Scenic Views · Fishing · Ontario

Elliott Falls

4.3 · 62 Google reviews

A small set of falls on the Gull River near Norland in Kawartha Lakes, ON, with a dam, a short forest trail and a spot for picnics and swimming. Free, but parking is small and on dirt.

Kawartha Lakes, OntarioKawartha Lakes, ON K0M 1K0, CanadaView: WaterfallAccess: Short walk (about 200 m) over the dam from the dirt parking lot at the end of Elliott Falls RoadBest time: Spring for the strongest flow; summer for swimmingFees: FreeFishing: The Gull River is open under Ontario's general regulations; check for any sanctuary near the dam in the current regulations.

What visitors say

Elliott Falls is a modest stretch of falls and rapids on the Gull River, a few minutes from Norland off Highway 35. A small hydro dam diverts some of the flow, so the falls are smaller than they once were, but visitors still like the clear water, the trees and the sound of the rapids. Most treat it as a quiet pit stop rather than a destination.

From the dirt parking lot you walk over the dam and follow a trail into the woods; the falls are about 200 metres downstream. There's a small boat launch and portable washrooms, though one older review found no toilets. Parking is free but limited.

People come to picnic, walk the trail and swim at the base of the falls on hot days. The Gull River is part of the Kawartha Lakes waterway and falls under Ontario's general fishing regulations, so bring a licence and check for any sanctuary rules near the dam before casting.

The footing near the water is uneven and can be dangerous, so wear good shoes and keep an eye on children. Bring bug spray in early summer, and pack out your garbage.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 62 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.