15+ Best Waterfalls in Hamilton: Tips for Hiking, Parking & More!

Calling all waterfall chasers – this Ontario city is guaranteed to be one of our favourite destinations! Hamilton may have had a reputation as ‘steeltown’ due to its industrial roots but it’s quickly being transformed… and for good reason. More recently, Hamilton has become the city of waterfalls and with over 150 waterfalls within the city limits, it can be overwhelming where to begin! This list of the best waterfalls in Hamilton should help point you in the right direction for some outdoor fun.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you!

Best Waterfalls in Hamilton Ontario

As I mentioned, the Hamilton area is home to an incredible number of waterfalls. The majority of them are located within a 23 kilometre radius of downtown Hamilton. However, the “city of waterfalls” nickname didn’t really catch on until local businessman Chris Eckland used it to market the city and drive tourism to these natural wonders.

Whether you are local to the area or visiting from afar, it’s important to recognize that these lands have been the traditional territory of the Mississauga and Haudenosaunee since time immemorial. While their presence isn’t as strong as it once was due to European Colonization, it’s important now more than ever to take a moment to better understand the history of these lands we have the privilege of exploring. Click here for more information on how Hamilton is working to promote a better understanding among all Hamilton residents about Indigenous cultures, experiences and histories.

SOMETHING TO NOTE: In this article, I suggest ideas of where to find free parking. These are based on my experiences, though regulations can change at any time. Please be sure to check for signage to ensure you don’t receive a parking ticket and if you notice things have changed, drop a comment below and I’ll update the article to reflect this!

You have to admit though, it makes sense for it to be known as the city of waterfalls when so many are within the city limits! It’s quite possible that it’s even the waterfall capital of the world. Let’s dive into these Hamilton waterfall trails and get our nature on! The 10 best waterfalls in Hamilton which I’ll be sharing in this post are Albion Falls, Borer’s Falls, Canterbury Falls, Devil’s Punchbowl, Felkers Falls, Sherman Falls, Smokey Hollow Falls, Tew’s Falls, Tiffany Falls and Webster’s Falls.

However, there are a few more gems that should be on your radar as well so keep reading for all the details on visiting the best waterfalls in Hamilton!

Lindsay with Sherman Falls in Late Autumn

Sherman Falls: The Best Waterfall in Hamilton

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Heritage Trail

I’m starting off with a bang because, in my personal opinion, this is the cream of the crop for waterfalls in Hamilton. Sherman Falls, a gorgeous 17 metre tall terraced ribbon waterfall, is fed by Ancaster Creek. Tumbling over her 8 metre crest, she flows all year round to always give us quite the show! If you’re in the Dundas area, I highly recommend popping by Sherman Falls.

Sherman Falls has gone by a number of names including Smith’s Falls, Whitton Falls, Fairy Falls and Angel Falls. While Samuel Smith and Francis Whitton owned the land at one point, it was Whitton who landscaped the property and built up the area. This was later sold to the Sherman Family – the same Shermans that established one of Canada’s largest steel producing companies known now as Dofasco Inc. It was because of this and their influence within the community that the falls came to be known as Sherman Falls.

SOMETHING TO NOTE: It’s important to know that Sherman Falls is located on private property. The owners allow visitors like ourselves to revel in her beauty by utilizing the trails. This privilege can be revoked at any time, so it’s important to respect the area and be thankful to the land owners for giving us access.

Sherman Falls in the Winter Months

How to Visit Sherman Falls

Located just off of the Bruce Trail and in close proximity to the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, there are a number of ways to access Sherman Falls. The easiest way is to park at one of the designated conservation lots such as the one at Artaban Road at a rate of $11 a day.

As Sherman Falls is in close proximity to Canterbury Falls, you can easily do both in one afternoon hike. This means the Lions Club Road parking lot is also an option.

I haven’t done this myself, but have heard you can park uphill from the falls on Montgomery Road for free. This can change at any time though so be sure to check before committing to your parking spot.

Borer’s Falls in Summer From the Lookout

Borer’s Falls: A Lesser Known Gem

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Escarpment Trail, Rock Chapel Trail, Ray Lowes Side Trail

On the outskirts of the city, you’ll find the often-overlooked beauty: Borer’s Falls. A little smaller than some of her counterparts, it’s the perfect spot for a hike without the hordes of people you can find at Tiffany Falls or Websters Falls. For this reason, it makes her, in my opinion, one of the best waterfalls in Hamilton.

Borer’s Falls is a 15 metre high curtain style waterfall that once powered the Rock Chapel Village Sawmill. Owned by the Borer family for over 100 years, they had to switch to steam power when the land was cleared for development. This damaged the natural flow of the creek and it could no longer power the mill. Now you can enjoy the hiking trails and admire her beauty for the perfect nature escape.

If it’s been a dry summer with little precipitation, the flow at Borer’s Falls can be quite weak. Visiting in the winter however would be the best time in my opinion. Even if the Borer’s Tributary Creek that feeds it is down to a trickle, you’ll be rewarded with some brilliant ice formations. You can best admire her at the lookout along the Bruce trail to the left of the waterfall when coming from Rock Chapel Road. Parts of the trail follow along the road so be aware of your surroundings and watch for oncoming traffic!

Borer’s Falls in the Winter

How to Visit Borer’s Falls

The closest parking lot to Borer’s Falls is at the Rock Chapel Nature Sanctuary which can be found at 318 Rock Chapel Road. If you’re a Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) member, you can park here for free. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay a fee. It’s closed in the winter, however cars park along the side of the road close by.

RELATED: For more details on hiking to this stunning Hamilton waterfall, check out my full guide to hiking Borer’s Falls!

For free parking, I parked down at the Borer’s Falls Dog Park. You can then take the side Ray Lowes Side Trail up through the Borer’s Falls Conservation Area.

Albion Falls in the Summer

Albion Falls: The Infamous Hamilton Waterfall

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Red Hill Trail, Escarpment Rail Trail

Admire as the flow from the Red Hill Creek in Hamilton’s King’s Forest descends over the crest of Albion Falls. At 19 metres tall and 18 metres wide, this cascade waterfall is almost as wide as it is tall! You will be mesmerized as the water fans across the bedrock and shale from either of the two viewing platforms.

FUN FACT: If you pay a visit to the city’s Royal Botanical Gardens, you’ll find a number of rocks from around Albion Falls used in the Rock Garden which is now a National Historic Site!

Albion Falls is one of the most popular falls in the Hamilton area, however she has a darker side. It is said that Albion Falls is haunted by a young woman named Jane. In September of 1915, she took her life by hurling to her death over the side of Albion Falls when the object of her affections cast her aside. Local legend has it that on nights when the moon is out, you may catch a glimpse of her glowing figure or even hear her sobs of sorrow. If you’re a self-proclaimed ghost hunter, you can read more in my haunted guide to Hamilton.

This isn’t the only life Albion Falls has claimed and is the reason you can now only admire her from afar. Unfortunately, too many ill-prepared hikers flocked to this Hamilton waterfall and tragically a man lost his life falling from the crest. This, combined with instances such as this where users ignore clear signage has led the City of Hamilton to erect fencing around this beauty. Anyone now caught jumping it is subject to trespassing fines.

Albion Falls from Below When The Base was Accessible

How to Visit Albion Falls

The best views of Albion Falls can be found at the parking lot located just across the gorge from her at 750 Mountain Brow Boulevard. This makes Albion Falls the most easily accessible of the Hamilton waterfalls and fantastic for the elderly and families with small children.

However, if you’re looking for a bit more bang for your buck, you can see two waterfalls if you’re willing to hike a little! Start at Oak Knoll Park located at 701 Mountain Brow Boulevard and follow the Bruce Trail along the road south (aka head left out of the parking lot) towards Albion Falls.

In just a few minutes, you’ll see Buttermilk Falls! This 23 metre high ribbon waterfall is fed by the Grindstone Tributary Creek alongside the road. You can think of her as the teaser as you ramp up to the main event, Albion Falls. She is best seen in the spring or winter though as Buttermilk Falls has a very low flow and often runs dry during the warmer months.

Tiffany Falls in Late Autumn

Tiffany Falls: Hamilton Waterfalls Fan Favourite

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Tiffany Falls Side Trail

If I had to pick one of Hamilton’s waterfalls as the most popular, I’d have to say it’s Tiffany Falls. This gorgeous 22 metre high ribbon waterfall is fed by the Spencer Creek tributary with her flow eventually merging with Cootes Paradise.

How did Tiffany Falls get her name? That’s thanks to Dr Oliver Tiffany, the first known physician in the Ancaster area. While he first settled in Grimsby in the late 1700s, he later moved to Ancaster. He served this large rural area for more than 40 years before passing in 1835.

While this Hamilton waterfall does flow year round, Tiffany Falls has a relatively small watershed so the force of the flow can vary. She became extremely popular during the cold snap in January 2018 as she was almost entirely frozen over. The ice formations were absolutely breathtaking and had people swarming to see them – just look at the photo below!

Tiffany Falls Conservation Area is one of several environmentally significant areas within the Dundas Valley. Due to its location and natural features, rare bird species like the Louisiana Waterthrush (a threatened species in Canada) thrive here.

If you’re looking for Ancaster waterfalls, Tiffany Falls is not to be missed though she’s not the only one in the area! Washboard Falls is a 5 metre tall classical cascade waterfall that is located above Tiffany. I have no idea how to access it (possibly by ice climbing?) but it’s there for those who know the secret route!

Tiffany Falls Frozen Over in the Winter Months

How to Visit Tiffany Falls

The closest parking lot is off of Wilson Road where you’ll find a rate of $11 for a limit of two hours. Then it’s just a short 10 minute walk along the Tiffany Falls Side Trail to the lookout! However, the parking lot here is very limited with a maximum of 10-15 spots.

With access to the main Bruce Trail on the opposite side of Wilson Road, it’s easy to make this hike longer. Canterbury Falls and Sherman Falls are close by, making it the perfect afternoon adventure. This way you can take advantage of the parking lots close to either of these Hamilton waterfalls.

Canterbury Falls in the Summer

Canterbury Falls: The Heart of the Dundas Valley

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Canterbury Falls Side Trail

While she may be one of the smallest of the waterfalls listed here, Canterbury Falls is still full of charm. This 9 metre tall terraced ribbon cascade trickles down the Niagara Escarpment. You’ll find her nestled in the heart of the Dundas Valley Conservation Area. Heavily shaded, it’s the perfect summer hike as the area stays cool thanks to the tall trees surrounding her. She’s even more magnificent in the autumn season while adorned with red and orange foliage!

The land where you’ll find Canterbury Falls was once owned by the Milne family in the early 1800s. While it changed hands a few times, the property was purchased by the Lions Club of Hamilton in 1935 for the purpose of creating a summer camp for disabled children. 25 years later, it is now owned by the Anglican Diocese of Niagara so that people could “…develop respect for individual worth.”

The trail itself is fairly flat and easy to navigate, especially since the bridge was added by the Iroquoia Section of the Bruce Trail in 2008. However, Canterbury Falls is one of the lower flow falls and can be barely a trickle if it has been a dry summer. She is best seen in late March/early April with the spring run-off or in the winter as she freezes over.

When the flow is heavier, it’s possible to see Little Canterbury Falls. You’ll find her about 60 metres along the Bruce Trail, just past the interpretive signage.

Canterbury Falls Late in the Fall Season

How to Visit Canterbury Falls

Canterbury Falls can only be accessed via the Bruce Trail with the Canterbury Falls Side Trail. This 2.8 kilometre loop will take you around a beautiful trail and right to Canterbury Falls herself.

Unfortunately, there is no free parking and only paid parking lots nearby. The closest one is at the end of Lions Club Road within the Dundas Valley Conservation Area for a $10 flat rate. There is space to park just before the paid gates, however you run the risk of being ticketed or towed.

Devils Punchbowl in the Winter at Sunset

Devil’s Punchbowl: The Jewel of Stoney Creek

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Devil’s Punch Bowl Side Trail, Dofasco 2000 Trail

The Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area is one of the Niagara Escarpment’s highlights as it was formed at the end of the last ice age. Melt-water poured over the edge of the escarpment, carving out the punchbowl itself as well as the gorge.

You may not realize this, but the Devil’s Punchbowl actually offers two waterfalls – the Upper Punch Bowl Falls and the Lower Punch Bowl Falls. Chances are you’re here for the Upper Punch Bowl Falls as this ribbon waterfall plunges almost 34 metres into a pool at the base of the Niagara Escarpment. Both are located inside the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area in Stoney Creek.

To see the Devil’s Punch Bowl in her true form, it’s best to visit after the spring thaw or shortly after a heavy rain. She has been known to dry up during hot summers with little rainfall. Or you can opt for a winter adventure and her ice formations will always be a sight to see!

While the views are pretty fantastic, another huge highlight is the incredible rock display beneath it. It’s one of the best examples of how diverse the Niagara Escarpment is. You’ll see Cabot Head grey shale, Queenston Formation red shale, shale dolomite and limestone to name a few. The differences can clearly be seen as the layers of rock have been stacked and compressed over millions of years.

While there used to be the Devil’s Punch Bowl Side Trail that followed Ridge Road, it seems as though this has been officially closed for safety reasons. My guess is there are other ways to access the base of the falls but you’ll be doing so at your own risk.

Devil’s Punch Bowl from the Base in Spring

How to Visit the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area

The best place to park for the Devil’s Punch Bowl is at the lot off of Ridge Road close to the lookout. Here you’ll pay $8 for the day. You may want to arrive early during peak season though as there aren’t many spots available. While street parking was available in the past, this is not the case any longer.

If you’re willing to hike to save some cash (which I’m always a fan of), then you can find street parking along one of the accesses to the Dofasco 2000 trail. Then, follow the trail as it leads right to the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area!

Smokey Hollow Falls in the Winter

Smokey Hollow Falls

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Norman Pearson Side Trail, Upper Grindstone Side Trail

Also known as Boundary Falls, Grindstone Falls, Great Falls and Waterdown Falls, Smokey Hollow Falls is a powerful beauty. While she only sits 10 metres high, Smokey Hollow Falls has one of the strongest flows in the area as water rushes along Grindstone Creek and over her crest.

Another of the Hamilton waterfalls that’s great for families and the elderly, you can view her from the lookout platform located a few steps from the parking lot. You can also follow the Bruce Trail downwards along Grindstone Creek to see her from another angle. While you previously could follow the creek to her base, this is no longer the case and you could be ticketed.

If you visit during the winter months, the trail can get extremely icy due to the mist from Smokey Hollow Falls. If you have ice cleats like these, bring them along to help secure your steps. I highly advise against trying to access the base of Smokey Hollow Falls in the winter as there are a plethora of slip hazards.

SOMETHING TO NOTE: In this area, sections of the main Bruce Trail may be closed periodically by Conservation Halton. This is due to a 10 year Hazard Tree Removal project where they’re removing ash trees affected by the Emerald Ash Borer. An invasive species native to Asia, it has few natural enemies here in Canada and has killed tens of millions of ash trees since it was first detected in 2002.

Smokey Hollow Falls in the Spring When the River Was Accessible

How to Visit Smokey Hollow Falls

A Hamilton waterfall with free parking right next to her? Huzzah! This is one of the big perks of Smokey Hollow Falls, along with the fact that she has some great hiking trails close by. During the peak summer months however, this parking lot fills up fast and the area can get really hectic. When it’s full, there isn’t a lot of room to maneuver.

Do NOT park along Mill Street as this causes a huge hazard and you will be ticketed. This area is now more popular than when I first started visiting and therefore, is being watched more closely by bylaw officers. Respect all signage and only park where it is legal and safe to do so.

If you don’t mind a bit of a walk, I have heard there is also roadside parking available along Snake Road as well as Mountain Brow Road across from Flanders Drive. You can also head to the heart of Waterdown and find road parking along Flamboro Street. Do this at your own risk and always follow all municipal signage.

Felker’s Falls in Early April

Felker’s Falls

Another one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Hamilton, Felkers Falls is a stunner that should be added to any Hamilton waterfall itinerary! This terraced ribbon waterfall stands approximately 22 metres (72 feet) tall. There are no official trails to the base of the falls but she can be admired from the edge of the Niagara Escarpment.

Felker’s Falls was formerly owned by Joseph Benjamin Felker (1880-1956). Not much is known about him other than he was born and lived his entire life on the same property.

While she is said to flow all year round, she is definitely prone to a lower flow in the summer months. This is another one of Hamilton’s waterfalls that is best visited in the spring or winter months.

How to Visit Felker’s Falls

Felker’s Falls is in the heart of the Felker’s Falls Conservation Area. Parking is free and located at 43 Ackland Street. It is also located along the East Mountain Trail Loop which connects to the aforementioned Albion Falls and Buttermilk Falls.

RELATED: If you’re looking for more hiking opportunities near by, check out the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area!

Lindz Checking Out Tews Falls in Autumn

Tew’s Falls: The Tallest Waterfall in Hamilton

Nearby Hiking Trails: Bruce Trail, Dundas Lookout Trail, Glen Ferguson Side Trail, Tews Falls Side Trail

At 41 metres tall, this ribbon waterfall is sure to wow you! Tew’s Falls is narrow as her crest is just 9 metres wide but it doesn’t take away from her beauty!

FUN FACT: Tew’s Falls is actually only a few metres shorter than Niagara Falls in height – just to give you some perspective!

It’s said that back in the day, the flow of the East Spencer Creek (also known as Logie’s Creek) over the Niagara Escarpment was once as large as that of Niagara’s Horseshoe Falls. As any visit nowadays will confirm, this is no longer the case as most of the historic flow has dissipated. This just means you’ll need to be a little strategic when visiting her. Visiting after a heavy rain, during the spring thaw or in the winter is your best bet.

If she is dry, the trek won’t be for nothing as you’ll also find the Dundas Peak lookout here. This is one of – if not, THE most popular spot in Hamilton for leaf peepers in the fall. I can say for certain that the views are spectacular with all the autumn colours, but honestly, they’re incredible all year long.

While at one point you could access the base of Tew’s Falls, this is no longer the case. She’s best admired from the lookout platform or you can continue down the trail for additional glimpses of her beauty.

Tew’s Falls in Winter

How to Visit Tew’s Falls

Reservations are now required during peak visiting times for Tew’s Falls as the Hamilton Conservation Authority established a reservation system in 2020. Reservations are in 2 hour blocks and must be made a day in advance. For a family of four, it will cost $41 for a two-hour window at Tews Falls and the Dundas Peak. Parking for Tews Falls is located at 581 Harvest Road.

SOMETHING TO NOTE: You can no longer visit Tew’s Falls and Webster’s Falls in the same visit due to needing separate reservations for each.

For the 2024 season, reservations are only required on long weekends and will be instated daily during the peak fall colour season. Reservations can be booked here by selecting the ‘Spencer Gorge’ tab.

There is still a way to access both Tews Falls as well as Dundas Peak without paying to park off of the main Bruce Trail. You can access the trail from Sydenham Road.

INSIDER TIP: While the fees at Tew’s and Webster’s are not fun, having your receipt will give you access to another Hamilton Conservation Authority area on that day like the Christie Lake Conservation Area.

Webster’s Falls in Winter

Webster’s Falls: The Long-Known Hamilton Beauty

Nearby Trails: None

Last but certainly not least, the ever-famous Webster’s Falls. This 22 metre plunge waterfall sits 30 metres wide and she’s always flowing well!

Sometimes referred to as Webster Falls, the waterfall has been popular for centuries and has quite the history. In the early 1800s, this waterfall was known as Dr Hamilton’s Falls, named after Dr James Hamilton who owned the land. A few years later, it was purchased by Joseph Webster. The Webster family manor can still be found on Webster’s Falls Road along with their preserved gravestones.

What was once the top waterfall in Hamilton, Webster’s Falls has since decreased in popularity over the years as she has become less accessible. Previously there was a staircase where you could access the base of Webster’s Falls. However, it was removed a few years back after fencing was erected for public safety concerns. I was lucky enough to make it to the base of the falls before this happened, and the views are incredible! I’ve heard it’s still possible to make it to the base, however you have to climb upstream along Spencer Creek. This is quite the trek and while it can be done, it is strictly prohibited on Hamilton Conservation Authority land and you can be subject to fines if caught.

Webster’s Falls From the Base When It Was Accessible

How to Visit Webster’s Falls

Similar to Tew’s Falls, you will need to make a reservation with the Hamilton Conservation Authority at least one day in advance. Reservations are in 2 hour blocks and parking for Websters Falls is located at 28 Fallsview Road. Webster’s Falls is not included in the reservation for Tew’s Falls so if you wish to visit both of these Hamilton waterfalls, be prepared to pay twice.

Also, Webster’s Falls is no longer accessible via the Bruce Trail. You can only access her from the parking lot by paying the entrance fee. 

A few years ago you could visit Tew’s Falls and Webster’s Falls in one day as a section of Bruce Trail used to connect the two. However, this is another fine example of some people ruining it for others as the kind owners of the property have been forced to revoke access for the sake of their safety.

Why am I sharing this? As an example of how access to beautiful aspects of nature can be revoked at any time. In this case, instead of cherishing and respecting this privilege, people choose to disrespect the owners by venturing off-path, too many cases of public indecency and even some instances when police needed to be involved. Remember where you are and respect the land you’re on as well as the nature you’re viewing.

Looking for More Waterfalls in Ontario to Visit?
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Hamilton’s Princess Falls

Additional Hamilton Waterfalls to Visit

While the beauties listed above are definitely the best waterfalls in Hamilton, there are a few others to be admired. They may not be as big or as fierce, but they’re gorgeous in their own way. Here are a few more Hamilton waterfalls to check out!

Chedoke Falls – Located along the aptly named Chedoke Radial Trail, Chedoke Falls sits 18 metres (60 feet) tall and 9 metres (30 feet) wide at the crest. While it is possible to access the base of the falls, this is considered trespassing and you can be ticketed. However, you may not want to as it’s been said that sewage runoff is pretty common in this area…

Princess Falls – Another one to hit along the Chedoke Radial Trail, Princess Falls is 7 metres (23 feet) tall and is another one of Hamilton’s waterfalls best seen in the winter or spring. Also known as Lang’s Falls, it’s a great one to add to your list if you’re spending some time exploring along the radial trail.

Mountview Falls – Another one of the more quaint waterfalls in Hamilton, Mountview Falls is best seen in the spring or winter. Just a short 15 minute walk from Princess Falls, Mountview Falls is a little taller than her counterpart and stands 10 metres (33 feet) in height and 1.2 metres (4 feet) wide.

Little Davis Falls – Located along an offshoot of the Red Hill Creek called Davis Creek, it’s sometimes referred to as Little Felkers Falls. Standing 3 metres (10 feet) tall with a crest of 5.5 metres (18 feet), this twin curtain waterfall can be experienced year-round. There isn’t an official access to it though you can park at the end of Quigley Road and follow the trail to see it.

Westcliffe Falls – You’ll find this beauty just west of Cliffview Park, a great spot for some incredible views of Hamilton. This 18 metre (60 foot) tall complex ribbon cascade does have a year round flow, though it’s definitely best viewed in the winter or spring.

If you’re not sure where they’re all located, click on the image of the Hamilton waterfalls map below to help you plan your adventure. 

Best Hamilton Hiking Trails with Waterfalls

Without a doubt, the answer to this would be the Bruce Trail. It’s massive as it spans ~900km as it follows the Niagara Escarpment – and that’s just the main trail! There are additional side trails (which I affectionately call “Side Bruce”) for even more fun. (Click to learn more about hiking the Bruce Trail!) Mind you these trails aren’t all in Hamilton as she runs from Tobermory to Queenston. The majority of Hamilton’s waterfalls do live along the Escarpment and thus close to the Bruce Trail.

As I said earlier, it’s possible to see a few of the top waterfalls in Hamilton with one epic hike. My go-to for this is the loop between Canterbury Falls, Sherman Falls and Tiffany Falls. I suggest doing them in that order so each waterfall gets the appreciation she deserves! This is the best hike to get a true taste of the city of waterfalls in a short time frame. If you have more time, then be sure to visit some of these places to hike in Hamilton!

When is the Best Time to Tackle these Hamilton Waterfall Hikes?

The answer to this truly depends on your preference! Each of these majestic beauties (along with their 115+ counterparts) are beautiful no matter what time of the year it is.

Spring’s thaw will give you the best example of how fierce Hamilton’s waterfalls can be. This usually happens around the end of March and can last until mid-May. Even the smallest of waterfalls will be showing off with fantastic displays of force! Something to note is that the trails can be muddy at this time of the year, so be prepared. Gaiters and possibly an extra pair of socks/boots may be necessary so as to not suffer from wet feet all day long.

If you’re more comfortable in warmer weather, then visit in the summer months from June-August. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the sun can be pretty intense. There are wooded areas which can help keep the sun at bay, but with the woods come mosquitoes. It doesn’t hurt to have some bug spray handy if you are prone to mosquito bites!

Once the temperature starts to cool, these Hamilton waterfalls will be surrounded with brilliant fall foliage. It’s one of my favourite ways to enjoy autumn in Ontario. Enjoy the reds and oranges as they contrast against the cool blues of the water. Autumn can be a tricky time to visit as it truly depends on the weather. The leaves can start to turn as early as mid-September and last as late as the end of November. Other years they’ve only been around for 2 weeks! It’s best to keep an eye on the temperatures but know that once we’ve had our first frost, you’re on the clock. The leaves will disappear shortly after!

If you’re a fan of winter like me, then 100% this is the best time to experience the waterfalls of Hamilton. The ephemeral beauty of a frozen Tiffany Falls will absolutely take your breath away. You’ll also have the majority of the trails to yourself too, which makes for a calmer, more serene hike. All you need is a few layers and you’ll be ready for any winter waterfall hike!

Don’t Forget to Respect These Waterfalls Around Hamilton

Like any hiking near Hamilton, Ontario or anywhere in the world for that matter – nature isn’t a right, it’s a privilege. Leave it in better shape than you arrived and if you see any garbage, pick it up. There may not always be trash facilities nearby, but I often bring a bag for garbage with me so I can do my part to keep our trails clean.

Many of the trails here, especially those in conjunction with the Bruce Trail, run through private property. This means we should respect it even more as they are kind enough to allow us access. That kindness can be revoked at any time if we don’t treat the trails well!

As well, while waterfalls are absolutely beautiful, they can also be dangerous. Never put your life or any other’s in danger in the quest for an ‘epic selfie’. Too many times people have been rope rescued due to carelessness. This leads to fencing or eventually, areas being shut down entirely. Don’t be the reason this happens. Always wear proper hiking gear, let someone know where you are (or better yet, hike with a buddy!), and don’t hike after dark.

Now, what are you waiting for?! Get planning an adventure with some of these Hamilton hikes! Which of these beauties do you think are the best waterfalls in Hamilton? Would you dare say some of them are the best waterfalls in Ontario? I think you need to visit them all before you decide and I’d love to hear which ones you’d crown as the best Hamilton waterfalls.

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Hamilton…
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