Facebook GroupIn earlier versions of this web site and the Waterfalls of Ontario book, this waterfall was called 'Kingston Mills Falls'. I made this name as a placeholder and it seems to have stuck, appearing now on other websites. OK, it makes sense that others might have chosen this name too, but it is my undersanding the generally accepted historical name is Cataraqui Falls.
It is a small to moderate-sized cascade of limited interest. The total fall is estimated at about 4-5 m in height, increasing in width as it tumbles over well-worn igneous rock at an angle of about 30-40 degrees. The falls are found on an exposure of massive granite and granodiorite.
In summer, much water is diverted to the hydroelectric plant, leading to low flow. To see the falls up close (sort of), visitors follow the gravel driveway down from the 19th century blockhouse and turn left. This route soon reaches river level just downstream from the falls. Unfortunately, a fenced off portion of the hydro plant blocks part of the view and access to the falls area. It can be difficult to get a good photo of this waterfall. Land on the far side of the river belongs to a private residence.
The medicore access to this waterfall is made up for by a bunch of neat heritage at the site. The falls are just east of Locks 46 to 49 on the Rideau Canal, and visitors can freely roam around the locks area for some distance. The 19th century military blockhouse is pretty cool. A high railway bridge is supported by massive stone piers and crosses above the site. Finally, the river flows away from the falls site through a deep gorge, parts of which can be viewed near the falls, but also by making your way to the lowest lock.
NOTE: Anyone that chooses to visit the site needs to stay away from the steep vertical drops around the locks and their associated stone staircases.
| Region | Eastern |
|---|---|
| County | Frontenac |
| Near | Kingston Mills |
| Watercourse | Cataraqui River |
| Watershed / % Lakes | 3 / 29% |
| Ownership | Parks Canada |
| Landscape | Rural |
| Size | Small |
| Type | Cascade |
| Modification | Regulated for Hydroelectric Power. |
| Access | Easy |
| Top / Bottom | Easy to view / Moderate |
| Trail conditions | Gravel |
| Hiking Time | 5 min |
| Coordinates | 44.2934,-76.4402 |
| Parking | 44.2925,-76.4439  |
| Site ID | WOO.FRO.003 |
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