you know, this place used to be full of homeless people.”

In Hamilton, the past and present are tightly intertwined, leaving you both impressed and contemplative.

Local Voices: How Residents See Hamilton

At the hostel, I met a woman who used to live in Hamilton. Out of curiosity, I asked her, “Is Hamilton a livable city?”

Her expression darkened instantly. She replied, “Go search on Facebook. Look at the news.”

It wasn’t a direct answer, but her tone carried layers of unspoken feelings. In that moment, I realized that no city ever has a single face—Hamilton included.

Sunset Rides and Scooter Adventures

What truly touched me was riding through Hamilton at sunset. I had long wanted to try an electric scooter, and to my surprise, Hamilton had a public rental system.

As the golden light spilled across the city, I set off from the lakeshore, gliding along the water’s edge until I reached an open space with nothing to block the view. The sun was sinking right before my eyes. With the wind brushing against my face, I felt as if I was moving in rhythm with the city itself.

Cycling—or in this case, scootering—was more than just a way to get around. It became a way to connect with Hamilton: the old houses lining the streets, the flickering light on the lake, the relaxed footsteps of passersby—all of it came together to form my personal portrait of this city.

Hiking Adventures and Weekend Market

After parking the scooter, it was time to explore on foot. With my backpack in tow, I walked past waterfalls, along winding mountain trails, and through the streets of small towns. I was almost fully immersed in the world of weighted hiking, where sweat and scenery intertwined, and fatigue came hand in hand with reward.

Thanks to the enthusiastic guidance of my hostel roommate, I arrived at Hamilton’s weekend market right as it opened on Saturday. While enjoying a Mexican taco breakfast, I soaked in the lively atmosphere—the shouts of vendors, the haggling, the push and pull of market life—all of it giving a vivid sense of the city’s unique rhythm.

At the center of the market stands a prominent old clock tower—“Meet me at the clock.” It’s more than just a landmark; it’s a traditional meeting point for locals. Many Hamiltonians have shopped here since childhood, and the clock tower holds their memories, connections, and a sense of community.

My Hamilton

This journey was more than just exploring a city—it was a conversation with myself. Gentle sunsets, bustling markets, serene nature, and moments of both perseverance and ease all intertwined here.

Hamilton shared its stories, and I wrote my own chapter along the way.

Little Travel Surprises

Every trip comes with unexpected delights:

• A funny moment at a Vietnamese pho shop: Seeing my Asian face, the staff handed me a cup of hot water, while the white customers all received ice water. When the food arrived, he even asked seriously, “Do you know how to use chopsticks?” I almost burst out laughing.
• A warm surprise at the hostel: The listing said “no breakfast provided,” but the fridge was stocked with plenty of ingredients. That night, I cooked two big bowls of pasta, and it tasted surprisingly good—one of the coziest little joys of the trip.

Conclusion

Perhaps Hamilton isn’t a city everyone would recommend as a travel destination. Yet on a Saturday morning, I wandered into the market, listening to vendors calling out and the hum of the crowd; by the lakeside, I opened a book as gentle waves lapped at the shore; on the streets, I met interesting people and experienced unforgettable sunset rides.

Trips never have to be perfect—they are more like mirrors, reflecting who we are in that moment. And what Hamilton gave me was a quiet, unexpected sense of peace and contentment.