The ‘Waterfall Capital of the World' is in Ontario where you can explore 100 plus stunning waterfalls
As the Civic Holiday long weekend approaches, Ontario residents can discover Hamilton's natural wonders by visiting the many waterfalls that cut through the city.
Travel magazine
Condé Nast Traveler
once called Hamilton the Waterfall Capital of the World.
Smithsonian Magazine
notes Hamilton's waterfall wealth comes from its location along the Niagara Escarpment, an arc-shaped ridge that spans the Great Lakes region. The natural feature comes from years of erosion along a fault line.
Hamilton has more than 100 waterfalls
within its city limits. Many are accessible from maintained trails, including the Bruce Trail, and public viewing areas.
Spectators should watch for steep drop offs and unstable ground near waterfalls. Be sure to obey fenced off areas and avoid the urge to risk your safety for that perfect selfie.
Tourism Hamilton
has compiled a list of the top waterfalls in Hamilton, with 10 water features the public should see.
Felker's Falls
, nestled in the Felker's Falls Conservation Area of Stoney Creek is a hidden gem, with a ribbon-like waterfall and significant geological rock formations in the bedrock gorge.
Tiffany Falls is off Wilson Street East in Ancaster.
Tiffany Falls
in the community of Ancaster is accessible via a short walk from Wilson Street. The expansive cascade waterfall is part of a conservation area that includes a forested trail, bridges and a stream.
Devil's Punchbowl off Ridge Road in Stoney Creek.
The
Devil's Punchbowl
, located in a conservation area in Stoney Creek, is among the most stunning natural formations along the Niagara Escarpment, according to Tourism Hamilton. The deep multicoloured gorge is a history lesson in geology.
Albion Falls, surrounded by lush summer foliage, is pictured in this July 2023 photo.
Albion Falls
is one of Hamilton's most popular waterfalls. The Red Hill Creek in the city's east end slows over rock steps and shelves, creating a cascade of rushing water.
Smokey Hollow Falls is off Mill Street in Waterdown.
Smokey Hollow Falls
is a ribbon waterfall in the community of Waterdown in a leafy forest setting. The water feature is created by flows from Grindstone Creek.
Sherman Falls is pictured in this file photo.
Sherman Falls
happens to lie on private property, but the owners are happy to let others enjoy the beauty, according to Tourism Hamilton. The falls are also known as Fairy or Angel Falls and are located along a popular hike route on the Bruce Trail.
Borer's Falls can be viewed from escarpment land managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens.
The 15-metre
Borer's Falls
once powered a local sawmill. The seasonal waterfall is visible through the trees at the top of the escarpment on land managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Located within the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, the
Hermitage Cascade
flows from Sulphur Creek at a modest four metres tall. The water feature is easy to find beside the Hermitage gatehouse and serves as an ideal starting point for a nature hike.
A hiker reaches out to get some spray off the base of Webster Falls in this October 2020 file photo.
Webster Falls
is the largest waterfall in the regions and the most popular, according to Tourism Hamiton. The 22-metre classical curtain waterfall draws guests from all over Ontario, especially in the fall, when the changing leaves offer a breathtaking backdrop. The falls are a key feature of the Spencer Gorge/Webster Falls Conservation Area, one of Upper Canada's earliest industrial communities.
Due to the popularity of Webster Falls to view the autumn leaves, the site requires
online reservations
to visit, starting in September.
Tew Falls is pictured in this September 2020 file photo.
Tew Falls
are often considered a package deal with nearby Webster Falls, but the site is worth a visit on its own. The ribbon waterfall is the tallest in Hamilton and marks the beginning of an uphill forested hike. Nature enthusiasts can visit the famous Dundas Peak and enjoy stunning views of Dundas, known as the Valley Town, according to
Tourism Hamilton
.
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