Swayze Falls
Ontario • Short Hills Provincial Park • 14 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.6 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
104 m
About Swayze Falls
Swayze Falls is a small, forested cascade on a tributary in the Niagara Peninsula region of Ontario. It is located northwest of Niagara Falls (approx. 12.2 miles) and near Niagara University and the village of Youngstown. The waterfall sits in a wooded, typically rugged setting and may have seasonal flow variations; it is not a large tourist waterfall like the nearby Niagara Falls, but is of interest to local hikers and photographers. Specific measured height information is not readily available and appears to be undocumented in major trail databases.
The Setting
Swayze Falls sits at 168 metres within Short Hills Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 14 metres.
Height: 45 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Terrace Falls (6 m) lies 1.8 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Scout Falls (6 m, 2.4 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.6-km loop trail gains 104 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail information for Swayze Falls appears to be limited. The approach is likely a short, informal footpath through mixed forest with some rock and root exposure; sections near the falls may require scrambling over rocks and careful footing. Trails in the area may be unmarked or minimally maintained. Because official trail details are not confirmed here, assume routes are rough and use caution. If you need a well-maintained trail, seek local park maps or contact regional conservation authorities for confirmation.
What to Expect
The falls drop 14 metres.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Swayze Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Swayze Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (higher water flow) and fall (foliage) are often best for scenic interest; summer is fine for access but flows may be lower. Winter can offer dramatic ice formations but poses increased hazards from ice and limited safe foot travel, exercise extreme caution or avoid in winter if unsure of conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Short Hills Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards include slippery and unstable rocks, steep drop-offs, rapidly changing water levels after rain, cold water and hypothermia risk, ticks and poison ivy, and limited or no emergency services at the immediate site. Winter adds severe ice and avalanche/ice-fall hazards. Always maintain safe distance from edges, supervise children closely, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid approaching the water during high flows. If you are unsure about conditions, consult local park or conservation authority before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
0.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
5.06 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
Coordinates: 43.0929, -79.3026. The falls are in the Niagara Peninsula region, a short drive from Niagara Falls, ON. Access generally requires driving on local/regional roads; expect a short, informal approach trail from a roadside pullout or small parking area. Exact official trailhead names and turn-by-turn directions are not confirmed here, consult local maps or visitor information for precise routing and any seasonal access notices.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be limited to a small lot or roadside pullouts near the trail access. There may be no formal large parking facility; use caution when parking and avoid blocking private driveways or roads. Check local signage for restrictions.
Elevation
168 metres above sea level
Coordinates
43.092868° N, -79.302578° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy, grippy footwear; expect wet, slippery rocks near the falls. • Stay back from cliff edges and avoid climbing on unstable rock. • Parking may be limited, arrive early on weekends and do not block roads. • Check private property boundaries, some access routes in the Niagara region cross or adjoin private land. • Cell service may be spotty; tell someone your plans and expected return time. • Be tick-aware and use insect repellent and clothing that reduces tick exposure. • Respect local rules, posted signs, and any seasonal closures.
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With 6.6 km and 104 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
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
Shangri-La Family Campground
6 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Niagara Falls (~12.2 miles), Niagara University (~13.5 miles), Youngstown (~18.5 miles), Niagara River and various Niagara Gorge viewpoints and parks. Local conservation areas and trails in the Niagara Peninsula may be nearby, consult regional park lists for options.
Wildlife
Typical southern Ontario wildlife: songbirds, waterfowl, small mammals (squirrels, raccoons), white-tailed deer, and insects including ticks. Be aware of seasonal wildlife activity and use standard precautions (store food, do not approach wildlife).
Cities near Swayze Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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