Spencer Gorge Reservations Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are required during the fall colour season, from late September to early November. At any other time of the year, visitation is on a first-come, first-served basis.
In the past, Spencer Gorge has experienced high visitor volumes and crowding on its trail system and viewing platforms, particularly during the fall colour season. Traffic congestion in the surrounding community also created safety concerns. The reservation system helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by guaranteeing a parking space and reducing overcrowding.
Reservations are available in 2-hour or 4-hour time slots, depending on the hiking experience you choose. This provides plenty of time to explore the area you’ve booked and take as many photos as you’d like. You may arrive up to 30 minutes after your reservation begins, but you must leave by the end of your reserved time, so we recommend arriving on time.
No. Reservations are location-specific and are not transferable between areas. Separate reservations are required for Webster Falls and Dundas Peak/Tew Falls unless you book the 4-hour Spencer Gorge hiking experience.
You can! The 4-hour Spencer Gorge hiking experience allows you to visit both areas during a single reservation. We recommend visiting Dundas Peak first, followed by Webster Falls, as the hike to Webster Falls is easier.
Visit hcareservations.ca, click the “Spencer Gorge” tab, then select your location, date, and the number of people travelling in your vehicle.
No. Each reservation is valid for one vehicle only. If your group is arriving in two vehicles, you’ll need to make two separate reservations.
Reservations open nine days in advance at 7 AM.
No. Walk-up, drive-up, and same-day reservations are not available. Reservations must be made online by midnight the day before your visit.
Yes. HCA Membership Pass holders must reserve online. Admission and parking are included with your membership; however, the $10 reservation fee still applies.
Your membership is applied during Step 5, “Additional Info”. Select the HCA Member rate and enter your HCA Membership card number to receive your admission and parking discount.
If you’re being dropped off by friends, family, taxi, or rideshare, please note that drop-offs must occur at the gatehouse. Pedestrian entry from the road is not permitted. When making your reservation, you can enter “N/A” in the vehicle information section to proceed. However, please be aware that each reservation includes a parking fee for a specific parking spot, and this fee cannot be waived in advance. Upon arrival, our gate attendant can refund the $11.00 parking fee if no vehicle is being parked.
Non-Members
Per vehicle: $11.00
Per passenger over 5 years of age: $5.50
Reservation fee: $10.00
HCA Members
HCA Membership Pass holders must reserve online. Admission and parking are included with your membership; however, the $10 reservation fee still applies.
A staff member will ask to see your reservation confirmation and verify the number of people listed on your reservation. If more people arrive than were included in your reservation, you’ll be required to pay admission for the additional guests before entering. Once your reservation has been verified, you can park and enjoy your visit to Spencer Gorge.
No. Picnicking and BBQs are not permitted at Spencer Gorge. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a picnic before or after your visit, Christie Lake is just around the corner.
Your day doesn’t have to end at Spencer Gorge. With proof of payment, you can visit any other staffed HCA conservation area on the same day as your Spencer Gorge reservation.
