Hermitage Cascade

*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

• Drive up into downtown Ancaster for fresh croissants and baguettes at Caniche French Bakery, or head next door for ice cream at Purple Pony.
• If you’re looking for a more substantial sit-down meal, check out Ancaster’s Coach & Lantern, Brewers Blackbird, or Cavallo Nero or treat yourself to one of Hamilton’s most iconic fine dining experience at Ancaster Mill, housed in a beautiful old flour mill overlooking a waterfall.
• Head the other way, back towards west end of Hamilton, for a mini brewery tour at neighbouring Grain & Grit Beer Co and Fairweather Brewing Company.