On January 28, 2026, the Town of Lincoln, Ontario, ended a Significant Weather Event and related winter restrictions that had limited access to local trails and parts of the Niagara Escarpment since late January. The Town announced the end of the Keep It Clear and Significant Weather Event measures in a public service announcement effective 9 a.m. on January 28.
The declaration was lifted after a stretch of dangerous cold during which Environment Canada and local agencies reported wind chills as low as −30°C. During that period, officials discouraged use of the trail network because of the increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
The reopening restores access to lands managed by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), including Rockway and Cave Springs conservation areas. Hunters targeting small game (for example, rabbits and squirrels) may resume activity subject to NPCA permit rules and provincial regulations; many small-game and furbearing mammal seasons in Ontario run through February 28, 2026, under the Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary.
Although the alert has been lifted, Niagara Region Public Health and local officials continue to advise caution: cover exposed skin, dress warmly, and limit time outdoors in cold conditions. Town staff and NPCA advisories also warn that many trails, parking areas and escarpment slopes remain icy or unmaintained, and hikers and hunters should exercise care on the rocky terrain.
