Toronto 
Mention of Owen Sound might bring about images of sandy beaches, the Georgian Bay, or the offshore ships. And while this harbour town is home to great waterfront scenery and water recreation, there is just as much to see and explore inland, and on the opposite sides of Owen Sound.
The reasons for this mainly include the vast number of rivers and creeks with cascading waterfalls, the lushness of the forests that are scenic any time of year, the rocky terrain of the Niagara Escarpment, and the large parks created by these areas. The Pottawatomi Conservation Area, home to Jones Falls and a stop on the Grey County Waterfall Tour, is one of the most accessible of the beautiful and scenic parks!
The Pottawatomi Conservation Area is a straight shot west of Owen Sound by only about a 5-minute drive. Plus, there are two parking areas on opposite sides of the park, and additional entry via the Bruce Trail.
Unique Features of the Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area
The Niagara Escarpment, also a UNESCO World Biosphere, is home to the rocky cliffs of the escarpment, as well as several rivers and creeks which run across or over the rocks to create majestic waterfalls. Additionally, this part of Ontario is home to some of eastern North America’s oldest old-growth forests!
A visit to the Pottawatomi Conservation Area enables you to enjoy and explore all of the above with the park’s eastern boundary following the escarpment ridges. A highlight of the visit, on top of the beauty of the mature forests, is Jones Falls. The relatively smaller and calmer waterfall (if compared to, say, the Escarpment’s namesake, Niagara Falls) makes a beautiful cascade over a low, staircase-like set of rocks. All of this is framed by a dense set of trees and forest.
Year-round Hiking at the Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area
No matter the weather or season, the Conservation Area is open to hiking enthusiasts, joggers, and those looking for a pleasant riverside stroll.
- The Bruce Trail makes its way through the Conservation Area, with the Main Trail covering 1.7km one-way, following the Escarpment. There is also a Bruce Side Trail which leads to Jones Falls, follows the Falls Trail, and loops back into the trees to the north. The Side Trail connects back up with the Main Bruce Trail after about 1.5km.
- The park’s Main Trail runs parallel to the Bruce Trail from north to south and winds through the park to connect with the Bruce Side Trail and lead to Jones Falls. This easy route will involve about 4-5km of hiking.
Snowshoeing at Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area
The park is open to snowshoe exploration as soon as the snow hits the ground in Owen Sound! Additionally, the park has suggested snowshoe routes already mapped out to help with safer and easier exploration. To get to the falls during the winter, use the Falls Trail with snowshoes and see the forest draped in snow, with the small waterfall possibly frozen over, depending on the winter weather!
Parking is also available on the north side of the park to offer a greater trek across the forest and to the Jones Falls. This would involve about 5-6km of snowshoeing in total, depending on your chosen route.
More to Do:
- Explore Waterfalls of Owen Sound and Grey County
- Adventures in Owen Sound: Beaches, Festivals, Trails, Eats & More
- Fall Season Road Trip: Salmon Run in Owen Sound
Planning Your Trip – Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area
What: Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area has over 7 kilometers of trails to explore, making it popular with hikers year-round. Tucked inside the 116-hectare conservation area, Jones Falls drops 12 metres over the Niagara Escarpment into the Pottawatomi River, which eventually flows into Owen Sound Bay. In winter, it’s also a great place to break out the snowshoes.
Location and how to get there: 717875 Hwy 6, Owen Sound
5km outside of Owen Sound on Highway ON-6.
Jones Falls is located ~ 195 km (2 hr 45 min drive) from Toronto, 130 km (2 hr drive) from Barrie, 150 km ( 2 hr drive) from Kitchener and 205 km (2 hr 45 min drive) from London.
Add Indian Falls Conservation Area, located nearby, to your trip.
Best time to go: year-round for various activities.
The water flow over the falls reduces during summer (unless heavy rains), so spring is probably your best bet if you want to see it at its fullest.
Cost: Free admission
For more information:
Jones Falls & Pottawatomi Conservation Area
