A Late November Hike to Swayze Falls

Sometimes you just need to get out, breathe some fresh air, and stretch those legs, right? That’s exactly what I did this weekend with a hike to Swayze Falls in Short Hills Provincial Park. Spoiler alert: it was totally worth it.

So, here’s the deal—Swayze Falls isn’t one of those towering, thunderous waterfalls that makes you go “wow” from a mile away. Nope, it’s more like the quiet, shy friend you didn’t realize you needed. The kind that sneaks up on you with its calm vibes and makes you want to hang out forever.

The hike to get there was great. The trails are well-marked but not overly groomed, so you still feel like you’re out in the wild. The forest? Pure magic. Tall trees, crunchy leaves underfoot, and just enough sunlight peeking through the branches to make you feel like you’re walking through a nature movie. I even passed a little creek that made me stop for a second just to appreciate how peaceful it all was.

When I finally got to the falls, I almost didn’t notice them at first. It’s not the loud, look-at-me kind of waterfall—it’s more subtle. Water gently flows over a rocky edge, creating this soothing, low-key vibe that’s perfect for a little break. I sat down on a nearby rock, pulled out a granola bar (because what’s a hike without snacks?), and just chilled for a while.

The best part? It wasn’t crowded. I didn’t have to awkwardly wait for a group of people to finish taking selfies to enjoy the view. It was just me, the sound of water, and the occasional bird chirping.

If you’re thinking about checking it out, do it! Wear good hiking shoes because the trails can get a bit muddy, and bring some water—you’ll need it, especially if you’re hiking in warmer weather. Oh, and don’t forget your camera or phone. Swayze Falls may not scream Instagram, but it’s got a quiet beauty you’ll want to remember.

Would I go back? 100%. It’s the perfect little escape when you want to get away without going too far. Swayze Falls, you’ve got a fan in me.