Upper Ball's Falls
Ontario • 11 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
15 m
About Upper Ball's Falls
Upper Ball's Falls is one of two main cascades in the Ball's Falls Conservation Area (managed by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority) in Lincoln, Ontario. The falls drop over a rocky limestone/dolostone gorge and are set among woodland and heritage-site features. Water flow is typically highest in spring; the site offers scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities but involves short sections of stairs and uneven trail surfaces.
The Setting
Upper Ball's Falls sits at 177 metres in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 11 metres.
Height: 36 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Lower Ball's Falls (27 m) lies 0.8 kilometres to the north. 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 0.8-km out-and-back trail gains 15 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short, well-marked out-and-back route from the parking area leads to viewpoints of Upper Ball's Falls. Expect packed-earth trails with some wooden stairs and stone steps; sections can be uneven and may be muddy after rain. The viewpoint(s) provide safe vantage points over the gorge, do not cross safety barriers.
What to Expect
The falls drop 11 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 Upper Ball's Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Ball's Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring for high flows and fewer crowds midweek; early fall for foliage and pleasant temperatures. Summer is popular and can be busy on weekends. Winter offers icy/frozen scenes but trails can be hazardous, use caution and traction devices if visiting.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards: slippery and uneven trail surfaces, steep edges at viewpoints, rapidly changing water levels after heavy rain, cold water and strong currents, and icy conditions in winter. Always stay on marked trails and behind barriers, supervise children closely, avoid climbing on rocks near the gorge, and check local conditions before visiting. Cell service may be limited in some spots.
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
Ball's Falls Conservation Area is located in the Niagara Peninsula near Jordan/Short Hills. From nearby towns follow local signage for Ball's Falls or Ball's Falls Conservation Area (Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority). The coordinates provided (43.1276, -79.3853) locate the general area for the Upper Falls. Expect narrow local roads and a signed entrance to the conservation area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area for Ball's Falls visitors near the conservation area entrance. Parking can be limited on busy spring/fall weekends; vehicles should park only in marked spaces. Some parking areas and onsite facilities are seasonal, check NPCA information before visiting.
Elevation
177 metres above sea level
Coordinates
43.127647° N, -79.385300° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, there are stairs and uneven rock surfaces. Bring insect repellent during warm months and be tick-aware. Stay on marked trails and behind railings; do not climb on rocks near the edge. Check NPCA updates for any trail closures or special events.
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For this easy 0.8 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Shangri-La Family Campground
2.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Balls Falls Conservation Area and Ball's Falls Centre for Conservation (heritage buildings and interpretive displays). Nearby attractions include Jordan Village, local wineries in the Niagara-on-the-Lake/Jordan area, Beamer Memorial Conservation Area, and the larger Niagara Falls area (approximately 17 miles away per provided context).
Wildlife
Typical southern Ontario woodland wildlife: songbirds, waterfowl near the creek, white-tailed deer, small mammals, and seasonal amphibians. Be aware of ticks and poison ivy in warmer months.
Cities near Upper Ball's Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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