*Given popularity of these waterfalls, consider planning your visit during off-peak times (early morning or weekdays) and avoid parking on roadways if parking lots are full.

*Waterfall flow is seasonal and affected by rainfall.

This 15-metre-high curtain waterfall is located next to Rock Chapel Road and flows into Borer’s Creek, which drains from Waterdown and winds its way to Cootes Paradise Marsh. You have to peer through the trees to see this impressive waterfall at the top of the escarpment. Also called Rock Chapel Falls, you can get to it from the bottom of the escarpment or the top.

Waterfall Description

  • Located in the Dundas and Flamborough region, the Borer’s Falls/Rock Chapel area is managed by the Hamilton Conservation Authority (below the escarpment) and Royal Botanical Gardens (above the escarpment) as a nature reserve. It also connects Cootes Paradise and the Niagara Escarpment.
  • At 15 metres high, Borer’s Falls was once used to power a local sawmill.
  • A stone bridge dating back to 1868 provides a great view of the top of the falls. On the east side of the ravine, a lookout offers equally spectacular views.

Parking and Proximity to Falls

  • There is a paid parking lot at Rock Chapel Sanctuary (take Rock Chapel Road from Sydenham Road) but this lot is closed during the winter months.
  • There is also a parking lot off York Road at the Borer’s Falls Dog Park. Take the Ray Lowes Side Trail up the main Bruce Trail and follow signs for Borer’s and Rock Chapel Sanctuary (around 30 to 40 minutes by foot).

Accessibility

  • The trails to Borer’s Falls are hard-packed dirt with the odd roots and rocks.

Hike Nearby

  • If you park off York, further west you’ll find a trailhead (cars parked on the shoulder) that will lead you down a marsh walk to Cootes Paradise Sanctuary.
  • You can also head into the Royal Botanical Garden arboretum from here, heading east on the Pinetum Trail from this side of the street.
  • If you stay on the north side of York and head east, you’ll encounter the Berry Tract, another RBG hiking route.

What to Do Nearby

There are plenty of sites to enjoy a short drive away.

  • The Royal Botanical Garden’s Arboretum is less than ten minutes away by car and features various collections in bloom at different times of the year, as well as more trails to explore.
  • Dyment’s Market & Bakery is a perfect family-friendly rural destination nearby where kids can play mini golf or explore a pumpkin patch while parents can enjoy the gorgeous country views and delicious farm-fresh treats.

What to Eat

  • Royal Botanical Gardens maintains several stunning sites in the region, which include some must-try restaurants, including The Rock Garden Bistro overlooking the historic Rock Garden and the Turner Pavilion Tea House, surrounded by Hendrie Park’s innovative Rose Garden.
  • In nearby Waterdown, The Dutch Mill Country Market has a tea room where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Pick up some baked goods for the way home!

Enjoying Hamilton Waterfalls Safely

Please consider these tips to help keep you safe while respecting the environment and surrounding neighbourhoods.

  • Waterfalls are located in environmentally sensitive areas – please stay on marked designated trails and obey closure signs; there are many rare plants that can be easily damaged or destroyed.
  • Park in designated parking areas only.
  • Do not cross active CN rail tracks to access waterfall areas and vistas. Crossing rail tracks is prohibited and illegal.
  • Stick to marked paths and stay well back from slopes, edges and other fall or slipping hazards.
  • Keep children and pets close.
  • Do not climb or otherwise bypass fencing.

Please watch this safety video from the City of Hamilton.

Explore more Hamilton waterfalls with our Waterfalls Guide.