Facebook GroupI had been chasing waterfalls in Ontario for 25 years before I actually made it to Jones Falls on the RIdeau River. I was under the impression that a dam and hydro works had all but eliminated the waterfall that once existed. I was wrong! There is a reall falls here, and it's a cool one!
On my visit in January, 2024, there was only a small flow over the falls. It is pretty clear that most of the flow is diverted for hydroelectric power. Three large penstocks can be seen to run downhill towards the power station.
In order to maintain a sufficient head of water, a very large and impressive arch-shaped stone dam was constructed. The walkway to the falls passes right over the dam, which, on most occasions will be more impressive than the falls. A viewing platform leads to a spot overlooking the dam and the penstocks, and includes an information panel.
The short walk to the falls leads to a small bridge over the river. Upstream, a further water level control dam and channel blasted through bedrock can be viewed. Downstream from the bridge, the falls takes a slide appearance, with water sliding down an inclined rock surface. Downstream, the river bends a bit and passes between inclined rock layers. During the highest flows, this would form a trough-style falls.
There is lots of bare bedrock downstream of the falls, which makes me wonder if high flows are periodically sent down this channel. My suspicion is that this only occurs during the spring freshet. Have you visited this site in early spring?
| Region | Eastern |
|---|---|
| County | Leeds and Grenville |
| Near | Jones Falls |
| Watercourse | Rideau River |
| Watershed / % Lakes | 3 / 31% |
| Ownership | Parks Canada |
| Landscape | Rural, forested |
| Size | Small |
| Type | Cascade |
| Modification | Water Level Control Dam, Regulated for hydroelectric power. |
| Access | Moderate |
| Top / Bottom | Easy / Difficult |
| Trail conditions | Gravel |
| Hiking Time | 5 min |
| Coordinates | 44.5476,-76.2383 |
| Parking | 44.5486,-76.236  |
| Site ID | WOO.LEE.005 |
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