The best waterfall hikes and walks around Hamilton

Monarch Trail is a forested route that winds across rolling escarpment terrain with creek crossings, gradual climbs, and sections of mature woodland. It’s part of the larger Dundas Valley trail network, and passes through shaded ravines and more open areas, including remains of old orchards and hillside sections, adding lovely changing scenery along the way. Often used on longer hikes to nearby waterfalls such as Sherman Falls and Tiffany Falls, it offers a quieter woodland experience away from the busier main routes.

Canterbury Falls is a picturesque ribbon waterfall tucked along Canterbury Creek, where the water flows over a terraced rock face into a forested ravine. The falls are known for their layered appearance and quieter setting, and surrounded by mature forest and mossy rock, it feels like a hidden stop among the busier viewpoints in the area.

Sherman Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Hamilton area, where Ancaster Creek drops about 17 metres over a wide rock ledge on the Niagara Escarpment into a wooded gorge below. Reached by a short walk through forested terrain on either side of the creek, the waterfall is known for its expansive curtain-like flow and layered rock backdrop, with water often spreading across the cliff face, especially after rain. Surrounded by mature trees and beautiful escarpment scenery, it’s a popular stop for photographers and hikers exploring Hamilton’s network of waterfalls.

Located just off of Scenic Drive, this viewpoint gives you a nice lookout over Cliffview Falls. In summer it can be hard to see through the leaves, but a nearby staircase will lead you down the Niagara Escarpment to get a look from the other side of the falls.

Part of the 900-kilometer, province spanning Bruce Trail, the Radial Rail Trail cuts through Hamilton along the converted Brantford & Hamilton Electric Railway line. Along the way it passes through multiple neighbourhoods and parks, and by many of the 100-plus waterfalls that Hamilton is famous for.

Part of the Chedoke Creek watershed this six meter tall waterfall is accessible via the Chedoke Radial Trail or through a ravine behind the Chedoke Civic Golf Course. This is just one of over 100 waterfalls in Hamilton which tumble off the edge of the Niagara Escarpment.

The main entrance to Tiffany Falls is located on Wilson Street East, with a small roadside parking lot and a signed trailhead leading into the forest. A short, well-maintained path follows Tiffany Creek over bridges and boardwalks before reaching the 21-metre cascade, one of Hamilton’s most popular and photogenic waterfalls. The approach is shaded and easy, with steady foot traffic in all seasons, especially during spring melt and autumn colour. It’s the most convenient access point to the falls and the best starting spot for a quick, rewarding nature walk.

From the Mountain Brow Side Trail, you get a high, panoramic view of Albion Falls as it steps down the Niagara Escarpment. The cascade fans out over wide rock shelves, creating that classic tiered flow. It’s an easy viewpoint to reach, and the mix of forest, escarpment cliffs, and the steady sound of water makes it a beautiful place to pause and take it in. A great way to see one of Hamilton’s signature waterfalls from above, without the crowds.