Toronto Photo Gallery - Fall Colours #2
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

Located an hour west of Toronto in Hamilton, Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is home to the city's 2 most famous waterfalls as well as a panoramic viewpoint of fall colours.

Increasing popularity has resulted in a messier transport arrangement to reach the hiking trails. Visitors need to first park in a nearby lot and wait for school buses to drive the rest of the way. Long lines for the school buses are the norm.

The cost to enter the parking lot is $15 per car and $5 for each additional person after the driver. The cost also includes riding the shuttles, but you need to get a wristband first at the shuttle's information counter.

The school bus makes several stops along the way. Get off at Tew's Falls for the hiking trail up to Dundas Peak.

The ultimate spot for photos is a rocky outcropping with no barriers and a steep fall below. You are now on top of the Niagara Escarpment. With more aggressive selfie-takers, the number of rescues has skyrocketed in recent years, while park authorities have struggled to find a balance between nature conservation and safety. The crowds continue to come despite a steep admission cost during the busy autumn peak season.

The other side of the view faces Hamilton and Lake Ontario behind it.

With a number of rocks, the crowds can spread out a bit but this is a very popular location so wait in line patiently for your turn.

After you safely return from the lookout, head back on the same trail to the buses. I would suggest stopping by the waterfall on this trip instead of the start.

At the base of the trail are 2 lookout points for Tew's Falls.