Chasing Waterfalls: the Ultimate Guide to the Best Waterfalls in Hamilton
It’s no secret — Hamilton, Ontario is the ‘Waterfall Capital of the World.’ Between the serene hiking trails and luscious greenery, you’ll find there are more than 100 waterfalls in Hamilton tucked behind the Niagara Escarpment. Whether you’re after a casual stroll or a three-hour hike, there are plenty of trails around for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Add these Hamilton waterfalls to your bucket list and you won’t be disappointed.
Tews Falls
Towering at 41 metres, Tews Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hamilton and stands only a few metres shorter than the beloved Niagara Falls. Located in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area on the Niagara Escarpment, the slender waterfall cascades down into the valley below and offers spectacular vistas that change with the seasons. Marvel at Tews Falls from one of the viewing platforms before embarking on an uphill forested hike towards Dundas Peak. There, you’ll be rewarded with absolutely stunning views of the Dundas Valley.
Devil’s Punchbowl Falls
The stunning natural rock formations, 10-metre high steel cross, spectacular views of Stoney Creek and Hamilton Harbour, and free-flowing water make Devil’s Punchbowl Falls one of the best waterfalls in Hamilton. Situated in the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area, the waterfall is a combination of a ribbon-shaped Upper Falls and a classical type Lower Falls, and falls 37 metres before it makes contact with the valley below.
One of the most unforgettable sights along the Niagara Escarpment, Devil’s Punch Bowl offers different attractive aspects from the top and from the bottom. Stand on the platform at the top of the falls and you’ll get a stunning view of Hamilton or trek down the short trail to get a glimpse of the basin from below.
Albion Falls
Albion Falls is easily one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Hamilton, rippling over the Niagara Escarpment in Red Hill Valley. This incredible cascade waterfall you won’t soon forget stands 18 metres wide and 19 metres tall with the water tumbling over rock that’s transformed into steps and shelves over time. Although there’s no access to the bottom, Albion Falls is visible from two viewing platforms, so you can admire the gorgeous waterfall while being surrounded by lush greenery.
If you’re after a moderate workout, park at Buttermilk Falls, a gorgeous 23-metre-high plunge waterfall, and take the Mountain Brow Side Trail towards Albion Falls. From there, continue your hike along the Bruce Trail until you reach Glendale Falls, a three-metre-high terraced classic waterfall. The best part? You can cross off three Hamilton waterfalls from your bucket list with just one adventure.
Webster’s Falls
A trek to see the waterfalls in Hamilton would be incomplete without Webster’s Falls. Standing at 22 metres tall in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, the classic plunge-style waterfall boasts one of the most beautiful vistas in the entire region. An easy walk takes you through some beautiful green space before you’re introduced to the rushing creek that plunges down over the edge and crashes into Spencer Creek. And while you’re there, don’t forget to walk across the beautifully restored cobblestone bridge.
If you’re up for a hike, there are several great trails around this Hamilton waterfall — from the Spencer Adventure route that takes you from Christie Lake to Webster’s Falls to a walk along the road that connects Webster’s Falls with Tews Falls.
Special thanks to the staff at the Comfort Inn in Hamilton, ON for their suggestions.