Smokey Hollow

Hamilton waterfall areas remain closed due to limited space and capacity for visitors to physically distance. Please enjoy below content for future trip planning only.

Don’t be confused by the multiple names for Smokey Hollow Falls – also known as Grindstone, Waterdown or Great Falls. They all describe the same beautiful ribbon waterfall in its leafy forest setting that flows from Grindstone Creek in Waterdown.

Waterfall Description

• At 10 metres tall, this isn’t the area’s biggest waterfall, but this short and fast-flowing waterfall is surrounded by a great section of the Bruce Trail. It has a rugged footpath tracing its way up and down the ravine formed by Niagara Escarpment.
• Once used to power a local sawmill, the falls are now the centre of beautifully rehabilitated park land.

Parking and Proximity to Falls

• A parking lot can be found just off Mill Street, not far from highway 5.

Accessibility

• There is a viewing platform beside the waterfall.

Hike Nearby

• The Great Falls loop is 3.5 km hike (with a 1.1 km side trail option) that is part of the Bruce Trail. A steep hill and steps are part of this walk that takes you from the forest to the top of the Niagara Escarpment. So expect a workout.

What to Do

• Rock Chapel Golf Centre, a couple of kilometres west of highway 6 on highway 5, features an 18-hole mini-putt course.
• Waterdown Village Farmers’ Market, open Saturday mornings May through October, features a long list of local vendors.

What to Eat

• The historic community of Waterdown has plenty of delicious treats to indulge in.
• Copper Kettle Cafe is known for its mouth-watering apple fritters
• Chocolate fans can try BeanerMunky’s small-batch, artisanal chocolates.
• Pick up meat, cheese and baked goods for a picnic at Harrington Lane Farms
• Enjoy traditional fine dining at Lord Byron Steak and Seafood House
• Not far, in neighbouring Freelton, West Avenue Cidery serves up small batch ciders in a stunning farm setting.