Devil's Punch Bowl Falls is a unique waterfall located on the Niagara Escarpment in Stoney Creek, Ontario. Known for its distinctive horseshoe multi-coloured cliff, it offers an absolutely breathtaking view.
Let's get started!
Before you start the hike, you can explore the area to see the view of the falls from the top. You'll also see a 10-metre high cross that overlooks the community.
When you're ready, head towards the bench where you'll see a side trail marker. The trail will take you down a zig-zag path down a steep incline until you reach the bottom of the escarpment. Turn left and continue following the trail. Along the way, you'll find wooden stairs that take you down towards the river.
From here, the goal is to take the main trail upstream until you reach the Lower Falls. There's a bunch of side trails that will take you on more difficult paths that I probably wouldn't try again. Climb up past the Lower Falls and keep following the trail. When you get closer to Devil's Punch Bowl Falls, follow the trails that are closer to the river because I noticed that some trails head uphill and away from the falls.
You'll reach a point where the trail leads you down to the river. Use the tree roots to climb down onto the riverbed. Now head upstream towards Devil's Punch Bowl Falls and you'll be rewarded with an amazing view of the falls.
NOTES:
- The hike takes about 30 min - 1 hour depending how fast you move.
- There's a free parking lot at Ridge Road west of Centennial Parkway S.
- This hike is ideal during dryer weather because you'll need to hike along the riverbed to make it to the falls. If the water flow is too heavy, you won't be able to reach it. Also, mud makes everything slippery, especially the beginning of the hike.
- Be careful on the hike because some parts have a narrow path with a cliff beside it.
- Try going in the winter to see a frozen waterfall!
