Hog's Back Falls
Ontario • 18 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.4 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
30 m
About Hog's Back Falls
The Hog's Back Falls, officially known as the Prince of Wales Falls, but rarely referred to by this name, are a series of artificial waterfalls on the Rideau River in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The falls are located just north of Mooney's Bay and the point where the Rideau Canal splits from the Rideau River.
The Setting
Hog's Back Falls sits at 70 metres in the coastal lowlands of Ontario. The falls drop 18 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Hog's Back Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 252-539 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 60-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.4-km loop trail gains 30 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Very short paved and compacted-gravel paths connect the parking area and picnic sites to multiple viewing platforms and a bridge that overlooks the falls and canal structures. Expect a few short flights of steps at some viewpoints and an informal shoreline in places. Trails are suitable for a short loop or out-and-back visit; surfaces may be wet and slippery after rain or during freeze-thaw periods.
What to Expect
The falls drop 18 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hog's Back Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hog's Back Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for higher flows and dramatic water; fall for colorful foliage and cooler conditions; summer for warm weather and picnics; winter for frozen scenery and ice formations (but be cautious of thin ice and icy trails). Early morning or weekday visits avoid the largest crowds.
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 rock and boardwalk surfaces, steep banks, strong currents around the dam/spillway, and thin ice or unstable ice edges in winter. Stay on designated trails and behind barriers, supervise children at all times, and do not enter the water. During high water events or maintenance operations, access may be restricted, observe posted signs.
Current Water Conditions
12.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
2.75 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Ottawa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Hog's Back Falls is located in Hog's Back Park, near the intersection of Prince of Wales Drive and Hog's Back Road, just a few kilometres south of downtown Ottawa (approx. 2.4 miles). From Ottawa, drive south on Prince of Wales Drive. The area is also reachable by the Rideau River multi-use pathways and by bicycle.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small municipal parking area for Hog's Back Park near the falls. Parking is limited during peak times (weekends/summer). Verify current parking rules with the City of Ottawa, some lots may be seasonal or enforced.
Elevation
70 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.371216° N, -75.696896° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Stay behind railings and designated viewpoints, banks and rocks are slippery and current is strong. 2) Parking can fill on warm weekends; arrive early. 3) Bring layered clothing, wind off the river can be cool. 4) Insect repellent for summer months. 5) Keep dogs on leash and supervise children closely near the water. 6) Check City of Ottawa for any temporary closures or maintenance.
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For this easy 1.4 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
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Nearby Campground
Rideau Heights Campground
3.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Rideau Canal system, Hog's Back Park picnic areas, Rideau River multi-use pathways, Mooney's Bay (a short drive away), cycling routes along the Rideau waterfront.
Wildlife
Common urban/wetland wildlife includes waterfowl (ducks, geese), songbirds, and occasional beavers or muskrats. Small mammals and typical park birds may be seen; exercise normal caution and do not feed wildlife.
Cities near Hog's Back Falls
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