Epic Ontario trail leads to a stunning waterfall just a little shorter than Niagara

The weather may be getting cooler but it’s still warm enough to check out some waterfalls! Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is located on the Niagara Escarpment in Ontario, a spot with trails, a forested gorge and towering waterfalls with viewing platforms.

The conservation area is just a one-hour drive from Toronto, making it a perfect day-trip destination.

Here’s what to expect while visiting.

Getting to Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

If you live in Toronto or the GTA, getting to the park is a one-hour drive, located in Dundas, Ontario.

Once you arrive you will have the option to park at one of the parking lots but just note that they operate on a first-come-first-serve basis and autumn is a busy time of year, so plan accordingly.

Entrance fees cost $16.00 per vehicle and driver, $5.00 per passenger over age five or $5.00 per person on a bike/walking in.

Exploring

The first of the two waterfalls you’ll want to check out is Webster Falls. As you approach the falls from the nearby parking lot, you’re in for a beautiful walk and even more beautiful sights.

There are two lookouts at Webster Falls. The first lookout boasts a view down into the gorge and a close-up of the falls with the lookout surrounded by stone walls.

Now you can make your way across the restored cobblestone bridge that crosses Spencer Creek! The bridge was originally built in 1936 but was repaired and reopened on July 1st, 2000.

Once over the bridge, you will continue your hike uphill the Dobson McKee lookout. This accessible lookout gives you a complete view of Webster Falls and is a perfect spot to take some photos.

Up next – Tews Falls and Dundas Peak.

Tews Falls is just off the Bruce Trail and is just a few metres less in height than Niagara Falls!

According to Conservation Hamilton, ‘The gorge at Tew Falls is 41 metres (134.5 feet) tall while The Horseshoe Falls measures 52 metres (170 feet) tall.”

There are two platforms just off the trail, giving anyone who stops a gorgeous view of the falls and the forested gorge below.

The view from Dundas Peak will be well worth the walking. Continue along the trail and you’ll find Dundas Peak at the mouth of the Spencer Gorge. If the weather is clear you can see Hamilton Harbour, Dundas and Ancaster in the distance!

Will you be visiting this spectacular spot, Ontario?

Spencer Gorge Conservation Area Ontario

Where: Harvest Rd, Dundas, ON

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