In an unassuming portion of the southern Canadian Shield just north of Highway 7 near Tweed Ontario, you will find Westall Lane. The winding bumpy road, with its rough edges, and dense tree cover, foreshadows the majisty of the views that await. Although not marked as Crown Land, at the end of Westall Lane there is an entrance to the MRCA land on the Black River Managed by Quinte Conservation. If you have the opportunity to visit, you will discover the true essence of “Beautiful Ontario.” Discovering the beauty and pristine natural space in our province and then taking the time to enjoy it is an amazing experience. Each location is unique and whether it is a large, small, or in between waterfall it is something to be cherished.
Westall Falls and the views from the area : https://www.ontariowaterfalls.ca/category/ontariowaterfalls/?markerid=1426&mzoom=15
If you make your way back up on the trail at the right time of year you will see Canadian Trilliums (see below), the hike is so rich with a wonderful slopped wooded area with pristine quietness.
Making your way to the main Stash Falls, you must veer off the trail to the East. Just listen to the sound of moving water to orient yourself. There are many cuts that head towards the falls; it is not too far off the trail but proceed with caution. There are several great views from the top of the falls and easy access to climb down to the falls. There are great views from both sides of the river. To the North you will also see in the distance Upper Stash Falls.
Stash Falls : https://www.ontariowaterfalls.ca/category/ontariowaterfalls/?markerid=1167&mzoom=15
Upper Stash Falls, as you will see below offers more great views along the Black River. It is a short and easy hike from Stash Falls. There is a lot of scenery, ranging from small rapids to beautiful fern bushes and rock cutouts.
Upper Stash Falls: https://www.ontariowaterfalls.ca/category/ontariowaterfalls/?markerid=1593&mzoom=15
If you head back to the main trail and continue to head North on what I believe is an unopened road allowance, you are greeted by rustic views (see below) on the West Side.
At the end of the lane, keep going north. About 1 km up there is more green space. see below to the north along Croft Road.
Author, Jim Eadie (Found of Beautiful Ontario, Ontario Waterfalls, and Hike Ontario)
Jim Eadie’s love of the outdoors began at a very young age and has continued to grow over time. Fortunate to be brought up in an area full of rivers, lakes, forests, and natural beauty, Ontario has become his passion. He now shares this with his growing family by getting outdoors, exploring, and trying to cover as much ground. https://www.beautifulontario.ca/our-story/
A vivid description of your hike! Thank you for posting this walkabout. My husband and I are in Belleville and looking for places to explore/walk. I’ve saved this for the spring for us to do.
Our pleasure! Did you end up going? How was it?