Sherman Falls
Ontario • 17 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
30 m
About Sherman Falls
Sherman Falls is a charming 55-foot cascade set within the same Niagara Escarpment landscape that gives Hamilton its reputation for waterfalls and cascades. The escarpment’s layered bedrock creates the conditions for reliable drops like Sherman, making it a popular short outing for locals and visitors who want a quick nature fix without a long backcountry trek. Many of the region’s falls sit on or near the Bruce Trail as the footpath threads the escarpment, and Sherman is enjoyed for its approachable scale and scenic streamside setting. Access to the fall is quick and family-friendly: the hike to the viewpoint is an easy, out-and-back stroll of roughly 0.6 miles with about 98 feet of elevation change. The short route and modest drop make Sherman Falls a nice stop on a half-day walk or a photo-focused outing, especially when flows are high in spring or after rain. Expect a compact, well-used trail that rewards a little care on uneven or rocky sections as you descend to the stream and step out to viewing spots.
The Setting
Sherman Falls sits at 187 metres in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 17 metres.
Height: 55 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Old Dundas Road Falls (7 m) lies 0.3 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Little Falls (7 m, 0.6 km) and Lower Mill Falls (6 m, 0.5 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km out-and-back trail gains 30 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short, mostly direct trail leads from the parking area to the waterfall. The path is typically well-trodden but can be uneven, rooty and rocky in places; there may be short stair sections or rocky steps near the fall. Expect a brief descent toward the stream and a short scramble to reach viewing points. Trails and viewpoints can be narrow; stay on marked trails and behind barriers where present.
What to Expect
The falls drop 17 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 Sherman Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sherman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late winter/early spring for high flows, early fall for foliage and fewer crowds. Summer offers easy access but lower flows in dry periods. Winter can be very scenic if frozen, but is also the most hazardous; avoid if you are not equipped for icy 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
Primary hazards: slippery rocks and trails, unstable cliff edges, sudden changes in water flow after rain, and icy conditions in winter. Do not climb on wet rock faces or enter fenced-off areas. Supervise children closely. In winter, icy ledges can be deadly, use traction devices and avoid risky approaches. No lifeguards or rescue services on-site; cell service can be intermittent.
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
Sherman Falls is located within the Hamilton/Ancaster area (roughly 5–6 miles from central Hamilton). Use the supplied coordinates (43.2381, -79.9729) or a local map/GPS to navigate. Driving is the usual way to reach the trailhead; the final approach is via local roads and a small parking area or roadside pullout. Expect narrow local roads and limited signage.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small unstaffed parking area or roadside parking close to the trailhead. Parking can fill quickly on weekends and in peak season. No services (restrooms, water) are typically available at the lot. Obey any posted signs and local parking regulations.
Elevation
187 metres above sea level
Coordinates
43.238053° N, -79.972869° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy, grippy footwear, rocks and trails are often slick. • Park early on weekends or visit weekdays to avoid crowds. • Stay behind railings and off wet rocks; do not climb or scramble on unstable ledges. • Bring layers; temperature near water can feel cooler and spray is common. • Pack out all trash and respect posted signage and private property boundaries. • If visiting in winter, bring traction devices (crampons) and be prepared for icy paths.
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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
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Nearby Campground
circle square ranch
15.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Hamilton is known for its many accessible waterfalls; nearby falls include other popular falls in the Dundas/Hamilton region (e.g., Webster's Falls, Tew's Falls, Albion Falls). The Hamilton area also offers conservation areas, scenic lookouts, and hiking trails.
Wildlife
Typical woodland and urban-edge species: songbirds, squirrels, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and small mammals. Insects and ticks can be present in warmer months. Be mindful of wildlife and do not feed animals.
Cities near Sherman Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Sherman Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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