Twenty Valley Trail
Hike the scenic Twenty Valley Trail, part of the Bruce Trail, featuring waterfalls, creek views, and challenging terrain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Twenty Valley Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the scenic Twenty Valley Trail, part of the Bruce Trail, featuring waterfalls, creek views, and challenging terrain.
"A challenging and fun hike with beautiful waterfalls, offering a great workout. "
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky and root-filled sections demand good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Status
Trails are maintained, but always good to check for any advisories. :information_desk:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Balls Falls Waterfalls
Balls Falls Conservation Area
Two stunning waterfalls cascade through the valley, offering picturesque views and a refreshing natural spectacle.
Twenty Valley Creek
Along the trail
Follow the winding creek through dense forest, enjoying the sounds of nature and the varied terrain.
Challenging Elevation Changes
Throughout the trail
Experience a rewarding workout with significant ups and downs, making it a great option for fitness enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Terrain
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky and root-filled sections demand good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Status
Trails are maintained, but always good to check for any advisories. :information_desk:
Pack Water & Snacks
No restrooms on the trail, so come prepared! :water_wave: :apple:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trail. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky and root-filled sections demand good hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Status
Trails are maintained, but always good to check for any advisories. :information_desk:
Pack Water & Snacks
No restrooms on the trail, so come prepared! :water_wave: :apple:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trail. :dog:
Road Crossings Ahead
Be aware of public road crossings along the route. :red_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Twenty Valley Trail for its beautiful waterfalls and challenging, rewarding terrain, making it a great workout. However, some find the cost for access and parking to be a bit high for the length of the hike, and the trail can be rocky and demanding for casual walkers.
"The Twenty Valley Trail is a challenging and fun hike along the Bruce Trail. You can take it all the way to Seventeenth Street and venture back. I parked at Balls Falls Conservation area and walked down towards this section of trail to access it. The trail is full of elevation changes and follows the Twenty Valley creek. Trails are well maintained however a little rocky at times. The trail does cross public roads so keep this in mind. The main sign mentions this stretch of trail is about a 45 minute hike however depending on your comfort level across the terrain it can take longer."
Alexander
"Trails are maintained! Some areas are rocky or have lots of tree roots so be aware of your limits.
Main trails are marked; there are lots of unmarked trails. Well mannered people & dogs throughout.
No restrooms on trail, fair warning"
DarkLittleMind
"Great hike, enjoyed it even though it wasn’t as easy as it looks but it’s a really nice workout"
Hiba
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is via Balls Falls Conservation Area, which offers parking. The trail is also accessible from other points along the Bruce Trail, but Balls Falls is a popular starting point.
Yes, parking is available at Balls Falls Conservation Area. Be aware that some sections of the trail may involve crossing public roads where parking might be more limited.
While Niagara-on-the-Lake is nearby (around 30 km), direct access to the Twenty Valley Trail from the city isn't typical. It's best to head towards Balls Falls Conservation Area for the main access points.
Public transport options might be limited directly to trailheads. Consider ride-sharing services or checking local transit routes that might get you close to Balls Falls Conservation Area.
While the trail itself is part of the Bruce Trail system, access through Balls Falls Conservation Area may have associated fees, especially for parking. Some visitors have noted costs for access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Twenty Valley Trail is part of the Bruce Trail, which is generally free to access. However, if you are parking at Balls Falls Conservation Area, there may be parking fees or conservation area entrance fees.
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, facilities at Balls Falls Conservation Area may have specific operating hours.
Advance booking is typically not required for the trail itself. If there are fees associated with Balls Falls Conservation Area, it's best to check their official website for any pre-booking options.
Weekends and holidays tend to be busier. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday can offer a more peaceful experience.
There are no age restrictions for hiking the Twenty Valley Trail. It's suitable for all ages, but the terrain can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is considered moderately challenging due to significant elevation changes, rocky sections, and tree roots. It offers a good workout.
A 45-minute hike is mentioned for a specific stretch, but this can vary greatly depending on your pace, fitness level, and how much of the trail you explore.
No, there are no restrooms directly on the Twenty Valley Trail. You'll need to use facilities at your starting point, like Balls Falls Conservation Area, before or after your hike.
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Twenty Valley Trail. It's a popular spot for dog owners.
The main trails are marked, but there are also many unmarked side trails. Stick to the marked paths for a clearer and safer experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the beauty of the Balls Falls waterfalls, the lush forest scenery along the creek, and the dramatic elevation changes. Golden hour light can be stunning here.
Absolutely! The combination of waterfalls, creek, and varied terrain provides excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfalls and expansive forest views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for long exposures of the water.
The areas around Balls Falls offer the most prominent viewpoints. As you hike along the creek, keep an eye out for scenic spots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with Balls Falls Conservation Area and local authorities regarding drone operation policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Key tips for families:
* Choose shorter routes: Stick to the more accessible parts near Balls Falls to avoid overexertion.
* Pack plenty of snacks and water: There are no facilities on the trail.
* Wear sturdy shoes: The terrain can be rocky and uneven.
* Make it fun: Turn the hike into a game or nature scavenger hunt.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider tackling longer sections of the trail or exploring the various side trails to maximize your workout. The varied landscape ensures you won't get bored, and the natural beauty provides a great backdrop to your fitness efforts. Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's a fantastic place to get your canine companion some exercise amidst beautiful natural scenery. Important considerations for dog owners:
* Leash your dog: Always keep your dog on a leash for the safety of other hikers and wildlife.
* Bring water: Ensure your dog has enough water, especially on warmer days.
* Clean up: Always pick up after your dog.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bruce Trail System
Many hikers use the Twenty Valley Trail as part of a longer Bruce Trail journey or as a standalone hike. Its connection to Balls Falls Conservation Area makes it a convenient access point for exploring this particular stretch. Remember that while the main Bruce Trail is well-marked, numerous side trails can lead you deeper into the conservation areas, so always carry a map or use a reliable navigation app.
For those interested in the broader Bruce Trail experience, consider planning a multi-day hike or exploring other sections of the Niagara Escarpment. The Twenty Valley Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience within this magnificent natural corridor.
Family Adventures on the Trail
+1When hiking with children, it's advisable to stick to shorter, well-marked sections and be mindful of the trail's rocky and uneven surfaces. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is crucial, as there are no facilities along the trail itself. Consider making the hike a game, like a scavenger hunt for interesting rocks or plants, to add an extra layer of fun.
Many families enjoy the accessible parts of the trail near Balls Falls, allowing younger children to experience the natural beauty without overexertion. The presence of dogs on the trail also adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a pleasant outing for the whole family, including furry members.
Photography Tips for Twenty Valley Trail
Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can cast a magical light over the valley, enhancing the natural beauty and creating dramatic shadows. Using a wide-angle lens will help you capture the grandeur of the waterfalls and the expansive forest. If you plan on capturing the movement of water, a tripod is essential for achieving smooth, silky water effects with longer exposure times.
Remember to also look for smaller details: the intricate patterns of moss on rocks, sunlight filtering through the dense canopy, or the textures of tree bark. The trail's varied terrain also offers opportunities for capturing interesting foreground elements in your landscape shots. Always be mindful of your surroundings and the trail conditions while you're focused on getting the perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit