25 Waterfalls in Ontario You Won’t Want to Miss (2023)
Are you chasing the best Ontario waterfalls?
If you’re on a mission to visit the best waterfalls in Ontario, then you’re in the right place! With over 400 waterfalls around the province, there are some absolutely stunning sites to choose from.
We’ve selected 25 of our favourite, many of which we have visited firsthand, to showcase across the province, from the rugged Niagara Escarpment up to the shores of Lake Superior, and everywhere in between. If you’ve been eager to find the most beautiful waterfalls near you, then here’s a preview of what we’ll cover:
- 25 Waterfalls in Ontario to Visit This Year
- Waterfalls Near Toronto
- Waterfalls in Hamilton, Ontario
- Waterfalls in Niagara Region
- Waterfalls in Grey County
- Waterfall Near London, Ontario
- Waterfalls Near Ottawa
- Waterfalls in Northern Ontario
- Muskoka Waterfalls
- Waterfalls Near Thunder Bay
- Other Beautiful Ontario Waterfalls
- Ontario Waterfalls FAQs
- Wrap Up: Waterfalls in Ontario
25 Waterfalls in Ontario to Visit This Year
Few things showcase the natural beauty of Ontario like a waterfall. Whether you visit during the peak flow of the spring, see the lush greenery in the heat of summer, take in the picturesque fall colours, or witness the dazzling iced-over waterfalls of the winter, each of these sites is beautiful in every season.
Let’s explore some of Ontario’s most beautiful waterfalls and relish this incredible province we call home.
Waterfalls Near Toronto
We’ll start with identifying some of the best waterfalls near Toronto, since many of our readers are located in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). While the city doesn’t have any noteworthy waterfalls to highlight, there are many close by.
We’ll start with highlighting Belfountain Falls near Caledon (in Peel Region). We’ll then move onto the many nearby waterfalls in Hamilton, Ontario.
Belfountain Falls
đź“Ť10 Credit Park St, Belfountain, ON
Belfountain Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Belfountain Conservation Area, a 10 minute drive from the town of Erin, or a 30 minute drive from Brampton. One of the best features of this waterfall is that you can view it from a wooden suspension bridge, which makes for incredible shots of the falls.
In addition to the falls, the Belfountain Conservation Area is a great spot for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the West Credit River Gorge. The park boasts a variety of trails that are suitable for hikers of all skill levels, ranging from short, easy walks to longer and more challenging hikes.
Due to its proximity to the Greater Toronto Area, Belfountain Falls can get very busy on weekends and holidays. It is one of the best waterfalls near Toronto and one of our recommended activities near Brampton, particularly after a good rain!
Waterfalls in Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton is known both as the “Waterfalls Capital of the World” and the “City of Waterfalls.” With over 150 waterfalls located within the city limits, Hamilton is the place to go in Ontario to see waterfalls!
We can’t possibly cover each waterfall here, so we’ve picked a few of our favourites.
Sherman Falls
đź“ŤOld Dundas Road, Hamilton, ON
Sherman Falls is a beautiful 17-meter tall curtain waterfall located in Hamilton, Ontario.
To reach Sherman Falls, you can take a short walk along the Bruce Trail from Lion’s Club Road. However, there is no parking in front of the falls itself. Instead, you can park at the Artaban Road parking lot, which is about 1 km from the short trail to Sherman Falls.
For those who enjoy hiking, the Bruce Trail offers a scenic route between Tiffany Falls and Sherman Falls. You can park at Tiffany Falls and hike along the Bruce Trail to reach Sherman Falls. Both falls offer really scenic waterfall views, and are some of the best you’ll find in the city.
Devil’s Punchbowl
đź“Ť 204 Ridge Road, Stoney Creek, ON
Devil’s Punchbowl in Hamilton is a 34-meter ribbon waterfall that drops into a natural punchbowl gorge. Tall, breathtaking and beautiful, this waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Hamilton, and one of the most visited waterfalls near Toronto.
Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area is located on Ridge Road, just off Centennial Parkway outside of Hamilton. There is also a main lookout over the city and the Niagara Escarpment that you can reach within 150 meters of the parking lot. You’ll also find a big cross structure here that lights up at night.
There are a few lookouts over the falls and the escarpment, but unfortunately, like many of the waterfalls in Hamilton, you cannot access the bottom of the falls. Doing so could land you a hefty $10,000 fine.
If you do want to hike around the area, you can hike the Bruce Trail (by way of the Devil’s Punchbowl Side Trail) and the Dofasco 2000 Trail, which includes a boardwalk through the Vinemount Swamp.
We’ve personally visited Devil’s Punchbowl a few times and the sheer size of the “punchbowl” gorge seems to amaze us every time.
Tew’s Falls
đź“Ť581 Harvest Road, Dundas, ON
Tews Falls is a beautiful natural waterfall located in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area in Dundas, Ontario. It is one of two waterfalls in this conservation area, the other being Webster Falls.
Tews Falls is a 41-meter ribbon plunge waterfall, and at this height, it is likely to be the second tallest waterfall in Southern Ontario, after Niagara Falls. You can access Tews Falls by purchasing a day pass to the conservation area, where you can also visit Webster Falls on the same day without having to pay extra.
It’s important to note that despite what you may read online from others who have done it, hiking between the two waterfalls is not allowed, as you would have to cross the CN Railway, which is considered illegal to do.
There are several lookout platforms by the waterfall, providing awesome views of the falls up-close. Depending on the season, Tews Falls can either be a trickle, or a full-force waterfall. If you want the best views, we recommend going in spring or winter.
Tews Falls is also situated on the trail to the Dundas Peak Lookout, where you can get an incredible view of the surrounding area from the top of the Niagara Escarpment. Dundas Peak is very popular during autumn, when people flock here to catch a glimpse of the fall colours.Â
Make sure to plan your visit to Tews Falls, Webster Falls and Dundas Peak in advance, as reservations are required at certain times of the year. These three sites make for an awesome outing chasing waterfalls near Hamilton!
Felker’s Falls
đź“Ť43 Ackland St, Stoney Creek, ON
Felker’s Falls is another one of the Niagara Escarpment’s most beautiful waterfalls. At 22-meters-tall, this terraced ribbon waterfall is located within Felker’s Falls Conservation Area in Stoney Creek, Ontario.
You can access Felker’s Falls from the parking lot on Ackland Street. Peter Street Trail is a short trail that leads to the falls. This trail is wheelchair accessible.
For those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature, Felker’s Falls is part of the East Mountain Trail Loop, which provides access to three other waterfalls in addition to this one: Buttermilk Falls, Albion Falls, and Glendale Falls. This makes for an excellent day trip for anyone wanting to see multiple waterfalls in the same area.
While Felker’s Falls flows year-round, it is significantly more robust during the spring months. However, winter is also a beautiful time to view the falls, as the water freezes over the rock wall.
For the adventurous types who want to explore the area more thoroughly, there is apparently a trail that can take you to the bottom of Felker’s Falls. This trail starts near where Quigley Road becomes Hildegard Drive, and if you follow it upstream along Davis Creek you can eventually reach Felker’s Falls.
While we haven’t checked this out ourselves, others have reported that this is how you can get to the bottom of Felker’s Falls.
Webster’s Falls
đź“Ť28 Fallsview Road, Dundas, ON
Webster Falls is a classical curtain waterfall located in Hamilton. It is approximately 22 meters high and is widely regarded as one of Hamilton’s most picturesque waterfalls. It’s also one of the more unique waterfalls in Hamilton because of its wide crest of 30-meters.
The park surrounding Webster Falls includes picnic tables, a pavilion, and open grassy clearings. While there are no significant hiking trails you can access from Webster Falls, it’s a great place to relax or let the kids run around in the park while you take in the views of the falls.
If you plan on visiting Webster Falls during peak times of the year may need to make an online reservation with the Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA), so it’s best to check the reservation requirements in advance.
Albion Falls
đź“Ť750 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton, ON
Albion Falls in Hamilton is one of the city’s most impressive waterfalls. At 19 meters tall and nearly as wide, this stepped cascade waterfall is a beautiful roadside sight located along Mountain Brow Boulevard, a short detour off of the Lincoln Alexander Parkway.
You can hike to Albion Falls from nearby Buttermilk Falls via the Mountain Brow Side Trail. To do this short, 10-minute hike, park at Oak Knoll Park along Mountain Brow Boulevard. Follow Mountain Brow Side Trail along the escarpment through Upper King’s Forest Park until you reach the Albion Falls lookouts.
You can also carry on hiking to Glendale Falls. To do this, follow Mountain Brow Boulevard after the Albion Falls lookouts, until you get to Mud Street. At the end of Mud Street you will find the Red Hill Trail parking lot, where you can take the Bruce Trail through the Red Hill Valley to Glendale Falls.
You can also view Albion Falls on the side of Mountain Brow Boulevard, though this involves parking along the road in undesignated areas, and walking along the road. The lookouts from the road aren’t great, so it’s best to do the hike through Upper King’s Forest Park if you’re physically able.
While Albion Falls is an incredibly beautiful waterfall, its unfortunate location along the side of a road makes it slightly less exciting than the waterfalls you have to discover by hiking on a forested trail.
Tiffany Falls
đź“Ť900 Wilson Street E, Ancaster, ON
Tiffany Falls is one of two waterfalls located in Tiffany Falls Conservation Area in Ancaster near Hamilton. Located a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot on Wilson Street, this is a great waterfall to see with kids who may not be up for a long walk.
While the hike to Tiffany Falls is short, it’s not suitable for those with mobility concerns needing an accessible path.
Tiffany Falls is particularly interesting to view in the winter, as ice-climbing is allowed at this waterfall. It’s also great to view in the spring, when the water flows heavily. At other times, you may only see a trickle coming down Tiffany Falls.
This waterfall is also particularly beautiful because its location in the lush Carolinian forest. Make sure to take time to admire these falls from the structured viewing platform at the base of the falls.
If you’re looking for a hike to more waterfalls from Tiffany Falls, you can follow the Bruce Trail to Sherman Falls and Canterbury Falls, which are about a half-hour hike away.
Waterfalls in Niagara Region
The most famous waterfall in Ontario is undoubtedly Niagara Falls. While we’ve chosen not to highlight Niagara Falls in this list, we will highlight some of the other beautiful waterfalls in the Niagara Region.
These next two falls are great side trips if you’re visiting Niagara Falls or staying in the Niagara-on-the-Lake wine region and want to see naturally beautiful sites that aren’t filled with crowds of tourists.
Decew Falls
đź“Ť2714 Decew Road, St Catharines, ON
The Decew Falls in Ontario, Canada are composed of two distinct falls – Upper Decew Falls and Lower Decew Falls. Upper Decew Falls is a 22-meter plunge waterfall, while Lower Decew Falls is smaller a cascade waterfall.
Most people view Decew Falls from the Bruce Trail that runs behind the old Morningstar Mill. While the views from here aren’t ideal, as you’re looking through trees from a distance or from inside the mill if it happens to be open, the waterfall itself is still beautiful.
One of the highlights of visiting Decew Falls is the opportunity to follow the trails along the top of the gorge. If you continue hiking past Upper Decew Falls, you will eventually reach Lower Decew Falls. You can even make you way into Short Hills Provincial Park via the Bruce Trail.
While we haven’t attempted getting to the base of Upper Decew Falls, others have reported that you can descend into the gorge by Lower Decew Falls, and follow the water upstream until you get to the Upper Falls, which is where you can get the best view of the falls.
It’s unclear whether this is currently permitted, and if you attempt to hike it, you are doing so at your own risk. Descending into the gorge is dangerous and should never be attempted by anyone with mobility concerns.
Balls Falls (Upper and Lower)
đź“ŤBall Falls Conservation Area, 3292 Sixth Ave, Lincoln, ON
Upper and Lower Balls Falls are two beautiful waterfalls located in Balls Falls Conservation Area in Twenty Mile Creek Valley. The Upper Balls Falls is an 11-meter cascade, while the Lower Balls Falls is a 27-meter plunge waterfall.
To get to the Balls Falls Conservation Area, take the QEW to Niagara and exit at Victoria Ave. Go south to Sixth Ave and turn right. The entrance and parking lot for the conservation area is on your right.
Balls Falls Conservation Area features several hiking trails that take you through the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Escarpment. There are also some old buildings that make up the Ball’s Falls Historic Village that show what life was like in this pioneer town, making a trip to this conservation area a great day trip for the whole family.
Waterfalls in Grey County
Following the Niagara Escarpment westward, Grey County is home to more great waterfalls. We’ve chosen two to highlight for their exceptional beauty.
Inglis Falls
đź“Ť237785 Inglis Falls Road, Owen Sound
Inglis Falls is a grand, roaring waterfall located in Inglis Falls Conservation Area, in Grey County. It is the largest and most popular of the three waterfalls near Owen Sound, and is worth the day trip to see if you’re anywhere near the area.
The waterfall itself is an 18-metre-high cascade waterfall created by the Sydenham River. Swimming is not allowed at this waterfall, and unfortunately, neither is hiking to the base of the falls. That said, there are a few great viewing spots where you can get epic views of the fall and the deep gorge below.
In addition to the waterfall, Inglis Falls Conservation Area includes over 7 km of hiking and mountain bike trails, picnic areas, a playground, and a pavilion for events. It is a popular recreation spot for locals and tourists to the Southern Bruce Peninsula, and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Getting to Inglis Falls is quite easy, as parking is located right across the street.
Hoggs Falls
đź“Ť170566 Lower Valley Rd, Flesherton, ON
Hogg’s Falls is a picturesque 7-meter tall waterfall in Grey County, that happens to be situated along the popular Bruce Trail. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate, making it manageable for many skill levels, however, it is not wheelchair accessible.
Despite its beauty, it can be hard to get a great look at the falls from the trail. That also means that if you’re the kind of person who loves a good “hidden gem” of a waterfall, then this one is for you!
You should also be aware that the parking lot near the falls is not maintained in the winter, which can make it difficult to access during colder months.
Waterfall Near London, Ontario
While most of the waterfalls in Ontario are found along the Niagara Escarpment, there is one waterfall near London that’s really worth mentioning! If you’re near London and are looking for a great place to take photos or swim in a waterfall, make sure you check out this next one.
Rock Glen Falls
đź“Ť8680 Rock Glen Dr, Arkona, ON
Tucked away in small-town Arkona, Ontario is the beautiful Rock Glen Falls. This 10.7 meter waterfall makes for a perfect road trip from London or activity near Grand Bend.Â
When you visit Rock Glen Falls, you’re in for more than just viewing a beautiful waterfall. When the weather is nice, you’ll find people splashing in the pool at the base of the falls, as well as hiking down the rocky basin to Ausable River. But what Rock Glen Conservation Area is most well known for is its natural supply of Devonian Era fossils!
Believed to have once been a tropical seabed, this part of southwestern Ontario was once home to prehistoric marine species. Their remnants are left behind in the form of unique fossils, mostly concentrated around the Ausable River.
Rock Glen Falls is a beautiful waterfall near London, Ontario, that’s perfect for families looking for a waterfall southwest of the Niagara Escarpment. If that’s you, then be sure to check out Rock Glen Falls this year.
We visited this site and wrote a whole guide to Rock Glen Conservation Area that we recommend checking out.
Waterfalls Near Ottawa
Heading further east and away from the Niagara Escarpment, the Ottawa Valley is home to more picturesque waterfalls. It’s this kind of natural beauty which makes Ottawa all the more worth seeing!
If you’re traveling to Ottawa to see any of these falls, be sure to check out our post on the best ways to travel between Ottawa and Toronto.
Rideau Falls
đź“Ť50 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON
Located where the Rideau River flows into the Ottawa River, Rideau Falls is one of two waterfalls in Ottawa proper. Standing at a height of 11 meters, the falls comprise two distinct waterfalls separated by Green Island. Despite the presence of a dam, the site remains quite beautiful, particularly when illuminated at night.
Green Island, home to numerous monuments and memorials, is an essential part of Ottawa’s history and cultural identity, with Rideau Falls serving as a focal point for locals and tourists alike. Rideau Falls Park, situated nearby, is an excellent location to view the falls, providing great views of the Ottawa River and Quebec on the other side.
Hogsback Falls (Prince of Wales Falls)
📍600 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa, ON
Hog’s Back Falls (or Hogsback Falls), also known as Prince of Wales Falls, is the other waterfall located within the City of Ottawa. Like Rideau Falls, Hog’s Back Falls has been manipulated by a dam onsite.
Hog’s Back Falls is arguably the more beautiful of the two waterfalls in Ottawa. The rocky steps creating many short drops add to the beauty of this waterfall, in addition to the gorge and rapids below.
Princess Louise Falls
đź“ŤSt Joseph Boulevard, Ottawa, ON
Princess Louise Falls is an off-the-beaten-path waterfall located in Orleans, just east of Ottawa. It’s found along Taylor Creek, which meanders through residential streets.
You can get to this waterfall off of St Joseph Boulevard, just past 1st Ave, before reaching Taylor Creek Drive. Alternatively, you can take the trail off of Brookbridge Crescent, but the trail is reportedly often muddy and difficult to traverse.
You can get up close to the bottom of Princess Louise Falls, but there isn’t much water to “swim” in. If you do get up close, be cautious of slippery rocks!
If you’re looking for a hidden gem waterfall near Ottawa, Princess Louise is just for you!
Waterfalls in Northern Ontario
The rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield in Northern Ontario is home to some pretty spectacular waterfalls. From the popular Muskoka region to the wilderness of the deep north, here’s a look at some of the most picturesque you will find in this part of Ontario.
Bridal Veil Falls
đź“Ť123 Main Street Kagawong, Manitoulin Island, ON
If you’re up for seeing one of Ontario’s most iconic Northern Ontario waterfalls, then consider packing your bags for a trip to Manitoulin Island. The 11 meter (34 foot) tall Bridal Veil Falls, located near the community of Kagawong, is one of the most popular attractions on the island, and is the perfect place for swimming, hiking and taking some spectacular photos.
If you’re visiting Bridal Veil Falls, it’s recommended to park in one of the two parking lots in Kagawong that provide trail access to the falls. You can also reportedly park along the side of the road during the busy season when the lots are full.
Bridal Veil Falls is the perfect waterfall with a swimmable pool below, and is connected to trails for additional hiking opportunities. The fall is not a far walk from the road, so if you prefer to keep your hiking to a minimum, you may also enjoy visiting the quaint, historic village of Kagawong, where you can find unique shops and vendors.
Duchesnay Falls
đź“ŤDuchesnay Falls Trails, Hwy 17, North Bay, ON
If you’re looking for a Northern Ontario waterfall with a hike, then Duchesnay Falls in North Bay should be right up your alley. Located along the Duchesnay Falls Trails, this beautiful stepped cascade waterfall is accessed either from a parking lot along Highway 17 just west of North Bay Regional Health Centre, or from the trailhead located behind Canadore College.
What’s great about this site is that Duchesnay Falls isn’t just one waterfall. There are actually many small waterfalls located along a long series of hiking trails accessed from Hwy 17 and from behind the college.
For those looking for quick access to the main attraction, the largest waterfall is located only about 50 meters from the Hwy 17 parking lot. While the trails are reportedly not well marked here, the sound of water is helpful to lead visitors to the falls.
Whether you’re looking for an easily accessible waterfall by the side of the road, or looking for a gorgeous hike to accompany your visit, Duchesnay Falls in North Bay is a great option for Northern Ontario waterfalls that will leave you feeling humbled by the beauty of nature around you.
New Post Falls
đź“ŤUnorganized North Cochrane District, ON
One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Northern Ontario, and in fact in all of Ontario, is New Post Falls along New Post Creek and the Abitibi River. Tucked away in unorganized territory approximately 2 hours north of Smooth Rock Falls, Ontario, this waterfall is rarely seen and remains a hidden gem of The Canadian North.
If traveling from Cochrane, Ontario, you’ll follow Highway 11 west to Smooth Rock Falls. From there, take Highway 634 north to Fraserville. From there, take Otter Rapids Road past the Abitibi Canyon Generating Station. You will eventually see a parking lot with a walking trail that will lead you to the falls.
The flow of New Post Falls is much more powerful than it was in the early 2000s. Thanks to a dam that was built a few kilometers upstream of the falls, the volume of water that now flows over the rocks into the narrow canyon below is much greater than before. While the falls have always been there, the man-made dam has made New Post Falls all the more roaring, and awe-inspiring.
New Post Falls is well off the beaten path for most Ontarians, but those who see it will not soon forget. If you find yourself north of Cochrane, in Northern Ontario, make sure to check out this spectacular site.
Onaping Falls, Sudbury
đź“ŤA.Y. Jackson Lookout, ON-144, Greater Sudbury, ON
If you’re looking for a mesmerizing waterfall near Sudbury, Ontario, then Onaping Falls should be on your bucket list. Also known as Onaping High Falls or simply as High Falls, this waterfall changes elevation by around 150 feet, over the course of multiple smaller falls or stepped cascades.
When you visit Onaping Falls, you have the choice of either keeping to the A.Y. Jackson Lookout (which is wheelchair accessible), or taking to the trails. There is a 2km trail by the lookout that leads you through the forest and along the Onaping River. There’s also a pedestrian bridge over the falls for up-close views.
Onaping falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Ontario, and is certainly one to impress.
Muskoka Waterfalls
The popular cottage country of the Muskoka region is filled deep blue rivers and lakes, rocky shorelines, coniferous forests and picturesque resorts. There are also a number of both impressive and small waterfalls in Muskoka. Here’s a look at three of our favourites in the region.
High Falls & Little High Falls, Muskoka
đź“ŤHigh Falls Road, Bracebridge, ON
Located along the Trans-Canada Trail, just north of Bracebridge, you will find a cluster of beautiful, Muskoka waterfalls. The main attraction here is High Falls, a rushing 50-foot-tall waterfall, partially created by the dam that precedes it.
While the site of the dam does detract a bit from the esthetic of this site, the view of the rushing water and the lake below do much to remind you of the beauty of the Muskokas around you.
A hiking trail also leads to the smaller Little High Falls and Pott’s Falls, giving you a three-for-one deal at this Muskoka waterfall site.
If you’re spending time in the area during summer, consider heading to the High Falls Water Park, which you can see from the top of High Falls. With multiple great waterfalls, hiking trails and even a water park closeby, it’s easy to see how High Falls north of Bracebridge is one of best waterfalls in Ontario.
Stubbs Falls in Arrowhead Provincial Park
đź“Ť451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, ON
Stubb’s Falls is a beautiful cascade waterfall located within Arrowhead Provincial Park, 10 minutes north of Huntsville. The waterfall is formed by the Stubbs Creek, which flows through a narrow channel before cascading into the pool below.
The falls are a popular attraction for visitors to Arrowhead Provincial Park. Accessible by way of the 2.5km loop Stubb’s Falls Trail, this waterfall is best for those comfortable with hiking, and those looking for a little extra adventure while chasing waterfalls.
While you’re in the park, don’t forget to check out Big Bend Lookout, where you’ll see the circular island surrounded by the circular body of water – a site that Arrowhead Provincial Park is well-known for.
The park is also home to incredible trails and campsites, and is open year-round. In the winter, Arrowhead Provincial Park is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while in the summer, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and hiking.
We highly suggest a visit to Stubb’s Falls in Arrowhead Provincial Park for anyone looking for an authentic Muskoka waterfall you can swim in and hike to.
Bracebridge Falls
đź“Ť21 Entrance Drive, Bracebridge, ON
If you’ve visited the quaint town of Bracebridge, you’ll know that Bracebridge Falls and the adjacent Bracebridge Bay Trail is the highlight and centrepiece of this town. While the dam at this falls contrasts a bit with the natural beauty of the falls, it’s hard to deny that this is still a peaceful and eye-catching spot.
The bouldering dark rocks that make up Bracebridge Falls remind you that you’ve just entered the Canadian Shield, and the picturesque site of the Muskoka River calls you to get out and explore the nature around you.
If you’re traveling to Muskoka, a stop at Bracebridge Falls is a great addition to your trip. You can make a quick stop for some photos and a look out over the water, or spend some time exploring the 1.3 km Bracebridge Bay Trail that leads you by unique artwork and informative plaques.
Waterfalls Near Thunder Bay
The shoreline region of Lake Superior is filled with incredible natural rock formations – from the spectacular Kakabeka Falls to the ice caves of the winter, to the unique Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Upper Michigan. Here’s a look at two of the best waterfalls close to Thunder Bay that will leave you awe-struck by the beauty of Ontario’s natural landscapes.
Kakabeka Falls
đź“ŤKakabeka Falls Provincial Park, ON
If you’ve ever wondered which Ontario waterfall rivals Niagara Falls the most, the answer is Kakabeka Falls, located just 30 minutes west of Thunder Bay. Affectionately called the “Niagara Falls of the North”, this 130 foot (40 meter) tall plunge waterfall is an impressive sight to behold.
While the falls are located in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, you can see the falls from the side of the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 11/17). There’s a parking lot very close to the falls, making this site wheelchair accessible at the lookouts and along the Boardwalk Trail that circles the falls.
And unlike Niagara Falls, Kakabeka Falls is located so far away from the majority of Ontario’s population that chances are very low that you’ll have to contend with crowds of visitors. Hike the trails in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, and even spend the night camping, and make the most of Ontario’s second tallest waterfall.
High Falls, Pigeon River
đź“ŤHigh Falls Trail, South Gillies, ON
Located right along the Canada-USA border in Pigeon River Provincial Park, High Falls is a breathtaking 120-foot-tall waterfall that plummets into a deep pool and gorge below. While it may not be Ontario’s most famous trans-national waterfall (Niagara Falls), it may be the most serene and unique one you’ll find along the border.
The falls are reached by way of a 2 km loop trail in the Provincial Park. Another trial leads to the smaller Middle Falls (which is only 6 meters tall). The views from the Canadian side are spectacular, and the trails allow you to get quite close to the top of the falls.
The views from the other side of Pigeon River, the American side are different, but still beautiful. The trail to the falls on this side of the river are shorter, and there tends to be more visitors here than on the Canadian side.
Other Beautiful Ontario Waterfalls
With over 400 waterfalls in Ontario, it would be impossible to highlight each one in one post. Here’s a list of a few others that are known for their beauty that we recommend checking out.
- Indian Falls
- Jones Falls
- Louth Falls
- Rockway Falls
- Hilton Falls
- Beamers Falls
- Chedoke Falls
- Cataract Falls
- Boers Falls
- Smokey Hollow Falls
- Smokey Hollows Falls
- Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
- Indian Falls
- Sauble Falls
- Rosseau Falls
- Fountain Falls
- Magpie Falls
- Hatchery Falls
- Eau Claire Gorge
- Chutes Provincial Park
- Denison Falls
- Rushing River
- Rainbow Falls
- Whitefish Falls
- Raleigh Falls
- Kap-Kig-Iwan Provincial Park
- Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park
- Middle Silver Falls
- Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls Provincial Park
- Mazukama Falls
- Aubrey Falls
- High Falls, Algonquin Provincial Park
Ontario Waterfalls FAQs
While we’ve aimed to provide enough information to help you see some of the best waterfalls of Ontario, let’s dive into some of the most common questions you might also be wondering.
How many waterfalls are there in Ontario?
There are over 400 waterfalls in Ontario, most of which are found along the Niagara Escarpment. There are over 150 waterfalls in the City of Hamilton alone, earning it the title of Waterfall Capital of the World! It’s hard to know exactly how many waterfalls are in Ontario, since so much of Northern Ontario is undeveloped.
Where are the most waterfalls in Ontario?
The most waterfalls in Ontario can be found in the Hamilton area. There are over 150 waterfalls in the Hamilton region alone, plus many more in the nearby St Catharines and Niagara regions. Many of Hamilton’s waterfalls are easily accessible and are located along popular hiking trails.
What is the biggest waterfall in Ontario?
The biggest waterfall in Ontario is the iconic natural wonder of Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is actually composed of three separate waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls (the largest), the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls, also known as the Canadian Falls, has a height of 57 meters (187 feet) and a width of 670 meters (2,000 feet).
What is the second biggest waterfall in Ontario?
The second biggest waterfall in Ontario is the Kakabeka Falls. It is located on the Kaministiquia River, approximately 30 kilometers west of Thunder Bay in northerwestern Ontario. The waterfall has a height of 40 meters (131 feet), and is also known as “Niagara of the North” because of its size and popularity among visitors to Ontario’s North.
Is parking free at Hamilton waterfalls?
Some of the waterfalls in Hamilton can be accessed from free parking, while others require admission fees. Many of Hamilton’s waterfalls are on land regulated by the Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA). Parking fees often apply on HCA sites. Consider purchasing an HCA Membership Pass if you plan on visiting multiple HCA sites often.
Wrap Up: Waterfalls in Ontario
Ontario is filled with incredible waterfalls all across the province – from the towering heights of Kakabeka Falls, to the natural wonder of Niagara Falls, to the hidden gems of Rock Glen Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Many of the waterfalls throughout Ontario are located in the Hamilton/Niagara Region, but many more are scattered throughout the rest of the province, either along the Niagara Escarpment, or in the Canadian Shield. Wherever your waterfall chasing takes you, we hope you enjoy each discovery as much as we do!
Erie is the owner and author of Everywhere Ontario. She’s lived and traveled around Ontario for over 30 years, visiting small towns and big cities from the shores of Lake Erie to the crisp northern air of Hearst along the Trans-Canada Highway. She is passionate about maximizing fun and supporting local tourist businesses and is always looking to provide the best recommendations to her fellow Ontario travelers. Read more about Erie here.