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10 Best Waterfalls in Ontario: Explore the Liquid Jewels

10 Best Waterfalls in Ontario: Explore the Liquid Jewels

Nothing is more exciting for adventurers than visiting wonderful cascades in different locations. Each one has a long story to tell, waiting for visitors to hear. If you are into these natural wonders, it’s time to discover some of the best waterfalls in Ontario. 

Undoubtedly, waterfalls can be one of the top places to visit in Ontario in summer. You can experience cool weather with splashes of waterfalls on your face that can make you feel alive. 

Get ready to explore the Ontario waterfalls. 

Best Waterfalls in Ontario 

Here is the list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ontario. 

1. Niagara Falls

It’s no surprise that Niagara Falls is on the list of the best waterfalls in Ontario. It’s the most famous and iconic waterfall not only in Ontario but also in the world. It offers breathtaking views on the border of the US and Canada.

Niagara Falls is on the list of must-see attractions in Canada. Fortunately, getting to this location is easy. It’s one of the small towns near Toronto, and visitors to this city can easily get to Niagara Falls from Toronto using a train or bus. 

For those seeking a luxurious stay, many high-end hotels are nestled near this natural wonder, offering stunning views of the falls. Therefore, if you’re planning a visit to Niagara, there’s no shortage of great Niagara Falls hotels to choose from. 

2. Kakabeka Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the North,” Kakabeka Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Ontario at 40 meters tall. It is located within the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park in Thunder Bay. Since getting to this cascade requires passing the vast park, it is considered one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls. 

There is a bridge over the cascade, making an incredible viewpoint from which visitors can capture wonderful pictures of the waterfalls. Furthermore, Kakabeka Falls freezes during winter and becomes another eye-catching attraction in Ontario in winter.

3. Inglis Falls

This beautiful 18-meter plunge waterfall is located in the Inglis Falls Conservation Area in Grey County. With various trail options, Inglis Falls is a popular choice among hikers. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the falls all the way to this trail.

Furthermore, you can see the remnants of the 19th and early 20th-century milling industry while hiking the trails and exploring the Inglis Falls Conservation Area. This waterfall is almost 3 hours drive from Toronto. Thus, you can quickly get there on a one-day trip from Toronto.

You should note that swimming is strictly prohibited at Inglis Falls Conservation Area.

4. Albion Falls

Standing at 20 meters tall, Albion Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Hamilton area. It’s an impressive complex cascade with a width of 10 meters that is accessible via the Escarpment Rail Trail. Thus, it’s another waterfall in Ontario with hiking trails. 

Furthermore, the area has a reputation for being haunted. Accordingly, walking the trails at night or in the dark is not recommended. However, that’s mostly due to the dangerous road. 

Meanwhile, Albion Falls is one of the must-see natural attractions in the Hamilton area and one of the most popular waterfalls in Ontario. 

best waterfalls in ontario: Albion Falls

5. Hilton Falls

Located in the Hilton Falls Conservation Area near Milton, Ontario, Hilton Falls is a stunning waterfall cascading down a rocky escarpment. It creates a picturesque scene that is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Surrounded by dense forest and meandering hiking trails, Hilton Falls offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Hilton Falls area is a dreamy place for hikers. However, you should note that an admission fee is charged to enter the Hilton Falls Conservation Area.

6. Bridal Veil Falls

Situated along the Kagawong River, Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ontario. The waterfall is 10 meters tall and cascades down a limestone cliff, resembling the delicate flow of a bridal veil, hence its name. 

Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, Bridal Veil Falls offers a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy. Additionally, its crystal clear water makes this area a safe and great place for swimming in summer. 

bridal veil waterfall in Ontario

7. High Falls (Algonquin Park)

Like most of the top waterfalls in Ontario, High Falls is also known for its natural water slide and scenic hiking trails. This powerful waterfall is located in Algonquin Provincial Park and can be used as a natural waterslide in summer.

The High Falls water slide is a natural rock slide on the Barron River, offering a thrilling experience for visitors. 

Furthermore, there are several campsites near the falls, making it possible for the visitors to stay the night at the park and sleep with the pleasant sound of waterfalls. The park is almost a 3-hour drive from Toronto and Ottawa. Therefore, it can be an amazing location for camping near Toronto

8. Smokey Hollow Falls

It is the only waterfall on the list with several names. Smokey Hollow Falls, also known as Waterdown Falls, Grindstone Falls, or Great Falls, is a picturesque 10-meter ribbon waterfall located in Waterdown, Ontario, near Hamilton. 

Since the waterfall is located along the Bruce Trail in the Waterdown area, it offers scenic hiking opportunities for hikers and a wonderful viewpoint for visitors who want to admire the cascading waters from various vantage points.

9. Ball’s Falls

The Ball’s Falls is a conservation area located in Lincoln, Ontario, Canada. The area features two waterfalls on Twenty Mile Creek: the upper falls, which are 35 feet (10.7 m) high, and the lower falls, which are 90 feet (27.4 m) high.

Some popular attractions besides the waterfalls include nature trails, 19th-century mill ruins, and a historic apple orchard. For visitors, additional activities include scenic bike rides and viewing wildlife.

top waterfalls in Ontario Balls' Fall

10. Decew Falls

Known for its historical significance and natural beauty, Decew Falls is a wide 22-meter waterfall located in the St. Catharines area, part of the Niagara Escarpment. It consists of two main waterfalls: Upper DeCew Falls (20-meter ribbon plunge waterfall) and Lower DeCew Falls (an 8-meter classical cascade waterfall.)

At the top of Upper DeCew Falls is a historic grist mill. Built in 1872, the Morningstar Mill is one of the attractions around this waterfall, which once served as a headquarters for British forces during the War of 1812. 

In addition, DeCew Falls can be visited year-round, with winter offering a magical experience with ice formations. 

Bottom Line 

As mentioned in this article, Ontario has several waterfalls, each with its own history and beauty. Visiting waterfalls in Ontario will be an unforgettable adventure for everyone, especially hikers who would like to spend a day alongside water and explore nature. 

FAQs

#1 How Many Waterfalls in Ontario?

Ontario has over 400 waterfalls, making it a paradise for waterfall enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From small, hidden gems to large, powerful cascades, Ontario’s diverse landscape offers a wide range of waterfalls to explore and enjoy.

#2 Are There Any Waterfalls in Ontario Where You Can Swim?

You can find several Ontario waterfalls where swimming is allowed. However, it is still recommended to exercise caution when swimming or sliding as some areas might be slippery so you should be more careful. The following areas are safe for swimming: 

  • Bridal Veil Falls,
  • White’s Falls,
  • High Park,
  • Blue Lake.

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