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Summary

This trail near Toronto leads to a stunning cascade that's almost as tall as Niagara Falls

It looks like it belongs in Costa Rica.

A ribbon waterfall.

A waterfall near Toronto.

Lead Writer, Travel

Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic cascades in the province, drawing millions of visitors each year. The powerful water and impressive views make it a tourist hotspot.

You can, however, find a waterfall nearly as tall as this famous natural wonder just outside of Toronto.

Surrounded by lush woodlands and beautiful scenery, the waterfall is a gorgeous destination for a day trip.

You can reach the cascade by hiking your way along a trail, which takes you to the towering ribbon waterfall as well as a scenic lookout.

If chasing waterfalls sounds like your idea of the perfect outing, here's what to know about this enchanting cascade.

Tew Falls is an enchanting cascade located in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area in Dundas, just over an hour from Toronto. The water topples 41 metres over the escarpment, making it only slightly shorter than Niagara's Horseshoe Falls, which measures 52 metres tall.

Tew Falls is surrounded by lush greenery and trees, making it look like a scene you might find in a tropical place like Costa Rica.

To reach this natural wonder, you can follow the Dundas Peak & Tew Falls Loop. There are two viewing platforms along the trail where you can get breathtaking views of the waterfall and gorge.

Tew Falls isn't the only beautiful landmark you'll encounter along the hike. You can continue along the trail, staying right, until you reach Dundas Peak.

This towering lookout spot features "incomparable" views and on a clear day, you can Hamilton Harbour as well as small towns like Ancaster and Dundas.

It's an especially beautiful place to visit during the fall, when the scenery below transforms into a sea of red and orange.

Spencer Gorge features another waterfall, Webster Falls, which can be found along a separate hike and requires a separate reservation.

Reservations for both waterfalls can be made online and are required on long weekends as well as during the fall colour season.

If you're looking for a beautiful nature escape near the city then you may want to take a trip to this magnificent cascade.

Tew Falls

Price: $16 per vehicle and driver, $5 per passenger

Address: 581 Harvest Rd., Dundas, ON

Tew Falls website

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.

This article has been updated since it was originally published on August 18, 2023.

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  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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