Chasing Waterfalls: A July Hike to Indian Falls in Owen Sound

If you’re anywhere near Owen Sound in July and looking for an easy escape into nature, do yourself a favour and check out Indian Falls. It’s one of those hidden gems that locals love and visitors are always surprised by.

I rolled up to the trailhead mid-morning with water bottles, bug spray, and questionable footwear (sneakers that definitely weren’t waterproof). The parking lot is free, which is always a win, and there’s a little picnic area and porta-potty—so it’s got the basics covered.

The trail itself is short—just under a kilometre one way—but it packs a punch. It starts out super chill with a flat boardwalk through a marshy area. In July, everything is lush. We’re talking dragonflies buzzing, frogs croaking, and that earthy summer smell of damp forest and sunbaked wood. Pure Ontario vibes.

Then the trail starts to climb, winding along the edge of a rocky ravine. You’ll want decent shoes for this part because it can get a little slippery, especially after rain. There are roots and rocks, and at one point you’re kind of hugging the escarpment—but it’s all part of the adventure.

And then... the waterfall. Indian Falls is a 15-metre-high curtain-style waterfall that just appears at the end of the trail like some kind of natural reward. In July, there’s usually a decent flow.

A couple things to note:

Bring bug spray. Seriously. The mosquitoes don’t mess around in the summer.

Watch your footing. Especially along the river bed. It’s beautiful but slippery.

Go early or late. It can get busy on weekends, and parking is limited.

So yeah—if you’re in the area and want a quick hike with big payoff, Indian Falls is 100% worth the detour. Just don’t forget your camera. Or better shoes than mine.