General Information

The Cataract Trail runs along the path of the Twenty Mile Creek,  a waterway that once powered the milling operations of a tiny hamlet settled by the Ball family in the early 19th Century.  Featuring both the upper and lower falls, the trail will take you on an experience from the rock formations of the Niagara Escarpment to the restored buildings of the once active pioneer hamlet, and the remnants of the Ball family saw mill.  When visiting late June and early July, expect to see plenty of patches of raspberries on the way back from the upper falls; they are a tasty reason to visit the trail while the falls are dry.  Bring your hiking boots in the fall and spring to the trail to appreciate the beauty and power of the Upper and Lower Ball's Falls.   Nature enthusiasts may catch a glimpse of the many migratory and nesting birds, reptiles, and other animals that can be found in the Ball's Falls Conservation Area. The Cataract Trail will also connect you with the Bruce Trail and the Twenty Valley Trail for a longer hiking option.  Mid-way through the Cataract Trail, there is an option to detour on the Forest Frolic Trail.