Trethewey Falls
Ontario • 11 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
6 m
About Trethewey Falls
Trethewey Falls is a modest, local waterfall located in central Ontario (GPS 44.9881, -79.2709), within driving distance of Orillia, Barrie and Parry Sound. It is typically described by visitors as a small, multi-tiered cascade on a forested stream. Facilities are limited; the site is popular with local hikers and photographers. Specific historical or hydrological details are not well documented in major guide resources and the waterfall is best described as a scenic roadside-to-short-hike feature rather than a large or highly developed provincial park attraction.
The Setting
Trethewey Falls sits at 273 metres in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 11 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Trethewey Falls flows over hard crystalline rock laid down over 1.4-1.6 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 36-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Matthiasville Falls (13 m) lies 5.5 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Bracebridge Falls (10 m, 6.4 km) and Wilsons Falls (10 m, 8.5 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.3-km out-and-back trail gains 6 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short, mostly flat walk from a small parking/pullout leads through mixed forest and light undergrowth to a viewpoint above or beside the cascade. Trail surfaces may be natural (dirt, roots, rocks) and can be muddy after rain. There may be minimal or no official infrastructure (no boardwalks or handrails in many places). Expect a brief hike, suitable for most visitors who can manage short uneven terrain.
What to Expect
The falls drop 11 metres over hard crystalline rock.
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 Trethewey Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Trethewey Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (after snowmelt) through early summer for higher flows and greener surroundings. Fall offers good colours for photography. Winter can produce ice formations but access may be icy or closed, use caution 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 wet rocks, unstable shorelines, steep or hidden drop-offs, variable water flow, and cold water. Conditions can change quickly after rain. No guaranteed railings or barriers, maintain safe distance from edges and supervise children closely. Cell service may be limited; carry a map, tell someone your plans, and consider bringing a personal locator if you will be in remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
1.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
8.83 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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Orillia hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Use the GPS coordinates 44.9881, -79.2709 in a mapping app. The falls are reached via local township roads off the main regional routes; nearest larger towns are Orillia (~25 miles), Barrie (~48 miles) and Parry Sound (~49 miles). Expect rural roads and limited signage, follow local maps/GPS and respect private property boundaries.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is typically informal: a small roadside pullout or unpaved parking area near the trailhead. Space may be limited and may not be clearly signed. Do not block driveways or gates.
Elevation
273 metres above sea level
Coordinates
44.988105° N, -79.270945° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, rocks and trails can be slippery, especially when wet. • Bring insect repellent in spring and summer; ticks and mosquitoes may be present. • Stay back from the edge of the falls and wet rocks, they can be dangerously slippery. • Pack out what you pack in; there may be no trash facilities. • Respect private property and posted signs; some access may cross or be adjacent to private land. • Check local conditions (recent visitor reports or municipal sources) before heading out, especially in winter or after heavy rains.
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For this easy 0.3 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.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
KOA Kampground
12.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearest larger communities: Orillia, Barrie and Parry Sound. The broader region offers provincial parks, lakes, and hiking opportunities; specific nearby attractions will depend on your route and are best confirmed via local tourism resources.
Wildlife
Typical central Ontario wildlife may be present: songbirds, small mammals, white-tailed deer, and insects. Be aware of ticks in warmer months. Larger wildlife are possible but sightings are uncommon near brief roadside hikes.
Cities near Trethewey Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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