Hog's Back Falls

Hog's Back Falls is a waterfall system on the Rideau River in Ottawa where the Rideau Canal separates from the main river and water drops through a series of cascades. The falls form where the river flows over rock formations, creating a dramatic natural feature in the middle of the city.

Engineer John By built a dam at this location in 1831 after earlier attempts had failed, transforming the original Three Rock Rapids into the current waterfall formation. This structure became part of the larger Rideau Canal project that helped shape the city.

The name comes from a rocky ridge where timber rafts would catch and become stranded during river transport. This detail reflects how the river shaped daily life and commerce before the modern waterfall was created.

The best views of the falls are from observation areas on both sides of the river, accessible via a sidewalk from the parking area east of Hog's Back Bridge. The walkway is flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

The site reveals visible rock formations from the Ordovician period, including green sandstones of the Rockcliffe Formation and limestone layers. These geological layers tell a story reaching back millions of years, showing how this location was once underwater.

GPS coordinates: 45.37101,-75.69659

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42