Little Falls
Ontario • 7 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
15 m
About Little Falls
Little Falls is one of Hamilton’s many scenic drops tucked into the Niagara Escarpment, the same internationally recognized escarpment that runs from Tobermory to Niagara Falls. Like many of the city’s cascades, Little Falls offers an intimate viewing experience: narrow ledges, forested slopes, and a short approach make it an excellent stop for hikers and photographers exploring the escarpment’s geology and waterways. The Bruce Trail runs through much of the escarpment area, and Little Falls sits near sections of that long-distance footpath, making it easy to combine this stop with other nearby waterfalls. This is a very short outing, roughly 0.6 miles round-trip with about 50 feet of elevation gain, and the trailhead is drive-up accessible, so it’s a popular pick for a quick nature break. Expect a lightly maintained forest route that rewards a brief walk with a close-up view of the cascade and the surrounding hardwoods.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 168 metres in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 7 metres.
Height: 23 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Tiffany Falls (21 m) lies 0.6 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Sherman Falls (17 m, 0.6 km) and Ancaster Heights Falls (13 m, 0.2 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Little Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Expect a relatively short out-and-back route through mixed hardwood forest with roots and occasional rocks underfoot. The path may be narrow and only lightly maintained in sections. The approach usually descends into a small stream valley to a viewpoint above or slightly downstream from the falls. There may not be formal boardwalks, steps, or railings, and the final approach to the water can be steep and slippery when wet or icy.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 7 metres.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late March through May) and early summer for highest water flow. Fall offers good color and generally pleasant hiking weather. Winter can produce ice formations but is more hazardous due to ice and limited trail maintenance.
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 wet banks are common, stay off exposed rock near the water. • Falls can surge after heavy rain; avoid entering the water during or immediately after heavy precipitation. • There may be no lifeguards or emergency services at the immediate site, carry a charged phone and tell someone your plans. • Watch for poison ivy and ticks; check for ticks after visits. • Seasonal ice can create attractive but dangerous conditions, ice near waterfalls is often unstable. • If trail conditions are unclear or the site is unmarked, err on the side of caution and avoid risky terrain.
Current Water Conditions
0.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
0.12 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Hamilton 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 lie roughly 5–6 miles west/southwest of Hamilton (as the crow flies) and are also within driving distance of Kitchener (~31–32 miles) and Orangeville (~38–39 miles). Use the provided coordinates (43.2395, -79.9656) in a GPS or mapping app to locate the trailhead or nearest access point. Access is typically via local roads and a short walk from a roadside parking area or small conservation authority lot; exact access routes and nearest parking may vary and are not consistently signed.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely limited to a small lot or roadside pull-off. Expect unpaved or informal parking; park legally and clear of driveways. If the site is on conservation-authority land there may be a small maintained lot, but visitors should verify local parking rules before arriving.
Elevation
168 metres above sea level
Coordinates
43.239513° N, -79.965569° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check recent visitor reports or the local conservation authority for up-to-date access information and parking locations. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; rocks and banks near the falls are slippery. • Be cautious near edges; avoid climbing on wet rocks. • Bring insect repellent in warm months, ticks can be present. • Pack out everything you bring in; carry a small trash bag. • If you plan to visit in winter, expect icy or snowy conditions and limited maintenance; traction aids are recommended.
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For this easy 1.0 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
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
Lost Forest Park & Camping Resort
16.2 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Hamilton area is well known for many waterfalls and conservation areas; nearby attractions may include other local falls, conservation trails, and parks. Confirm exact nearby sites and distances before planning a multi-stop visit.
Wildlife
Typical southern Ontario woodland wildlife: songbirds, squirrels, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and small mammals. Ticks and biting insects can be present in warm months. Aquatic wildlife in small streams may include frogs and common stream invertebrates.
Cities near Little Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
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