Facebook GroupThis is a really small plunge waterfall that can be reached from Mystery Falls. The hike to Mystery Falls can be extended into a loop. That loop continues downstream from the falls and after reaching the Ausable River, follows the river back south. It eventually turns left, away from the river, and follows the closed right-of-way for Elm Tree Drive. This returns to the parking area.
The tiny waterfall is found just upstream of a small footbridge that enables hikers to cross the equally tiny stream. A thin, but resistant layer of limestone pokes through the tiny valley and does just enough to create a small falls.
To be sure, do not expect much of anything here! I reached the falls during a reasonably wet period in April and it was still almost dry. It may be worth visiting this site immediately after a heavy spring rain.
What is interesting about this waterfall is that it is actually one of at least a dozen in the Ausable River valley. Several are larger than this one. In a way, this area is analagous to the cluster of small waterfalls that we see in the Short Hills Provincial Park. The falls here, however, are mostly much smaller and even more seasonal.
Visitors that hike from Mystery Falls should be aware that they will have to cross the creek to continue on the loop path. I wore rubber boots and could do it. Anyone in hiking shoes may get wet if water levels are higher. NOTE: This waterfall is coded yellow because of some steep hills and wet sections.
| Region | Lake Huron |
|---|---|
| County | Middlesex |
| Near | Arkona |
| Watercourse | Ausable River (tributary) |
| Watershed / % Lakes | 0 / 0% |
| Ownership | Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority |
| Landscape | Rural, forested |
| Size | Very Small |
| Type | Plunge |
| Modification | Natural |
| Access | Challenging |
| Top / Bottom | Moderate / Moderate |
| Trail conditions | Dirt, steep hills, wet spot |
| Hiking Time | 30 min |
| Coordinates | 43.1079,-81.8146 |
| Parking | 43.1027,-81.8092  |
| Site ID | WOO.MID.003 |
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