*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.

Tucked into the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, the Hermitage Cascade boasts a gentle, flow from Sulphur Creek tumbling over the rocks. Learn about the history of this restored property and expand your adventure by hiking the surrounding trails.

Waterfall Description

  • This cascade waterfall is a modest 4 metres tall and is easy to access.
  • It’s easy to find, right beside the Hermitage Gatehouse, that once marked the entrance to the property when it was privately owned.
  • Now it’s part of the expansive and beautiful Dundas Valley where it serves as a great starting point for a hike.

Parking and Proximity to Falls

  • The Hermitage Parking Lot, located on Sulphur Springs Road, is a two-minute walk to the waterfall.
  • Cost is $10/day

Hike Nearby

  • Once you’re at the Hermitage Cascade, the entire 1,200 hectares of Dundas Valley are yours to explore.
  • Well-marked trails lead through meadows and Carolinian forest, and across streams. Expect a hilly walk! Keep an eye out for both cyclists and horses as the trails are multi-use.
  • The Hermitage Gatehouse is on the Main Loop Trail in the Dundas Valley. It takes about 90 minutes to walk the whole thing. If you take a left at the waterfall, the Main Loop will lead to the 10.5-kilometre Headwaters Trail, with some small loops along the way.

What to Do

  • The Hermitage Ruins were recently restored as the original home was destroyed by a fire in 1934.
  • The ruins now exist as part of the Hermitage Gatehouse maintained by the Hamilton Conservation Authority.
  • Stick around at night to do a ghost walk where you’ll learn the spooky legend about the ruins and a doomed coachman.
  • History buffs interested in learning more about the area beyond the ghost tales, can visit the Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum. Visitors visiting in July and August can enjoy concerts every Sunday evening.

What to Eat

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.

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