Scenic Caves – In My Own Backyard

The Scenic Caves, with their fascinating geological formations, lush forests, and stunning views, provide those who have the desire to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, with a sanctuary and an opportunity to reconnect with the raw, unspoiled splendor of nature.

The Scenic Caves Nature Adventures located just outside of Collingwood, a resort town nestled along the shores of Georgian Bay, are known for its captivating geological formations, pristine forests, and awe-inspiring vistas.

As you embark on a journey through the Scenic Caves, you will discover a world of wonder that combines the splendors of the great outdoors with the rich history and ecological diversity of this remarkable region. From rugged trails and suspension bridges to ancient geological wonders, these caves are a testament to the timeless allure of Collingwood’s natural treasures.

The earliest records of this area were written by Samuel de Champlain and the Jesuit missionaries, who lived with the Huron and Peton peoples.

Join me and let’s explore the magic and mystique of the Scenic Caves in Collingwood.

Getting To The Scenic Caves In Collingwood

Getting to the Scenic Caves in Collingwood from Toronto is a relatively straightforward journey, and there are several routes you can take depending on your preferences. Here’s one common route:

1. Take Highway 401 West: Start by heading west on Highway 401 from Toronto.
2. Exit onto Highway 400 North: After approximately 100 kilometers (about 60 miles), take the exit for Highway 400 North.
3. Continue on Highway 400 North: Stay on Highway 400 North for about 90 kilometers (about 56 miles).
4. Take the Exit for Highway 26 West: Exit onto Highway 26 West towards Collingwood.
5. Follow Highway 26 to the Scenic Caves: Continue on Highway 26 West for approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) until you reach the town of Collingwood. The Scenic Caves are well-signed and can be easily found once you’re in the Collingwood area.

Once you arrive in Collingwood you can follow local signs and directions to reach the Scenic Caves, which are located on Scenic Caves Road, just outside the town.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Scenic Caves?

The Scenic Caves Nature Adventures are open year-round, however, depending on when you go, not all activities will be available.

Visiting The Scenic Caves In The Winter And Spring:

Cold whether enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Scenic Caves during the Winter as there are groomed cross-country ski trails. If you don’t have your own ski’s, rentals are available, as are snow shoes.

Reservations for access to the trails and rental equipment are not available and are on a first come first served basis. I recommend arriving early in the morning or visiting during the weekdays in order to avoid disappointment, as a limited number of visitors are allowed entry.

For visitors wanting to explore the caves, the Winter and Spring months aren’t ideal, as the caves are closed to visitors for safety reasons. However, there are many hiking trails that are still open for visitors to explore.

Winter Cross-Country Trail Map

Winter Snowshoe Trail Map

Visiting The Scenic Caves In The Summer And Fall

The Summer months is the best time to visit the Scenic Caves if you want to explore everything that the Scenic Caves has to offer.

Whether you choose to hike one of the 15 km trails, try your hand at ziplining, or walk across the 420 foot suspension bridge, visiting the Scenic Caves during the warmer months will provide a full day of fun and adventures.

Summer Trail Map

The Caves At The Scenic Caves Nature Adventures

When visiting the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, you will have the opportunity to explore 17 caves which were naturally carved millions of years ago by glacial ice.

Let’s explore these magnificant caves:

Natural Refrigerator:

The Natural Refrigerator maintains a steady flow of cool air which keeps it cooler throughout the summer months. This cave offered the Natives the ideal spot to store their food.

Ice Cave:

When entering the Ice Cave, you will feel a gradual decline in the temperature as you descend into the cave. This cave may not always be accessible, as the snow and ice often remains through to July.

First View:

The First View offers visitors a spectacular view of Collingwood, Wasaga Beach and the Nottawasaga Bay.

Petun Trail:

The Petun Trail is part of the original Bruce Trail which runs from Niagara Falls to Tobermory.

Maiden’s Love:

Folklore tells of a Petun woman falling in love with a member of another tribe. It’s said that the jealous men from her tribe ambushed him and threw him over the cliff. The woman was so devastated that she followed her lover.

Signal Point:

The stunning vista of Signal Point offers visitors a spectacular view of approximately 10,000 square kilometers from an elevation of approximately 550 meters above sea level.

Council Chamber:

The rock formation created a secure spot for the Petun chiefs to hold their council meetings.

Ekarenniondi:

It is believed that the Ekarenniondi was the spot would remove the brains of the dead. It was believed that the afterlife would be happier because their souls would no longer remember their earthly existance.

Fat Man’s Misery:

Even though I opted to walk around this cave, it was my favourite cave. Upon entering visitors will see a sign warning them that the exit is only a mere 36 centimetres wide. If you choose to enter and don’t think you will be able to exit, you can turn around and exit through the entrance.

Fern Cave:

In this Cave, visitors will see some very unique types of ferns growing. Do not touch or remove these ferns.

Preacher’s Pulpit:

It is believed that the cavern walls were separated by ice movement in the Glacial Age. The walls of the cavern are lined with limestone.

Petun Arch:

This is the area where it’s believed that the Petun people stood guard, as certain parts could be sealed off to trap enemies.

Native Chief:

Once you pass through this area of the caves, turn around and look to your right. There is a natural rock formation which resembles the head of the Native Chief.

Petun Fortress:

This part of the caves made it almost impossible for enemy tribes to ambush the defenders. This is the only area throughout the caves that has four exits, one in each direction of a compass.

Bear Cave:

For obvious reasons, this is where the early settlers believe that the black bear hibernated (yes there are bears in this area of Ontario).

Lone Rock:

The Lone Rock is another natural structure of limestone which displays thousands of years of geological and human history.

Chasm Trail:

The Chasm Trail is a narrow opening surrounded by moss-covered limestone walls.

Things To Know Before Visiting The Scenic Caves In Collingwood

1. Check the website prior to visiting the Scenic Caves to see prices, and hours of operation.

2. While there are many things available to occupy children including the hiking trails, exploring the caves, walking the suspension bridge, and even a children’s playground, caution needs to be taken when exploring the caves as there are many rocky areas which can become slippery.

3. While there are areas of the Scenic Caves which are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the caves and many trails aren’t accessible.

4. Hiking shoes or sneakers are required to be worn. Sandals and flipflops are not recommended.

5. There are plenty of picnic tables and I recommend bringing a picnic if you are planning on spending the day. There is a small booth where you can purchase drinks.

6. Allow a minimum of 2 hours to explore some of the trails, the suspension bridge, and the caves.

Living Water Resort & Spa, Collingwood, Ontario – A Resort Review

Exploring The Scenic Caves: In Conclusion …

Visiting the Scenic Caves in Collingwood is an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the heart and soul. As we conclude our journey through this captivating natural wonder, we reflect on the awe-inspiring beauty of this extraordinary place.

The Scenic Caves not only offer a glimpse into the Earth’s geological history but also provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you explored the winding caverns, traversed the suspension bridge with its panoramic views, or simply wandered through the pristine forests, you’ve witnessed the magic of nature in its purest form.

Happy Hiking 🙂

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