Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.2 km
About Slater Falls
Slater Falls is a small, forested waterfall site in central Ontario near the Orillia / Parry Sound region (coordinates approx. 45.0852, -79.1512). It appears to be a modest multi-step cascade on a local stream in a mixed forest setting. Public information about formal facilities and exact vertical drop is limited; the site may be on or adjacent to crown land or local private holdings and can experience large seasonal variation in flow (highest in spring). Visitors should be aware many online references are sparse, so details below are conservative and may be subject to local access restrictions.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Slater Falls flows over hard crystalline rock, primarily gneiss, laid down over 1.0-1.6 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Matthiasville Falls (13 m) lies 10.9 kilometres to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Slater Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Public descriptions of an established, maintained trail to Slater Falls are limited. Visitors commonly report a short walk from a nearby road through mixed forest and over uneven, sometimes muddy ground. The route may include roots, rocks and occasional short scrambling near the stream and falls. Trail markers, railings and formal viewpoints may be absent; route-finding skills and comfortable footwear are recommended.
What to Expect
Expect a relatively small, scenic cascade set in a wooded environment. Flow can be strong in spring snowmelt and reduced in late summer. There are likely no facilities (restrooms, boardwalks, picnic tables) and little or no signage. Terrain near the water will be wet and slippery; banks and ledges may be unstable. Cell coverage may be limited in parts of the area.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Slater Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Slater Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (spring melt) typically offers the highest water flow and most dramatic appearance. Fall provides good colors and cooler hiking conditions. Summer is pleasant but flows may be lower. Winter can produce ice formations that are scenic but create hazardous footing; only attempt winter visits with appropriate experience and gear.
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 may include slippery rocks and wet surfaces, unstable or undercut banks, steep drop-offs near the water, low-visibility sections of trail, seasonal high water and cold water hazards. In winter, icefall and thin ice on water create additional risks. There may be limited cell service and no emergency facilities nearby. If land is private, entry without permission could be trespassing. Always tell someone your plans, carry navigation and emergency supplies, and exercise caution near the water's edge.
Current Water Conditions
16.1 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 75 years of record
7.76 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.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Slater Falls lies in a forested area north of Orillia and south of Parry Sound (approximate coordinates 45.0852, -79.1512). Access typically requires driving on local municipal or logging roads off the nearest highway, followed by a short walk; specific turn-by-turn directions and a maintained trailhead are not well documented. Use the provided coordinates and local maps/GPS, and confirm current access with local land or park authorities before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking information is not well documented. Expect limited or informal roadside parking at a trail access point; parking may be on a narrow shoulder or a small pullout. Do not block gates or private driveways. If you are uncertain, park at a safe, legal location and walk.
Elevation
319 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.085231° N, -79.151233° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy, grippy footwear; rocks near the falls are slippery. • Bring insect repellent in spring/summer and check for ticks after hiking. • Park legally and avoid blocking access roads or private property. • Practice leave-no-trace: carry out all trash and avoid damaging vegetation or stream banks. • If unsure about land ownership or access, contact local municipal offices or conservation authorities before visiting. • Avoid getting too close to the edge; many small falls have undercut or unstable banks.
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
Ontario Pioneer Camp
13.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby towns and attractions include Orillia (approximately 35 miles away), Parry Sound (approximately 49 miles), and Barrie (approximately 57 miles). The region has many lakes, provincial parks and hiking opportunities typical of central Ontario and the Muskoka/Simcoe area; check local tourism resources for options near your route.
Wildlife
Typical central Ontario wildlife may be present: white-tailed deer, beavers, otters, small mammals, waterfowl and songbirds. Black bears and coyotes occur regionally; take standard food-storage and wildlife-safety precautions. Ticks (Lyme disease risk) can be present in warmer months.
Cities near Slater Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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