Lower Ball's Falls
Ontario • 27 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
24 m
About Lower Ball's Falls
Lower Ball's Falls is one of two preserved waterfalls at Ball's Falls Conservation Area in the Niagara Peninsula, Ontario. The falls drop over the Niagara Escarpment into a wooded gorge and are reached via short, maintained trails and viewing platforms. The site includes interpretive signage and remnants of 19th-century village structures nearby. Water flow is typically highest in spring and after heavy rain; winter can produce dramatic ice formations but may be hazardous.
The Setting
Lower Ball's Falls sits at 146 metres in the coastal lowlands of Ontario. The falls drop 27 metres.
Height: 88 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Upper Ball's Falls (11 m) lies 0.8 kilometres to the south. Also nearby: Louth Falls (7 m, 2.9 km) and Lower Rockway Falls (2 m, 5.6 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km out-and-back trail gains 24 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trails to Lower Ball's Falls are short and well-marked, with maintained footpaths, boardwalks and viewing platforms in places. The route descends into the gorge to viewpoints above and partway down the falls; stone steps and compacted paths are common. Trails link to the Upper Falls and the historic village area. Surfaces can be uneven, muddy after rain, and include stairs, expect a short downhill return on the way back.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 27 metres.
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 Lower Ball's Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Ball's Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for higher flows and wildflowers; fall for foliage and cooler weather. Summer is pleasant for easy access but can be busier. Winter offers unique ice features but brings hazards (ice, closed sections), only visit if prepared and check 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 or icy rocks, steep drop-offs, fast-moving water, unstable edges and falling rock in some areas. Stay on designated trails and viewing platforms, supervise children closely, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid the water. Trail/area closures can occur after storms or during freeze-thaw conditions, always verify current conditions with NPCA before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
0.5 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 68 years of record
5.62 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 Hamilton hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Ball's Falls is located in Ball's Falls Conservation Area (Town of Lincoln), near the village of Jordan in the Niagara region of Ontario. From the QEW use local exits toward Jordan/Winona and follow signs to Ball's Falls Conservation Area. The site is within driving distance of Niagara Falls (approx. 17–18 miles) and Niagara University (approx. 15 miles). Use the park entrance/visitor parking indicated by NPCA signage; GPS coordinates near the falls: 43.1344, -79.3838.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area for Ball's Falls Conservation Area managed by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA). Parking logistics, fees, and capacity may change seasonally, check the NPCA website before visiting. Expect a short walk from the lot to the main trails and viewing platforms.
Elevation
146 metres above sea level
Coordinates
43.134373° N, -79.383781° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check the NPCA/Ball's Falls website for current hours, parking fees, and any trail closures before you go. • Wear sturdy shoes with good traction; paths can be muddy or icy. • Stay on marked trails and viewing platforms, edges and rocks are slippery and there are steep drop-offs. • Pack insect repellent in summer and dress in layers in shoulder seasons. • Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds and find parking. • Drones, fires, and off-trail access to sensitive historical features may be restricted, confirm NPCA rules beforehand.
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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.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Shangri-La Family Campground
2.4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Upper Ball's Falls (within the same conservation area), Jordan Village (wineries/shops), vineyards and wine routes of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Short Hills Provincial Park, the broader Niagara Falls area.
Wildlife
Expect typical southern Ontario woodland wildlife: songbirds, small mammals (squirrels, raccoons), white-tailed deer, and occasional coyotes. Ticks can be present, take appropriate precautions. Do not feed wildlife and store food securely.
Cities near Lower Ball's Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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