Joseph Howe Falls

Nestled among the dense forests and rocky gorges of Truro lies a true natural wonder — Joe Howe Falls. This picturesque cascade, standing approximately 15 meters high, is the crown jewel of the famous Victoria Park. Here, the waters of Lepper Brook plunge dramatically, creating a classic plunge-type waterfall surrounded by the sheer walls of an ancient canyon.

The site is known for its accessibility and incredibly peaceful atmosphere. Canada is rich in natural beauty, but this waterfall stands out for its integration into the urban environment: just a few minutes' walk from the park entrance, and you find yourself surrounded by wilderness. The falls are especially impressive in spring during the snowmelt or after heavy rains when the flow is at its most powerful.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the area around the waterfall offers guests an extensive network of trails totaling over 20 km. Named after the prominent politician and journalist Joseph Howe, this site has become a symbol of harmony between the historical heritage and natural majesty of Nova Scotia.

To check the latest information on trail conditions and park infrastructure, it is recommended to visit the city's official website.

The main attraction here is, of course, hiking along well-maintained routes. The path to the cascades leads through a scenic gorge where you can see the Witch's Cauldron—an unusual deep depression in the riverbed. The walk is accompanied by the sound of rushing water and birdsong, creating ideal conditions for forest therapy and relaxation.

For those who love active recreation and panoramic views, a climb up the famous Jacob's Ladder is a must. This 176-step staircase leads to the top of the hill. From the summit, breathtaking views open up not only of the waterfall itself but also of the Salmon and North river valleys, and on a clear day, you can even spot the distant shores of the Bay of Fundy.

In the summer season, a visit to the falls can be combined with leisure activities in Victoria Park itself. Weekly music concerts are held here, and outdoor pools and children's splash pads are available. Don't forget to bring your camera: the bridges at the base of the waterfall and the steep cliffs of the gorge provide a magnificent backdrop for nature photography.

Reaching this natural location is easy, as it is located practically within the city limits. The main entrance to Victoria Park is at 29 Park Rd. If you are traveling by car, convenient parking areas are provided. The coordinates of the waterfall for your GPS are: N 45° 21.185' W 063° 15.855'.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses run in Truro and will take you to the park boundaries, followed by a short walk. You can also always take a taxi from the city center—the ride will only take a few minutes.

From the main entrance, the scenic Park Road trail leads to your destination. This is an easy walking route of about 1.2 km, suitable even for novice hikers and families with children. The path passes through a beautiful gorge, allowing you to fully enjoy the fresh air before reaching the cascading waters.

Joe Howe Falls owes its name to the prominent Canadian politician, journalist, and poet Joseph Howe. In 1830, as the publisher of the influential newspaper The Novascotian, he visited these parts and was so impressed by their pristine beauty that the waterfall was named in his honor. Howe went down in history as a champion of press freedom, whose legendary courtroom speech in 1835 became a turning point for journalism in Canada.

Victoria Park itself, where the attraction is located, was officially founded in 1888. Its history began with a generous gesture by Susan Waddell Stevens, who donated the city's first 25 acres of land, which included the deep gorge and two waterfalls. Over time, the park's territory grew to an impressive 1,000 acres, becoming the region's main recreational hub.

Strolling through the park, you might come across a historical replica of the Holy Well. In ancient times, early Acadian settlers used this spring for baptismal rites. Preserved postcards from the early 20th century confirm that the waterfalls and surrounding trails have remained a favorite spot for walks and romantic dates for over a hundred years.

A visit to the waterfall itself and the nearest viewing platforms usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to walk leisurely from the parking lot along the Park Road trail, take memorable photos by the water, and even conquer the famous Jacob's Ladder.

If you plan to spend a full day of leisure in Victoria Park, it's worth setting aside half a day. The vast territory offers many additional routes, picnic areas, and seasonal activities that will make you want to stay longer and enjoy the peace and nature.

Victoria Park and the trails leading to the waterfall are generally open 24/7 as it is a public natural area. However, keep in mind that the routes are not lit at night, so it is best to plan your walks during daylight hours.

Please note that additional amenities, such as the canteen or swimming pool, operate on a seasonal schedule (mostly in summer). Before your trip, it is recommended to check the current status of the park on the Truro website, as access to certain sections may be temporarily restricted due to weather conditions or maintenance work.

After a walk by the cool mist of the waterfall, it is worth spending some time visiting other interesting sites located within walking distance. Exploring the surroundings of Victoria Park will help you learn more about the history and culture of this part of Nova Scotia.