Within the GTA, you can find over 100 waterfalls to admire, hike to, and explore. While we didn’t want to overwhelm you, we narrowed it down to 7 of our absolute favorites. From cascading falls to crescent-shaped titans and ones that fall into a stream or pool, these are 7 breathtaking waterfalls in Toronto that are worth the drive. Lace up those hiking shoes, grab your backpack, and hit the road this summer.
1. Webster Falls
The largest in the region and one of the coolest, Webster Falls is located in the historic village of Dundas–which means you can take a quick hike through the conservatory for extra nature-trekking. The falls follow a classic crescent-shape that cascades over a pier into a pool below. If visiting on the weekend between now and September, an online reservation is needed since the area can get quite busy. P.S. Don’t miss the beautifully-restored cobblestone bridge that crosses Spencer Creek.
2. Canterbury Falls
A terraced ribbon cascade that’s 9.5 metres high, Canterbury Falls is located on Canterbury Creek, which is a tributary of the Sulphur Creek. While these falls are continuously flowing all year long, you’ll get to see them best when it’s summer so we’d recommend hopping in your car and hitting the road this season. To get there take the Canterbury Falls Side Trail from the Bruce Trail. There is an HCA parking lot on Merrick Lane. The entrance gate is at the east end of Lion’s Club Road. Parking costs $10.
3. Albion Falls
Voted as the regions prettiest by City of Waterfalls, Albion Falls is in the Hamilton region which is just a short drive outside of Toronto. The waterfall flows over tiered steps underneath it, giving it a lovely cascade appearance that keeps visitors and locals alike coming back again and again each year. As far as waterfalls near Toronto go, this one should definitely top off your list. Follow the Mountain Brow Side Trail for a lookout in which you can view the falls, as the falls itself are closed off to visitors, but don’t let that deter you.
4. Tews Falls
Tews Falls can be considered a close cousin to Webster Falls as they are both in similar areas. One of the tallest in Hamilton, Tews is a ribbon waterfall 41 metres in height with Logie’s Creek as its source. The falls also mark the beginning of an uphill forested hike towards Dundas Peak with stunning valley views, so don’t skimp out on getting your steps in. It’s also important to remember that there is currently no access to the bottom of the falls, but you can check here to keep up with the latest news.
5. Devil’s Punchbowl
Apart of Niagara’s Escarpment’s, Devil’s Punchbowl is exactly how it sounds. A huge bowl that has ribbon waterfalls cascading down and with gorgeous rock striations. While you’ll have to pay a small admission fee since this waterfall near Toronto is in a conservation area, this sight dating back to the Ice Age is worth it. To reach the Devil’s Punchbowl via a walking trail, take the Stoney Creek section of the Bruce Trail or the Dofasco 2000 Trail.
6. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls likely doesn’t need an introduction, but what waterfall list would be complete with out it? Bordering between Canada and New York, Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls at the southend of Niagara Gorge with a vertical drop of 50 metres.. The largest of the three is Horseshoe Falls.
7. Chedoke Falls
This waterfall near Toronto stand at 18 metres high and 9 metres in crest and luckily it experiences flow year-round. Chedoke is a ribbon waterfall that is located at the east branch of the Chedoke Creek.