8 stunning waterfall hikes in Ontario that will take you to majestic cascades this spring
It's the season to chase some waterfalls!
A waterfall in Ontario.
Spring is the perfect time to chase some waterfalls. Thanks to melting snow and spring rain, these cascades can appear more majestic than ever. If you're looking for some beautiful waterfall hikes in Ontario, these spots are worth checking out.
From cascades hidden in leafy woodlands to natural wonders with old ruins, these Ontario waterfalls are worth the hike. You can enjoy some beautiful scenery while listening to the peaceful sounds of spring.
Here are eight waterfall hikes to enjoy around the province this season.
Ball's Falls Conservation Area
Price: $14.75 per vehicle and driver
Address: 3292 Sixth Ave., Lincoln, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nestled in the stunning Twenty Valley, this conservation area is a spring oasis with two majestic cascades.
You can discover a mid-19th-century industrial hamlet with old-world buildings and shops, such as a blacksmith shop and flour mill.
The scenic Cataract Trail takes you through the village and along the Twenty Mile Creek to both the upper and lower waterfalls. A 1.7-kilometre trek leads to the breathtaking Upper Falls, making it a perfect short and sweet adventure.
Inglis Falls
Price: $10 parking pass
Address: 237785 Inglis Falls Rd., Owen Sound, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated just outside the quaint city of Owen Sound, Inglis Falls is a majestic cascade to visit this spring.
According to the website, it's known as one of "the best waterfalls in the area" and features an 18-metre drop into a rushing gorge.
This natural wonder is located in the Inglis Falls Conservation Area, which features 200 hectares of gorgeous scenery and trails.
If you're not up for a long hike, you can easily access the waterfall from the parking lot. Here, you'll find a lookout platform where you can soak up some incredible views.
Tew Falls
Price: $16.50 per vehicle and driver
Address: 581 Harvest Rd., Dundas, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated in the scenic Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, Tew Falls is one of two gorgeous cascades in the park and is worth checking out this spring.
The 41-metre ribbon waterfall is tucked away amidst the trees and can be viewed from the surrounding platforms.
The waterfall can be found at the start of a loop that takes you to the towering Dundas Peak.
Webster Falls is another cascade located in the conservation area, offering a dreamy setting with its curtain-like flow and charming stone bridge.
Tiffany Falls Conservation Area
Price: $11.50 parking fee
Address: 900 Wilson St. E., Hamilton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This 21-metre-high waterfall is tucked away in a forest and is a magical natural wonder to visit. The woodland trail takes you over bridges and streams, and you'll feel like you're in a spring fairytale.
If you're looking for a longer hike after seeing the cascade, there's a connection to the Bruce Trail.
Tiffany Falls is a popular destination, and the parking lot can fill up, so it's a good idea to visit during off-peak times.
Smokey Hollow Falls
Price: Free
Address: 80 Mill St. S., Waterdown, ON
Why You Need To Go: Smokey Hollow Falls may be small, but it has no shortage of enchantment. The ribbon waterfall is tucked away in a leafy forest and looks like something you'd find in a storybook.
For a scenic hike nearby, you can follow the Waterdown Trail, which is a picturesque in-and-out hike around 11 kilometres long.
Belfountain Conservation Area
Price: $8 per adult
When: Re-opening May 2025
Address: 819 Forks of the Credit Rd., Caledon, ON
Why You Need To Go: This beautiful conservation area is reopening this May, and it's a gorgeous spot to spend a day. With scenic trails and limestone cliffs, it has no shortage of scenery.
One of the highlights is the swing bridge which takes you across a dreamy waterfall.
Stubb's Falls
Price: $12.25 + for vehicle permit
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd., Huntsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: Hidden in Arrowhead Provincial Park, Stubb's Falls is a dreamy cascade featuring a quaint bridge over a river.
According to Ontario Parks, this trail is best "in early spring when wildflowers and songbirds will be your reward."
The waterfall is nestled along a scenic 2.6-kilometre route, which takes approximately 40 minutes to complete.
With many other breathtaking trails that wind through the park, there’s plenty more to explore if you're craving even more adventure.
Hilton Falls
Price: $10.50 per adult
Address: 4985 Campbellville Rd., Milton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This conservation area is home to gorgeous spring hikes, old ruins and a crystal-blue reservoir.
The Hilton Falls Trail takes you to both the enchanting cascade and historic ruins. It's an easy 3-kilometre roundtrip that begins conveniently at the parking lot, so you don't need to go on a long trek to discover this natural wonder.
Reservations are recommended, so plan ahead!
From towering cascades to hidden gems, these beautiful waterfalls are worth checking out this spring.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.