Waterfalls, Hiking and More: Hilton Falls Conservation Area

Hilton Falls is one of the 8 Halton Conservation Areas and possibly our favourite. It’s less crowded than the more popular areas, and its amenities make it worth a visit (or two) every season. No matter when you visit Hilton Falls in Milton, Ontario you’ll get to experience a beautiful hike, a waterfall exploration and even ruins from long ago.

Hilton Falls Walkway

short walk to the falls

My family explored the yellow trail. This Hilton Falls trail is open and is the direct route to the falls themselves. The hiking trail is scenic, clean, safe, stroller-friendly and takes about 45 minutes to get to the falls. There are a few trails that take you off the direct route which are not stroller friendly – parts are very rocky and a lot have cliffs and drop-offs.

There are three bike trails consisting of everything from beginner level to very rocky and steep terrain. We did see quite a few older kids riding their bikes on the yellow trail.

There is a washroom in the Visitor Centre at the entrance to the park, and we passed a “rest house” along the yellow trail which was clean and had a place to clean your hands.

Hilton Falls Stream

Hilton Falls and The Mill Ruins

The waterfalls and Mill Ruins didn’t disappoint. Remember to bring your camera! They are located almost beside each other at the end of the hike. Hilton Falls Conservation Area and the falls are open year-round. You can also use these trails for mountain biking in the warm months and cross-country skiing when the snow comes.

There is a nice rest/eating area right before the falls with picnic tables. In the winter, this spot is home to a fire pit that you can warm up by, or roast your own marshmallows and hotdogs over!

You get to the falls via a staircase through the rocks. You are allowed to stand in the falls, which is refreshing on a hot summer day and a great photo op! When you visit in the winter months, you’ll be delighted if the waterfall freezes over. There is just something so magical about a frozen waterfall.

There are rocks that you can walk on that take you to a different part of the falls. We found it less busy here. If you or your kids like frogs or snakes, chances are you’ll see some here during the summer months. We did!

hilton falls and ruins in milton ontario
Hilton Falls, small but stunning

More About Hilton Falls Conservation Area

There is no playground at Hilton Falls Conservation Area, but my boys, who are 5 and 7, still had a great time. There are many places to stop along the way if someone needs a break or a drink. They have a few labelled rest areas, but some logs have been made into cute benches too.

Except for the falls, the hiking area is shaded by mature trees which is a nice reprieve from the summer sun. Fall colours make the canopy even more beautiful. When you visit Hilton Falls in the winter, the trails and snow-covered branches are definitely photo-worthy.

Features & Amenities:

  • Free parking (huge lot)
  • Picnic tables throughout
  • Renovated Visitor Centre with washrooms
  • “Rest House” (a fancy outhouse that my son said looked like a big pipe)
Staircase at Hilton Falls Conservation Area
Take the stairs down to the base of the waterfall

Notes from Sandra:

  • Bring water – there are no water stations
  • Some garbage cans, but they were only noticed at the main entrance and the entrance to the falls
  • Keep pets leashed

Hilton Falls Conservation Area is located at 4985 Campbellville Road in Milton. It is a part of Conservation Halton and is currently open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm seven days a week. If you have a Conservation Halton Parks membership, it’s free. If you don’t, it’s $12 + HST for adults, $9.75 + HST for seniors, $8.75 + HST for children and free for those under 5. Reservations are recommended though not required.

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