Toronto 
Many might argue that Ontario’s waterfalls are best appreciated during the fall. This statement is apparent at the Niagara-region Ball’s Falls Conservation Area where two waterfalls plummet over cliffs and under the colourful foliage.
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is a short drive from Hamilton or St. Catharines with many fall highlights in addition to the waterfall viewing or photography.
Head to the park for the annual Thanksgiving festival, some of Ontario’s best waterfall views, and a quiet escape for the day.
Annual Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival
The annual Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival (October 9-12, 2026) celebrates its 52nd anniversary this year!
The family-friendly holiday tradition features a farmers’ market, an artisan market, food trucks galore, and craft beverage vendors. Plus, there is live entertainment scheduled for every hour with live music, children’s entertainment, and nature showcases.
The Best Fall Hikes in and Around Ball’s Falls
The park’s Cataract Trail offers a way to the upper and lower Ball’s Falls. Follow the trail north through the historical village and to the waterfront to view the lower falls with water crashing down a 27m drop.
The Cataract Trail then leads south from the historical village, across a pedestrian bridge, and along the Twenty Mile Valley toward the upper falls. The upper Ball’s Falls are 11m in height, making it wider than it is tall.
While heading to the Upper Falls on the Cataract Trail, watch for the ruins of an abandoned mill.
On the west side of the Creek and Pedestrian Bridge, you can access more great hiking. These trails connect to the Cataract Trail but are also accessible from the second parking lot. These wooded areas are perfect for capturing more beautiful fall scenery within the Conservation Area.
Exploring the Preserved Historical Village
Entering the Ball’s Falls Conservation Area truly feels like stepping back in time. The area is dotted with several preserved historical buildings, including 19th-century homes, businesses, shops, a barn, a chapel, and mills. Set against warm fall colours, the structures give the area a festive autumn feel.
More Fall Fun in the Area
Take in more Thanksgiving fun around the Conservation Area and Lincoln, or more fall colours and hiking with nearby trails. Fall is also a perfect time to explore the shops and dining around these smaller Niagara communities with great scenery around every turn.
Along with the Thanksgiving activities at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, there will also be special tours and crafts at the nearby Lincoln Museum & Cultural Centre.
Dozens of wineries surround the Conservation Area and dot the Niagara Peninsula. The closest to Ball’s Falls is Calamus Winery, open to the public through October for tastings (the Bistro is closed for the season).
Find more great hiking trails at the other nearby conservation areas like Louth or Rockway, both east of Ball’s Falls.
Grab a bite at local restaurants like Boo’s Bar & Eatery, Jordan Pizza, or the Country Style café.
Planning Your Trip – Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
What: The Conservation Area follows the banks of the Twenty Mile Creek near Lincoln and Jordan. The major highlights for visitors are the upper and lower Ball’s Falls, the hiking trails, and the Historical Village.
Location and how to get there: 3292 Sixth Ave. (Bruce Trail), Lincoln
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is located in Lincoln, part of the Niagara Falls Region, 15km west of St. Catharines, 50km east of Hamilton.
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is conveniently located for a day trip from the Golden Horseshoe region, with Toronto, London, and the Kitchener-Waterloo Region all within a two-hour drive.
Best time to go: Year-round, October for the Thanksgiving festival or fall colours
How much:
Vehicle/Driver – $15.00
Vehicle Senior/Student – $11.50
Additional Passenger Adult – $5.00
Additional Passenger Senior/Student – $4.00
Max Car – $30.00
Bus (over 20) – $170.
Off Season (Fall-Winter) (No Attendant) – $9.00
Auto Gate Peak Season (No Attendant) – $15.00
For more information:
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
