Not too far from Hamilton, Ontario is a cool place where you can see limestone karsts. The Eramosa Karst Conservation Area is a place to not only hike but also learn about geology.

It’s full of porous limestone rocks and crevices in the ground. Some are large enough to slip into – they are essentially small caves.

What few people in Ontario know is that there are many areas in this province where karsts are found. This is one of these places that has been designated a Conservation Area.


What Is Eramosa Karst?

Karst topography has porous rock eroded by water over time creating cenotes, caves, and sinkholes. The Eramosa Karst is one such place that has sinkholes and caves.

With over four kilometers of hiking trails, this Eramosa Karst Conservation Area offers a lesson on local geology and an easy walk in a natural setting.

Hiking trail at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area

There are some photo-worthy trails at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area. This is true at any time of the year, however, more so in the late Spring and Summer when a carpet of lush vegetation covers the forest.

| Related: Exploring Caves And Hiking Trails At Rockwood Conservation Area


Easy Trails For The Family To Enjoy

The trails are fairly easy, so it’s fine to bring kids along. No Escarpment views mean that it’s pretty safe, but you should watch out for crevices where they can accidentally fall into.

Erosion has created some interesting holes in the ground and small caves. While it’s not safe to squeeze yourself in there, they are nevertheless cool to check out.

Limestone rocks at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area near Hamilton
The porous limestone rocks are everywhere along the trails.

The trails at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area aren’t very long, so a hike here is fairly short. Grab a few snacks and comfortable hiking boots. Proper footwear will help with checking out the caves.

Limestone rocks at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area near Hamilton

Our visit was a memorable one, and I really loved the hike around the area. Frank wanted to check out the tiny holes in the ground more than I did!

and I really loved the hike around the area. Frank wanted to check out the tiny holes in the ground more than I did!

It’s run by Hamilton Conservation and is located on Upper Mount Albion Road in Stoney Creek. It’s approximately an hour and a half away from Toronto.

Karsts and caves at Eramosa Karst Conservation Area near Stoney Creek, Ontario

Directions To Eramosa Karst

Eramosa Karst Conservation Area is located at Upper Mount Albion and Highland Road West in Hamilton (Stoney Creek). It’s approximately one hour away from downtown Toronto in moderate traffic.

Since you’re near Hamilton, if you’re doing a day of exploring in the area, make sure to stop in and check out some of the many waterfalls the city for which the city is famous. Or head down to the waterfront and do the Bayfront Park trails with views of Burlington Bay.

QUESTION: Have you ever explored caves in Ontario? Tell us about your experiences.

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Author

Margaret Bourne is a blog coach and strategist, with over 18 years of experience in marketing and public relations. She helps aspiring bloggers build and grow professional online businesses. A wife, and mom to a little boy, she also occasionally shares lifestyle-related stories through her Suburban Tourist blog.

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