Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
6 m
About Jones Falls
Jones Falls is a small, scenic waterfall located near Owen Sound in southern Georgian Bay country of Ontario. The falls sit in a mixed hardwood forest and are most notable for a short scenic viewing area and seasonal flow changes, higher in spring and after heavy rain, lower in late summer. Specific features (exact drop height and number of tiers) vary by source and may be modest compared with larger regional falls.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.3-km out-and-back trail gains 6 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The approach to Jones Falls is typically a short, well-defined footpath through mixed forest. Expect a brief descent to a viewing area near the stream with rock ledges and possibly a small wooden or natural vantage point. Trails are generally short and suitable for most visitors, though they may be steep or slippery immediately adjacent to the water.
What to Expect
A modest waterfall best viewed from a short, informal viewpoint. Flow is highest in spring and after rain. Trails are wooded and may be muddy or icy depending on season. There are likely limited facilities (no formal restrooms or visitor centre). Rock ledges near the water can be slippery; no guaranteed safety railings.
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 Jones Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Jones Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for highest flows and dramatic water; fall for foliage color. Summer is good for easy access but may have lower flow. Winter can offer ice formations but is more hazardous and requires traction aids.
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 surfaces, steep or unstable banks near the water, variable flow after rain, and cold water. Do not climb on wet ledges or enter fast-moving water. Children should be supervised closely. Check trail conditions before visiting and use caution in winter when ice can be thin or surfaces extremely slippery.
Current Water Conditions
1.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 90 years of record
4.97 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 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
The falls are located near Owen Sound (approx. 6.1 miles), with coordinates 44.5592, -80.9853. Access is typically by car via local roads off the nearest highway; expect a short walk from a roadside or small parking area. From Owen Sound, follow local signage or mapping apps to the coordinates and park where permitted.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside or small informal parking is typical. There may be a small parking area or pullout; do not block driveways or gated access. Parking availability can be limited on busy days.
Elevation
242 metres above sea level
Coordinates
44.559239° N, -80.985312° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear with good traction. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas; avoid climbing on wet rocks. Check recent visitor reports or local park/municipal pages for access updates. Bring insect repellent in summer and be tick-aware. If visiting in winter, expect icy surfaces and dress for cold conditions.
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For this easy 0.3 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
Kelso Campground
3.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Owen Sound (town amenities), Inglis Falls (larger, established waterfall and conservation area nearby), Bruce Trail sections and other regional hiking opportunities. Wiarton is also within driving distance for additional regional attractions.
Wildlife
Typical southern Ontario species: white-tailed deer, raccoons, small mammals, songbirds, and seasonal mosquitoes and ticks. Be aware of insects in warm months.
Cities near Jones Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Jones Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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