Ontario, Canada
Tew's Falls is located inside the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area approximately 57 miles from Niagara Falls. It is part of a trail system that includes Webster's Falls and the Dundas Peak Overlook. Paid parking is required for this conservation area at a cost of $10/car using an electronic ticketing kiosk that takes cash or credit card. If you prefer not to hike the 1/2 mile trail connecting the waterfalls, each has its own parking area and you can use your parking ticket at either. However, the overlook can only be reached by hiking which starts by walking up a set of steps nearest to Tew's Falls.
From the observation area, it is somewhat difficult at either waterfall to get a full picture of the falls without vegetation getting partially in the way. I felt very tempted to climb the fence to get closer, but the drops here are deadly steep. One slip and I seriously doubt if anyone could recover before plummeting to uncertain injury or death. However, find the steps to the left of Tew's Falls and you will discover a second observation platform where you can get a much better (unobstructed) view.
Tew's Fall is approximately 135 feet tall and 30 feet wide. I'm told the falls are best viewed in the spring because they tend to dry up by mid-summer. The u-shape of the surrounding cliffs makes it feel kinda like you're looking inside a giant stone bowl. The walk to the observation deck from the parking area will take the average person less than a few minutes. If you choose to hike to Dundas Peak, please be careful because most of the trail has an insanely steep drop off to the right without any sort of railing. I found myself constantly worried for my children and made sure they stayed as far to the left side of the trail as possible.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Beautiful conservation area that is part of the Niagara escarpment (sudden change in height of land, fracture) that runs from Wisconsin through lower Ontario into Western New York. Hamilton, Ontario is home to nearly 100 beautifully unique waterfalls and/or cascades, so you could easily spend an entire day here touring the area if you are planning to visit Niagara Falls. Be sure to bring your camera. read more