The Grotto Waits for You to Discover Its Wonder

The Grotto is Bruce County’s most popular attraction, a bustling hot spot visited by hundreds of thousands of people every year. It’s one of Ontario’s most scenic destinations. Its turquoise pool of water and intricate cave structures are mesmerizing!

The Grotto at The Bruce Peninsula National Park

First things first, reserve your parking with Parks Canada before you visit.

The Grotto at Bruce Peninsula National Park in Tobermory, Ontario is Bruce County’s most popular attraction. Hidden away along the rugged shores of the Bruce Peninsula, the Grotto is a geological marvel. Picture crystal-clear waters, dramatic caves and limestone cliffs overlooking Georgian Bay.

Located at the Cyprus Lake Road entrance to the Park, the Grotto is one of our premier destinations and visitors travel from all over the world to hike out on the Bruce Trail to see this iconic feature. 

Prepare for your trip so you can have the best adventure to the Grotto.

Hiking the Grotto

The hike through the park to reach the Grotto in Tobermory takes about 45 minutes each way. Along the way, you’ll see diverse wetlands, ancient cedar trees spiraling from cliff-edges, a multitude of orchids and ferns, birds, and so much more! The cave itself is stunning, carved from ancient limestone and filled with the crystal clear, pristine turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. You can walk along a ledge inside its cavity or, if you’re brave enough, even take a swim inside!

Remember to wear comfortable clothing, pack essentials like sunscreen and water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Best Time to Visit the Grotto

Visitors love seeing the Grotto during July and August. This means, the Grotto parking reservations fill up quickly in the summer. Be aware of the summer crowds and how to plan for the best memorable experience.

Better yet, we suggest fall, winter or spring as it is the best time to visit the Grotto and the Bruce Peninsula.

Embrace the Magic, Preserve the Wonder

It’s our responsibility to leave nature untouched and preserve its beauty for future generations. When visiting the Grotto, let’s prioritize sustainable travel practices. Here are a few tips to help you leave no trace:

1. Pack in, pack out: Be mindful of the waste you generate. Bring reusable water bottles, food containers and bags to pack out any trash and minimize your impact.
2. Stay on designated trails: Stick to marked paths to protect fragile ecosystems and prevent damage to flora and fauna. Resist the urge to venture off-trail.
3. Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or disturb them. Remember, they are the rightful inhabitants of this land, and our presence should not disrupt their natural behaviour.
4. Capture memories, not souvenirs: Take plenty of photographs but resist the temptation to collect natural souvenirs like rocks or seashells. Leave them where they belong, as each element plays a vital role in the delicate ecosystem.

By adopting these sustainable practices, we can ensure that the Grotto remains a natural wonder for generations to come.

Escape the Crowds

Is the Grotto full? Yearning for a tranquil escape where you can truly connect with nature and immerse yourself in the local culture?

Escape to Southern Bruce County and experience a truly authentic and unforgettable getaway. Here are some great things to do in Bruce County when the Grotto is full.