Flinton Dam / Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.2 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Flinton Dam / Falls
Flinton Dam / Falls is a small scenic cascade and dam structure on Flinton Creek near the village of Flinton in southeastern Ontario. The site features a compact series of drops and a man-made dam that concentrate flow into a picturesque pool and rocky gorge. The area is popular with local visitors for photography, short walks, and seasonal viewing (not a large commercial or highly developed park). Access is generally from a small roadside parking area and a short walk to the falls; facilities are minimal or absent.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Flinton Dam / Falls flows over Flinton Group, a dense iron-rich rock layer deposited about 539 million to 1.6 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Flinton Dam / Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Access from the roadside parking area is usually a short, informal path down to the creek and viewing points near the dam and falls. Trails are not highly developed, expect uneven ground, exposed roots, and rock steps. There may be short unmarked desire lines to multiple vantage points; avoid climbing on wet rock near the edge of the dam.
What to Expect
A small, attractive cascade and dam with exposed bedrock and forested surroundings. Flow can vary considerably by season, high in spring runoff and after heavy rain, lower in late summer. There are limited or no facilities (no restrooms, visitor center, or formal boardwalk). Expect mud, slippery rock, and limited barriers near the water’s edge. Cell reception may be spotty depending on your provider.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Flinton Dam / Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Flinton Dam / Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late March–May) for higher water flows and dramatic falls; fall for colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summer can be pleasant but flows may be lower. Winter can produce attractive ice formations but is more hazardous due to ice and limited access, only visit if you are prepared for winter conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery wet rocks, unstable banks, strong currents near the dam, sudden water level changes after rain, and cold water temperatures. Do not climb on the dam or lean over edges. Watch children closely. In winter, ice can be thin and dangerous, avoid walking on frozen areas unless safety is verified. Cell reception may be poor; bring a map and tell someone your plans. Observe local signage and any posted warnings.
Current Water Conditions
1.1 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 38 years of record
8.45 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Belleville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 44.6932, -77.2122. From Belleville (approximately 33 miles) or Kingston (approximately 46.5 miles) drive to the Flinton area on local roads; the falls are adjacent to the village of Flinton. There is typically a small roadside parking/turnout on the nearest local road; follow local signage or small access trails down to the creek. Use a mapping app and the coordinates to locate the exact pullout.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking/turnout near the access point. Expect a small gravel or paved pullout rather than a large lot. Park legally and avoid blocking driveways or narrow shoulders.
Elevation
257 metres above sea level
Coordinates
44.693203° N, -77.212221° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Keep a safe distance from the dam edge and wet rocks. Bring insect repellent in warm months and check for ticks after your visit. If parking is tight, be courteous to local residents and avoid blocking lanes. There are likely no trash or restroom facilities, pack out what you bring in. Check local weather and flow conditions; avoid the area during high water or ice breakup.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Bishop Lake Tent & Trailer Park
11.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Village of Flinton, rural backroads and countryside; Belleville and Kingston are the nearest larger towns for services. There are multiple provincial parks and conservation areas in the broader region, check local maps for Bon Echo, Frontenac, and other nearby outdoor destinations, but verify exact distances before planning.
Wildlife
Typical southeastern Ontario species: white-tailed deer, raccoons, squirrels, various songbirds, waterfowl, beaver and other small mammals. Black bears are present in parts of rural Ontario, store food securely and be bear-aware in backcountry settings.
Cities near Flinton Dam / Falls
Writing about Flinton Dam / Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.