5 places to see fall colours in Hamilton

As the cooler weather arrives, it is a great time to get outside and see fall colours in Hamilton.

Hamilton offers beautiful spots for fall hikes, nature viewing and seeing the vibrant colours of the season.

From forested conservation areas to specular waterfalls — Hamilton’s rural areas have some wonderful places for hiking and selfies.

Just make sure to check ahead — conservation areas require online reservations in the fall and space can be limited. Also, be sure to park in a legal space and don’t block traffic.

Dundas Peak and Tew Falls

This Hamilton Conservation Authority spot has a 2.9-kilometre loop trail hike starting at Tew Falls. This spectacular waterfalls, at 41 metres high, is just a few metres shorter than Niagara Falls.

The hike, considered moderately challenging, continues along the Niagara Escarpment to the Dundas Peak, offering a stunning view of the escarpment and Dundas and Hamilton.

For those who don’t want to hike, there are two viewing platforms to see the falls and gorge.

The access point is at 581 Harvest Rd., Dundas.

Snake Road to Waterdown

Hamilton Halton Brant tourism site suggests the quiet, rural roads of Waterdown. They suggest starting on Snake Road, a winding, tree-canopied road for drivers or cyclists that starts in Burlington and leads to Waterdown.

Dundas also has some beautiful country roads for a drive. Both places have charming downtown areas.

Tiffany Falls

This 21-metre high cascade waterfall is surrounded with fall foliage if you catch it at the right time.

There is an easy, 360-metre walk from the parking lot to Tiffany Falls where the trail ends. The trail is a flat path through the forest.

Reservations are also needed to visit. Access is at 900 Wilson St. E.

Dundas Valley Conservation Area

Those looking for a longer hike may want to try a portion of the 40-kilometre multi-use trail network at Dundas Valley Conservation Area.

Called one of Ontario’s “spectacular natural treasures”, there are lush Carolinian forests, colourful meadows, cold-water streams and stunning geological formations, according to Hamilton Conservation Authority.

The trail system is open to hikers, dog-walkers, cyclists and equestrians.

Access is at 650 Governors Rd., Dundas.

Smokey Hollow Falls

These 10-metre high falls, also known as Grindstone, Waterdown or Great Falls, are fast following and surrounded with forest.

After viewing the falls, the Great Falls loop trail is a 3.5-kilometre hike (with a 1.1 kilometre side trail option) that is part of the Bruce Trail. There is a steep hill and steps to get to the top of the Niagara Escarpment.

Access is just off Mill Street, not far from Highway 5.

Check out Hamilton Conservation Area for more information and to make reservations at some of the above spots.