Facebook GroupThis site has all the ingredients of a great waterfall outing. There is a rockbed stream, high vertical rock cliffs, a short walk from free parking, and even an historic stone staircase to the bottom. The only thing missing is a waterfall; there isn't one!
To be clear, there is a waterfall of sorts at the head of the gorge. This is what I term the Salem Cascade (see entry). Unfortunately, this cascade is only partially visible from the road.
Fortuntely, the gorge itself is accessible from a staircase near Victoria Park. The stairs lead to the base of the cliffs, but anyone wishing to continue to the river bed has to travel further downslope, over rocky and uneven ground. Careful visitors, including families, have done this safely for years.
The Irvine Creek gorge connects to the much larger and beloved Elora Gorge at a point a few hundred metres downstream. But the Irvine Creek gorge is no slouch; vertical rock walls extend 10 to 15 m above the river bed. And unlike at the Elora Gorge, visitors here are allowed to access the river bed.
This site is coded yellow because of the significant elevation changes that have to be overcome. Also, from the bottom of the stairs, the route to the creek bed crosses much uneven ground and broken rock. To be clear, there are families visiting the creek bed all the time. But visitors are warned that this is not an easy route for everyone.
| Region | Greater Toronto |
|---|---|
| County | Wellington |
| Near | Elora |
| Watercourse | Irvine Creek |
| Watershed / % Lakes | 2 / 6% |
| Ownership | Town of Elora |
| Landscape | Urban |
| Size | Very Small |
| Type | Rock Run |
| Modification | Natural |
| Access | Moderate |
| Top / Bottom | Easy / Difficult |
| Trail conditions | Steep stairs, uneven rock |
| Hiking Time | 10 min |
| Coordinates | 43.6829,-80.4344 |
| Parking | 43.6826,-80.4339  |
| Site ID | WOO.WEL.006 |
You could be injured, lost, or die visiting waterfalls. You are responsible for your safety. Learn your Risks and Responsibilities.
You don't have permission to use this website unless you click and agree with the Full Disclaimer
Join our Facebook community to share tips, photos and updates. Operating since 2011, this well-moderated, respectful, and informative group is the hub of Ontario's waterfalling community. (Photo by Martin Van Opstal)
Driving
Weather
Hiking
