The Dundas Peak is one of my favourite places to visit for the hiking, the waterfalls, and its lookout. First, it’s one of the prettiest places in Hamilton and dare I say, all of Ontario. I recommend spending the day in the cute town of Dundas and incorporating a visit to the Dundas Peak, Tews Falls and Webster’s Falls to your trip.
I grew up in the town of Dundas (now part of the city of Hamilton), and I’ve always loved the Dundas Peak hike. While I have seen this space grow in popularity over the years, I can totally understand why everyone wants to visit. It’s beautiful and home to some of the best waterfalls in Hamilton.
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I’ve visited the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area for decades. The Spencer Gorge is the scenic space made famous by Websters Falls, Tews Falls, and the Dundas Peak.
While the Dundas Peak lookout is famous on its own, there are two amazing waterfalls just a short walk away from it. Hamilton is the City of Waterfalls, after all!
These hiking trails are gorgeous all year long, but fall is a special season in the Dundas Valley. The treetops gleam gold, amber, copper, and rust. In this Dundas Peak ultimate guide, I’m going to show you how to visit:
- Dundas Peak Lookout
- Tews Falls
- Websters Falls
- Spencer Gorge Conservation Area
Visiting the Dundas Peak: Then and Now
I have so many memories of exploring the trails and waterfalls of Dundas while growing up there. We’d sway from makeshift rope swings at the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, flying through the air and rolling into piles of leaves.
I remember taking class hiking trips to Webster’s Falls right from my middle school, formerly known as Dundas District (now known as the District Lofts, as the school was transformed into condo units).
Nowadays, I live a few cities away from Dundas, but I find myself continually returning to the Dundas Peak in Hamilton. Dundas is where I’ll always feel most at home. Is there a place in the world that gives you that feeling?
Even though much has changed, I’m happy to show off my little hometown to everyone and anyone I know. Before the days of the Internet and forums and social media and blogs, the Dundas Peak (just known as “The Peak” to us) and its waterfalls were our little secret.
Now, I’m overjoyed that so many people from around the world visit my hometown because it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve witnessed. While the Dundas Peak trail is more popular than ever, I’m proud that this space that I find so important can be shared by so many.
Dundas Peak in 2024
Dundas Peak, Tews Falls, Websters Falls now have an online reservation system, operated by the Hamilton Conservation Authority. All three points of interest are part of the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is a very popular spot, so this helps keep the crowds under control and avoids disappointment for any visitors out of town who could be turned away otherwise.
From the May long weekend, you are required to make a reservation on weekends and holidays. From mid-September to November, Websters Falls and Dundas Peak reservations will be required seven days a week (the escarpment area is beautiful with the fall colours, and it is busier for that very reason).
Dundas Peak/Tews Falls and Webster’s Falls Are Not Connected
Although the Spencer Gorge Wilderness Area is home to two waterfalls and a lookout, they are treated as two separate places to visit. As the Dundas Peak, Tew’s Falls, and Webster’s Falls are no longer linked by one singular hiking trail, you will have to park in two different places to easily access both.
The parking lot for Webster’s Falls is at the Greensville Optimist Park, (277 Brock Road, Dundas). The parking lot for Tews Falls and the Dundas Peak is at 581 Harvest Road, Dundas.
You will need to book time for one or the other: the Dundas Peak/Tews Falls or Websters Falls. There will be a maximum of 2 hours at each spot. There is a reservation fee, a vehicle fee, and a fee for each person to enter. If you are the owner of a Hamilton Conservation Authority pass, you will receive free admission but must pay the reservation fee.
Fence Around the Peak
Please note that there is a large, black fence around the edge of the Dundas Peak. You can no longer go to the edge of the cliffs to take photos or admire the views. You will have to keep behind the fence that lines the entire Peak.
It’s so unfortunate that there is now a fence there. This area has truly changed over the years, and I feel as though this is the largest (and worst) transformation. I will update this blog post with new photos of the fence when I return.
Dundas Peak Parking (Is There Free Parking at Dundas Peak?)
Back in the day, I used to park for free at Webster’s Falls, Tews Falls, and the Dundas Peak. Websters Falls and Tews Falls are two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hamilton.
Hamilton’s tourism campaign promoting the city as the waterfall capital of the world was a resounding success (I’ve also called it the frozen waterfall capital of the world). With a huge influx of visitors, the Hamilton Conservation Authority now charges a parking fee to manage the crowds and maintain the area.
From November to May, you don’t need a reservation to park at the lots, but you must pay the parking fee. Parking is on a first come, first serve basis. Between May and November, you’ll need to make a reservation, as I’ve described above.
From the parking lot for the Dundas Peak and Tews Falls, follow a 1.8km trail to reach Tews Falls first and then the Peak. For Websters Falls, you’ll hike from Greensville Optimist Park towards the waterfall. From there, you can witness the beauty of Websters Falls from a couple of vantage points, as well as enjoy the picnic tables and pavilions.
Dundas Peak Free Parking
If you’re looking for Dundas Peak free parking, you’ll be hard pressed to find it. At the top of the escarpment, every side street is marked with no parking signs. Don’t park on these streets as you’ll surely get a ticket or towed. Please don’t try to park anywhere in Greensville other than the designated lots.
There are loads of places to park down below the escarpment in the Dundas Valley that are free. However, it is now illegal to hike from the base of the escarpment and up through the forest to the Dundas Peak. This involves crossing the CN Rail tracks, which is trespassing.
This also means that there are no legal ways to reach the base of Websters Falls or Tews Falls as you’d have to cross the CN Rail tracks to reach those forest trails. This area is heavily monitored and I don’t recommend that any of my readers go trespassing and risk getting tickets.
Alternative to the Dundas Peak Lookout (That’s 100% Free!)
If you are looking for a 100% free place to park and check out the scenery, I have a bit of a secret spot to share with you. It’s essentially the Dundas Peak Lookout without going to the actual site of the Dundas Peak. Back in the day, the Dundas Peak was a far superior spot because you could sit near the edges of the cliffs.
Since that is no longer the case, I recommend going to the Sydenham Lookout instead. From the town of Dundas, drive up the Sydenham Hill (on Sydenham Road). Towards the top of the Sydenham Hill, you’ll notice a small space to park at the side of the road. There’s room for a handful of cars there.
From the Sydenham Lookout, you can admire all of the same views as at the Dundas Peak Lookout for free! You don’t need to pay to park and there’s no hiking involved. This is a secret from a local, and I’m happy to share it with you.
Tews Falls, the Dundas Peak Waterfall
The easiest and most popular Dundas Peak trail hike starts at Tews Falls and follows the Tews Falls Lookout Trail (also known as the Spencer Adventure Trail) to the Dundas Peak. You’ll witness the panoramic views of the valley, the stunning Spencer Gorge, and the geological wonders of the Niagara Escarpment (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve).
Right away, you’ll reach Tews Falls, a waterfall that’s 41 metres high, just a few metres short of Niagara Falls. I recommend checking Tews Falls out during the spring and fall months, as the waterfall can nearly dry up in the summer. If you can visit in the autumn just after a rainfall, Tews Falls will shine with the most magnificence.
How to Hike to the Dundas Peak
From Tews Falls, continue hiking to the Dundas Peak. It’s a relatively easy, gentle ascent to the top of the escarpment. You’ll start by climbing a staircase. Then, admire the shady trees all around you, with small glimpses of the Spencer Gorge and beyond.
This hike is lovely all year long, although I’m partial to the autumn. Don’t venture off the trail. Follow the blue markers until you reach the Peak. It’s technically called the “Dundas Lookout Side Trail”, although it’s only a few steps to the lookout itself.
Dundas Peak Lookout
Please note that this area will look differently now from the photos you’ll see here. There is now a four foot black fence around the edge of the Dundas Peak. You won’t be able to get close to the edge or take photos at the edge. You’ll still be able to admire the view from behind the fence.
At the main Dundas Peak lookout, you’ll see the iconic short wall that’s usually spray painted with graffiti (this may no longer be there). From there, enjoy panoramic views of the entire town. I have visited this spot with so many friends over the years, and even on my own.
It was one of the first places I took Justin when we started dating. Back in those days, there were never many other people around and we usually had it to ourselves. Nowadays, it’s a very different space with people taking turns snapping photographs of each other, as well as an unlimited amount of selfies.
Just like everyone else, I was pleased to capture pictures at the Dundas Peak for my own Instagram. While we can wistfully dream of earlier times when the Dundas Peak was left undiscovered by the masses, I’m happy to inspire others to visit this sensational scenery.
You won’t be able to take photos at the edge of the Dundas Peak like I did for many years. For safety reasons, there is now a big fence around it. Please do not try to climb over the fence or find an alternate way. It’s extremely dangerous to do so.
Over the years, many people have fallen over the edge. There were risky rope rescues by the Hamilton fire department, and you’re putting lots of other people in danger if you fall. Plus, you might have serious injuries or not survive.
Reaching Webster’s Falls from Tews Falls
Webster’s Falls and Tews Falls are both spectacular waterfalls and relatively close to one another. Once upon a time, we used to be able to hike from one to the next with ease along the Bruce Trail.
Unfortunately, many visitors were disrespectful to the nearby landowners who generously allowed the trail to wind through their private property. From nude photo shoots to trespassing and intruding around their yard, the property owners revoked the rights for hikers to pass through their land. You’re currently unable to hike between Webster’s Falls and Tews Falls.
Here are a couple of suggestions: you can park at Tews Falls to hike the Dundas Peak trail to see the lookout and the waterfall. Then, you can move your car to the parking lot at the Greensville Optimist Park to see Webster’s Falls. Conversely, you can leave your car at the Tews Falls lot, walk down Harvest Road, Short Road, and then Fallsview Road to the waterfall.
Hiking to the Bottom of Websters Falls
To make matters even more confusing, there isn’t any way to reach the bottom of Websters Falls from the top of it. There used to be a staircase, but it was removed to preserve the ecology of the land.
Please do not attempt to hike to the base of Webster’s Falls. Maybe one day we’ll be able to enjoy it again, but until then, please follow the rules of the park.
If you enter the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area to see Webster’s Falls from the top of the escarpment (at Fallsview Road), you’ll catch stunning views of the waterfall cascading over the edge. The official HCA website asks that you do not climb any fences or edges of the gorge to climb to the bottom of the falls.
Unfortunately, there is no longer a way to hike to the base of Webster’s Falls or Tews Falls. There are fences that will block your way if you try to access the hiking trails from down below. I really hope that they open this back up in the future. Hiking to the base of Webster’s Falls was one of the best features of this conservation area.
Webster’s Falls is the winter is equally as beautiful as all the other seasons. When you visit the Tews Falls, Webster’s Falls, and the Dundas Peak in the winter, you won’t find many other visitors there with you. It’s probably the only time of year when you’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself.
Get out there and see the Spencer Gorge, Dundas Peak, Websters Falls and Tews Falls during any season. I recommend going on a weekday during the fall for the gorgeous autumn colours. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning where you’ll be sharing the trail with mostly locals walking their dogs.
Even when I visited on a weekday afternoon, it wasn’t terribly crowded. The peak fall colours can happen anywhere from the end of September to mid October. They might peak later in October if the summer heat continues for longer than anticipated.
Is the Dundas Peak Haunted?
Dundas Peak is home to one of the most haunted hiking trails and conservation areas in Ontario. When some hikers were taking a picture at the edge of the cliffs, they spotted something creepy in one of their photographs. A spooky, thin person without a face appeared on an rocky outcropping where it isn’t possible for people to walk.
No matter how hard they tried, the hikers couldn’t achieve a similar picture. With that said, there are some stories of hauntings in the area, specifically a train crash that took place on the tracks just below the Dundas Peak. Have you had any haunted sightings in the Spencer Gorge area?
Getting to the Dundas Peak
The easiest way to reach the Dundas Peak/Tews Falls or Websters Falls is by driving there. Most people drive there or carpool to get there. You can park in the designated parking lots.
A few years back, the Hamilton Conservation Authority directed all visitors to park at Christie Lake Conservation Area and take the shared shuttle bus to get there. They’re no longer using this method, though it could return in the future.
It is possible to reach the Dundas Peak by public transit, but it isn’t as easy. The HSR number 5 bus only goes towards the end of King Street in Dundas. From there, you need to get up the hill to Greensville. At this point, I suggest taking an Uber to the designated parking lots, depending on which spot you’re visiting.
More Things to Do in Dundas
There are plenty of things to do in Dundas that will keep you busy all day long. While you’re visiting the Dundas Peak, I suggest venturing into the little main street and downtown core (King Street).
There are lots of little boutique shops, the Detour coffee shop (my fav!), and many restaurants. A few local favorite restaurants in downtown Dundas include:
- Bangkok Spoon Deluxe (Thai restaurant in the old “Deluxe” 50s diner)
- The Thirsty Cactus (Mexican restaurant)
- India Village (Indian restaurant)
- Collins Brewhouse (local pub)
- Little Asia (vegetarian Asian restaurant)
- Taylor’s Tea Room (tea shop and lunch spot)
If you’re in town during the middle of August, you might arrive just in time for the annual Cactus Festival, a local hidden gem with a parade, midway, and a big party. There’s also Busker Fest that happens every year at the beginning of June.
Visiting during the holidays? Dundas has lots of Christmas celebrations on weekends during the holidays, and you won’t have to pay for parking during the month of December.
There are no shortage of other places to go hiking in Dundas. The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is one of the best hiking spots in Dundas, and you can also link right up with the Rail Trail that extends between Hamilton and Brantford. Here are more of the best hiking trails in Hamilton that will keep you busy for weeks!
Dundas Peak Frequently Asked Questions
You might still have a few questions about the Dundas Peak. I’ve received quite a few emails over the years since I first published this article. I’ll try my best to summarize and answer your questions here.
Yes! The Dundas Peak is back open, though you’ll need to book a reservation for part of the year. From mid-May to November, you’ll need to book a reservation to visit Dundas Peak, Tews Falls, and Webster’s Falls through the Hamilton Conservation Authority.
It is not free. You must pay $10 to park your car at the Dundas Peak or Webster’s Falls parking lots. There’s an additional entry fee of $5 per person and a $10 reservation fee if you’re visiting between May and October.
The best way to hike to the Dundas Peak is by starting at Tews Falls and taking the Tews Falls Side Trail. The path will lead you directly to the Dundas Peak. There are some other hiking paths and routes to get to the Dundas Peak if you live locally. But, the main way to get to the Dundas Peak from the parking lot is by hiking the main Dundas Peak trail, the Tews Falls Side Trail.
The entire hike between Tews Falls and the Dundas Peak should only take around an hour. You’ll want to spend a longer amount of time in both places to take photos and absorb the beautiful views. I’d allow an hour and a half to two hours in total at the Dundas Peak and Tews Falls.
At its highest point, the Dundas Peak is 110 metres or 360 feet from the base of the escarpment to the top.
The Dundas Peak trails are dog friendly. Lots of locals take their dogs for walks on the Tews Falls Side Trail. Please be mindful of your dog once you reach the Dundas Peak itself. Keep your dog on a leash at all times.
The walk to Websters Falls is not too far from the car parking lot. You should be able to reach the waterfall within a 5 to 10 minute walk. If you choose to hike from below the escarpment and up to the base of Webster’s Falls, this hike takes at least an hour.
Webster’s Falls is 22 metres high. It is a classic curtain or plunge waterfall. Located at the Spencer Gorge in Greensville / Dundas, its water source is the Spencer Creek.
Tews Falls is 41 metres high. It is a ribbon waterfall that’s nearly as high as Niagara Falls. Located at the Spencer Gorge in Greensville / Dundas, its water source is Logie’s Creek.
Tews Falls Side Trail is a rugged hiking trail that is not wheelchair accessible or stroller friendly. There’s also a staircase near the start of the trail. However, Webster’s Falls has paved paths and there are areas that are wheelchair accessible there.
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Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.
Ambreen
Saturday 23rd of October 2021
Hi. Can you recommend driving routes? I'm disabled & can't hike.
Lauren
Wednesday 27th of October 2021
I can suggest driving the roads around the Dundas Valley Conservation Area on the Ancaster side - Sulphur Springs Road down to Ancaster and all of those streets look really beautiful with the fall leaves. Any drive through Dundas is also quite lovely!
Amin Ahadipour
Monday 26th of April 2021
Hi Lauren, Thanks for all the amazing information here you provided us with! Couldn't be better. I have a question. So I booked a spot in Greensville Optimist Park for the upcoming Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30 toshow Webster fall to a very good friend of mine. (It's my 2nd time going there) I've never seen Tew's fall and Dundas peak. So I have the plan to visit them all in one shot. Do I need to book another parking spot in Tew's fall parking? I just don't want to pay another $30 for this trip. (Although it's worth it) If yes( I have to pay 2 times) which place do you recommend to visit, Tew's fall and Dundas Peak or Webster fall? (I also have a good trip summary to Banff I can share it with you if you want :) )
Thanks for your time! Amin
Lauren
Tuesday 27th of April 2021
Hi Amin! Thanks for reading the blog! Unfortunately, you do need to book a separate time slot for Tews Falls so it would be an additional cost. There is a separate parking lot and the trails are no longer connected (Websters Falls / Tews Falls). Webster's Falls is beautiful. But, Tews Falls is also pretty stunning and there is a small hike to get to the Dundas Peak. I feel like if you had to visit one, I would go to Tews Falls and the Dundas Peak because there is a little more to see. If you are thinking about going Saturday...that's when the bookings open up. However, if you visit between now and Friday, you only have to pay for parking and you don't need a reservation (reservations are required May 1st but not before then). Not sure if you can sneak over on Friday instead of Saturday, but that would be a good option if you want to see both spots for less money. Hope that's helpful!
Krishna Das
Tuesday 27th of October 2020
I believe it's late now to see the FALL. Can we still enjoy ?
Lauren
Tuesday 27th of October 2020
It is a little late, but I was in Dundas last week and the fall colours were still out! I think you might catch the end of it if you go soon.
Aasiya
Tuesday 29th of September 2020
Hello Lauren,
The pictures are amazing! Would you know if we can reach the trail start point via public transport from Hamilton?
Thanks
Lauren
Sunday 4th of October 2020
That's such a good question! I know you can definitely take the bus into Dundas from Hamilton. I think that's as far as you can take public transit. From that point, you may have to take an Uber the rest of the way.
reza
Sunday 27th of September 2020
Thanks Lauren for setting us this blog, It saved me several hours of driving time from Toronto to Hamilton which I was planning to do today before finding out from your page that restrictions are in place and need to have reservation before they let you in. And of course today being Sunday and the beautiful weather we are having today, the place was fully booked, no chance of getting in for today.
Your blog is full of valuable information, My big thank you to you for setting it up. All the best..
Lauren
Monday 28th of September 2020
Reza, I'm so happy to hear that I saved you a lot of time and disappointment! Hopefully you're able to book another time this fall to visit the Dundas Peak. Feel free to check out my other blog, Ontario Hiking (https://ontariohiking.com) for lots of great hiking trails around the province!