Discover the strange optical illusion at Burlington Magnetic Hill—a quirky, must-see roadside attraction for locals and visitors alike.
If you’re the kind of person who loves weird roadside stops, Burlington’s Magnetic Hill is about to blow your mind—or at least make you question the laws of gravity for a hot second.
Tucked away on King Road near North Service Road, this quirky little stretch of road has been baffling drivers (and delighting TikTokers) for years. Here’s the deal: you stop your car at the bottom of a hill, put it in neutral, take your foot off the brake... and it appears to roll uphill. Cue the Twilight Zone music.
Locals have known about Burlington Magnetic Hill for decades, but it’s still one of those under-the-radar spots most people stumble upon thanks to word of mouth, a curious Google search, or sheer accident. In reality, it's not some mystical gravitational vortex—it’s a classic optical illusion caused by the layout of the surrounding landscape. The horizon line and slope of the land play tricks on your eyes, making a slight downhill appear to be uphill. Science, baby!
Where to Find It
Head to King Road, just south of the 403. The best spot is between North Service Road and the escarpment. Look for the area where the road bends near the wooded section—it’s quiet enough there to try the illusion safely. Just make sure to check for traffic before stopping.
When to Go
Early morning or during the weekday is your best bet to avoid traffic. Since it's a short, residential area, be respectful of local drivers and don't linger too long. A quick stop-and-roll is all you need to feel the magic.
Other Things to Do Nearby
Once you've had your fun defying physics, why not make a day of it? Burlington has a ton of great attractions nearby:
Royal Botanical Gardens – One of the largest botanical gardens in Canada, just minutes away.
Lasalle Park – Gorgeous waterfront views and walking trails on the Burlington Bay.
Downtown Burlington – Grab coffee, stroll the pier, or hit the shops along Brant Street.
Insider Tip:
Bring a friend and film the illusion from outside the car—it’s even more surreal to watch it happen than to experience it from behind the wheel. And yes, it's totally Instagram-worthy.
Burlington Magnetic Hill is one of those random gems that makes living in or visiting Burlington extra fun. It won’t take you more than five minutes, but it’ll stick in your brain for years. Whether you're a science nerd, a TikTok adventurer, or just someone who appreciates the odd things in life, this spot is a must-try.
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Disclaimer
Please note that the information in this blog is for general guidance only and may not always be up to date or accurate. We recommend double-checking details directly with local cities, businesses, or official sources before making any plans or acting on the information. We are not a news or journalistic outlet, and while we do our best to make sure information is accurate, sometimes we make mistakes. It is always best to verify with official sources.
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