From hiking trails and waterfalls to historical buildings and interactive exhibits, Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is the perfect spot for an outdoor adventure. The park has two waterfalls, a museum and a historical village filled with buildings like the original Ball family home, an operating flour mill, a lime kiln, a church and a black smith shop. During the summer, historical buildings are open, so you can explore and see what it was like to live in the 19th century.
Within the park is the Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation, which has a small museum with interactive exhibits and displays about the wildlife and history around the Conservation Area. This is a really great place to learn more about nature, the Niagara escarpment and the watershed in a fun setting.
This Conservation Area has three short trails: Forest Frolic Trail (850 m), Switch Back Trail (725 m) and the Cataract Trail (1.3 km to Lower Falls and 1.7 km to Upper Falls). The trails are easy and you can get all three done within 45 minutes – 1.5 hours.
One of our favourite hikes within Ball’s Falls is the Cataract Trail. This trail takes you along the Twenty Mile Creek to both the upper and lower waterfalls, and through the historical village where you can explore the different buildings. With high cliffs, spectacular views and beautiful scenery, this short hike has it all. The trails are fairly easy, so it’s great if you’re just starting to hike.
Nestled on the scenic Niagara Escarpment, Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is a great place to take your family, friends or date. Remember to pack a lunch since there are tons of picnic tables around for you to enjoy your stay.
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area Q&A:
- Where is it located?
It’s based in Lincoln at 3292 Sixth Avenue, ON L0R 1S0. - What are the hours of operation?
It opens from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. - Is there an admission fee?
Yes. - What’s the difficulty of the trails?
All of the trails are an easy level of difficulty. This is a great place to visit if you’re just starting to hike since the trails are fairly easy with some steep and rocky areas. - Can I bring my dog?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed at Ball’s Falls. - What are some of the attractions?
You can visit the historical village set in the 19th century, the Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation and the upper and lower waterfalls. You can also book the historic barn, Centre for Conservation and historic church if you’re looking for a cute storybook wedding. - What can I do or see here?
You can go hiking, bird watching and picnicking! The historical area is also great place to host weddings!