No flip flops, dress shoes, high heels or sandals are permitted when visiting the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, Ontario. There’s a good reason for this strict rule.
The Scenic Caves attraction in Collingwood is a do-it-yourself walk through rocky terrain including slippery mud, snow, and ice. Yes, even in May there’s ice at the bottom of the huge crevices and caves.
But oh, how wonderful it is to do something different, away from home for a change!
We all love a little bit of adventure at times, no?
While it may be a touristy attraction, don’t be fooled into thinking you won’t need to break a sweat getting down into the Scenic Caves.
We’ll get more into that in just a second!
| Related: Things To Do Near Owen Sound, Ontario
Short Day Trip From Toronto
I’ve put the Scenic Caves on my list of recommended day trips from Toronto because it’s fairly close and easy to get to on a summer’s day.
If you head out early in the morning, you’re likely to get to the Scenic Caves before they get too busy.
A good time of the year to go is in Spring, when the weather is just about right for a day trip.
Geological History: Exploring The Scenic Caves In Collingwood
The Scenic Caves in Collingwood are situated about 400 meters above sea level, up in the Blue Mountain area just west of Collingwood.
The caves and cliffs formed in the time between approximately 450 and 250 million years ago. They are a part of the Niagara Escarpment, which experienced glacial erosion over millions of years.
In more recent times, these caves were spiritual spots for the Petun and Huron First Nations which lived in the region.
During our visit, we learned about the different cliffs, clefts, and caves at the site and the First Nations legends associated with them. A numbered trail, including steps, led down into the crevices, making it easy to follow along.
You will notice when you get down into the limestone crevices that the temperature will drop dramatically.
You may even see snow on the ground and see your breath mist up (if visiting in May or later in the early fall period). It’s a refreshing feeling after the sweat-inducing climb up to reach the caves, particularly on a warm, humid day.
For those who are slim, the Fat Man’s Misery – a cave in which you have to squeeze your body through a 36 cm gap – is something to try. It’s not for claustrophobic types, buxom women (like me!) or anybody with a spare tire (that’s me too!).
Getting A View Of The Collingwood Area From The Suspension Bridge
The Scenic Caves in Collingwood also has a suspension bridge that offers a fantastic, unimpeded view of Georgian Bay and the surrounding area.
It may not be for those who are wary of heights, or shaky bridges.
Our visit to the bridge was marred by a group of teenage boys who thought it would be fun to walk in such a way that made the bridge sway dramatically from one side to the other and up and down. Boys will be boys!
A few hours drive north from Toronto, this spot offers a couple of hours of exploring. Basic entry (caves and suspension bridge) is reasonable: visitor packages and pricing info on the Scenic Caves site.
The cave visits are open in the spring, summer, and fall. Other activities including skiing, snowshoeing and treetop walking are available in the winter.
NOTE: They also have a zipline feature if you like speed and the wind in your hair!
| Related: A Spiritual First Nations Spot At Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Tips For Your Visit
For your visit to the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, you’ll need to pack a few things before you go!
Things can get a little bit chilly down in the caves. So grab a hoodie or light sweater, even if it’s a hot June day.
Secondly, bring a pair of sturdy shoes that are good for climbing around on the rocks in the cave area. You don’t want to twist an ankle. Either good walking shoes with treads, running shoes or hiking boots with good ankle support are a must-have for this site. There’s the option of purchasing running shoes in the gift shop. But why spend money on new shoes, when you can just bring them with you?
Finally, bring something to eat and drink in a cooler, and have a little bite to eat after you finish exploring. Your visit and the exercise can spark an appetite.
Directions To The Scenic Caves In Collingwood
From Collingwood, drive west on First Street to the First Street extension. Continue west on Mountain Road which becomes Grey Road 19. Continue on Grey 19, merge into the Roundabout. Exit the Roundabout on Scenic Caves Road. Follow this road to the top of the hill.
Enjoy Your Visit!
Related: Places To Explore Near Owen Sound On A Day Trip From Toronto
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3 Comments
was it free, or did you use a cheesy tour trap
No, I’ve noted it isn’t free. It’s a private property that is open to the public for a fee.
As for cheesey, I wouldn’t say it is so. It’s actually quite cool to go down into the caves, something you can’t easily do at other conservation areas and provincial parks.