Ball's Falls Conservation Area (Jordan)

Lower Falls (in the Fall)

Ball's Falls is a part of the UNESCO bio reserve that offers visitors a range of experiences, including trails, waterfalls, a historic village, wedding venues and an innovative Centre for Conservation. This historical cite is one of the Niagara Region's earliest settlements dating back to the early 19th century and has evidence of being a rich source of resources that dates back 2000 years.

The historic village will take you back to life in the early 19th century, with a blacksmith shop, display barn, church and more. As the map outlines, take a 20 minute hike to the Upper Falls (the smaller of the two) via the Cataract Trail or a shorter walk through the historic Village to view the Lower Falls.

The gorge that runs along Twenty Mile Creek is a site to see with colourful shale and sandstone layers. Like many provincial parks and conservation areas in Ontario, Ball's Falls connects to the Bruce Trail. Entrance to the park is $4 per person and is necessary if you drive there.

Upper Falls running through Twenty Mile Creek

I visited Ball's Falls for the first time on a winter day and the flow of the waterfall was massive. It appears it is quite different in the summer and fall, so be sure to explore in a variety of seasons.

While in the area, explore the many things the Niagara Region has to offer. Check out Rediscover Niagara for more ideas, including the Comfort Maple Tree, just 15 minutes away from Ball's Falls.

Decew Falls (Thorold)

I have recently come to appreciate how nature can transform among seasons in Southern Ontario. And although many people would never consider hiking in -15 degree weather, many of the trails are worth exploring in the winter.

Decew falls is a 22m waterfall with an old mill and heritage site at the top. It consists of small trails around it, which are an easy level of hiking. For those adventure seekers, I highly recommend to take the steep trek down the gorge. Here you can explore an "off the beaten path" experience with a more challenging walk to an even more beautiful destination. This shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes to walk but you will find yourself spending more time taking pictures and enjoying the scenery!

Summer: At the bottom of the falls you may swim in the small poolof water.

 

 Behind the falls

Winter: Enjoy the beauty of the falls being frozen over like one big icicle. Walk behind the falls which will appear like an ice cave.

WARNING: Be careful! The gorge is extremely steep and often slippery. Great caution must be taken to avoid any injuries. Make sure you find the safest pathway down and whenever going off the path always go with someone. - sorry for the typical disclaimer.. but it's true!