Spencer Gorge waterfalls are reopening for reservation-only access

Nature lovers of Hamilton should be thrilled to learn that the waterfalls and outdoor amenities as part of Spencer Gorge Conservation Area are officially reopening for public access; albeit, in a slightly different way than usual.

Locals looking to get some time in at Dundas Peak, Tew’s Falls, or Webster’s Falls will only be able to do so by reservation for the time being, according to the Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA).

Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, which includes Dundas Peak, Tew Falls and Webster Falls, will reopen September 19 with an advance reservation system in place for a 2-hour hike experience https://t.co/b5DTWfC3e9 pic.twitter.com/cOk3yH1NPq

— Hamilton CA (@Hamilton_CA) September 8, 2020

Though virtually all other conservation areas in Hamilton have already reopened for public access, the popularity of Spencer Gorge – coupled with its limited ability to allow for adequate physical distancing between visitors – has kept the site closed to the public for longer.

But now, through a new reservation system, locals can once again head to Spencer Gorge for safe, distanced visits that aren’t overcrowded by visitors.

The reservation system will be in place beginning September 19th and run through to November 15th, and will allow for bookings in two hour blocks beginning at 9 am, 12 pm, or 3 pm throughout the week. HCA recommends booking at least a day in advance to ensure a spot.

A reservation isn’t a package deal for all of Spencer Gorge, either. Those who want to visit will have to book time separately to visit their choice of the Dundas Peak, Tew’s Falls, or Webster’s Falls.

Admission fees, which are to be paid upon booking your reserved time, are $10 per vehicle and another $5 per person. Additionally, there will be a $10 reservation fee that applies to all visitors, including HCA annual passholders.

To learn more and book your reservations, check out the Hamilton Conservation Authority website.

Lead image courtesy of @pieceofcrop

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• conservation area
• coronavirus
• COVID-19
• Dundas
• Dundas Peak
• Hamilton
• HamOnt
• hiking
• nature
• outdoors
• pandemic
• physical distancing
• reopening
• Spencer Gorge
• Tews Falls
• Waterfall
• Websters Falls