Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
8 m
About Hoggs Falls
Hoggs Falls is a modest roadside/park waterfall in southern Ontario, located in the Grey County region northwest of Toronto and reasonably close to Owen Sound. The falls are a local scenic spot popular for short visits and photography. Flow and appearance vary seasonally, highest flows are typically in spring and after heavy rain, and the falls may form ice features in winter. Specific facility details and exact measurements vary across sources, so some particulars below are conservatively reported.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Stew Hilts Falls (9 m) lies 2.6 kilometres to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.5-km out-and-back trail gains 8 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Access to Hoggs Falls is generally a short walk from a nearby parking area or pullover. The trail may be unpaved, include short stairs or rock steps, and lead to one or more viewpoints above or beside the cascade. Trails are typically short and suitable for most visitors, but expect uneven footing, exposed roots and potentially muddy sections after rain.
What to Expect
A small to moderate cascade over local bedrock with variable flow depending on season. Expect limited facilities, there may be a small parking area and informal viewpoints but not always washrooms or staffed services. In spring and after heavy rain the flow is strongest; in summer flows can be lower. Winter can produce ice formations but also creates slipping hazards.
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 Hoggs Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hoggs Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for highest flows and lush scenery; fall for foliage color and pleasant temperatures. Winter offers ice formations but can be icy and hazardous, only attempt winter visits with appropriate traction devices and caution.
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
• Slippery rocks and muddy trails; wear appropriate footwear. • Unstable or undercut edges near the water, stay back from cliff edges. • Fast flows after rain can increase hazard, avoid getting close to the flow during high water. • Cold water and submerged hazards make swimming risky. • Winter ice can look stable but may be thin or breakable; use extreme caution and traction devices. • Ticks and poison ivy may be present in warmer months, check for ticks after visiting. • Limited or no lifeguards or emergency services on-site; cell coverage may be unreliable in rural areas.
Current Water Conditions
4.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
7.24 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Owen Sound hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 44.2868, -80.5441. The falls are reached via local roads in Grey County; the nearest larger centres are Owen Sound (~26.6 miles), Orangeville (~37.0 miles) and Barrie (~40.4 miles). Use the coordinates in a mapping app for the most direct driving directions. Local signage and small parking areas typically mark the access point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small roadside or small parking area close to the trailhead/viewpoint. Parking may be limited and could be unpaved, pull well off the road and avoid blocking driveways or gates. Use caution entering/exiting on narrow rural roads.
Elevation
402 metres above sea level
Coordinates
44.286814° N, -80.544078° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; rocks and paths can be slippery. • Watch children closely near edges and water. • No guaranteed facilities (restrooms, water), bring what you need. • Cell coverage may be spotty; tell someone your plans if heading into quieter areas. • Leave no trace: pack out garbage and avoid disturbing vegetation or rock features. • Check local signage for any seasonal restrictions or safety notices before visiting.
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For this easy 0.5 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
Mythwood Campground
19 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The falls sit in the broader Grey County / Owen Sound region which offers many outdoor attractions (other local waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and rural parks). Use Owen Sound or nearby towns as bases to explore additional waterfalls and escarpment features, check local tourism resources for confirmed nearby sites.
Wildlife
Typical southern Ontario wildlife may be encountered: songbirds, waterfowl, white-tailed deer, small mammals, and insects. Be aware of ticks in warm months and take appropriate precautions.
Cities near Hoggs Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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