Ontario is a great place to be if you love the outdoors. The province is full of lush forests, majestic hikes, and, of course, waterfalls. As stunning as these cascading streams of water are, it's nice to chase something different for a change. Next time you're in need of an adventure, take a trip to these Ontario natural wonders — they aren't just another waterfall.
These incredible spots around the province will give you major wanderlust.
Instead of taking another road trip to Niagara Falls, you can explore some lesser-known natural wonders just waiting to be discovered.
From hikes that lead to panoramic views, to deep spiralling caves, Ontario has a diverse landscape to explore.
You can spend your summer days in a turquoise swimming hole at the Elora Quarry. Encased by towering limestone walls, this spot is a little pocket of paradise located less than an hour from Toronto.
The Cheltenham Badlands will transport you to another planet. These rolling red clay hills look like something you might find on Mars.
Flowerpot Island is home to rare plants and uniquely shaped rock formations. You can take a cruise to this hidden oasis and spend the day exploring.
Forget about waterfalls and marvel at these other natural wonders instead!
Flowerpot Island
Price: $7.90 per adult
Address: Flowerpot Island, ON
Why You Need To Go: Hop on a boat and explore this island full of unique rock formations, rare plants, and a historic lighthouse.
Point Pelee
Price: $ 7.90 per adult
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON
Why You Need To Go: This stunning provincial park has a boardwalk trail leading through a marsh, as well as thousands of migrating butterflies in the summertime.
Agate Island
Price: Free
Address: Agate Island, ON
Why You Need To Go: Take a boat trip to this mystical beach filled with rare agate gemstones.
Elora Quarry
Price: $9.29 per adult
Address: 319 Wellington County Rd. 18, Elora, ON
Why You Need To Go: Bask among blue waters and dreamy views at this 2-acre limestone quarry surrounded by white cliffs.
Cup And Saucer Trail
Price: Free
Address: 6301 Bidwell Rd., Sheguiandah, ON
Why You Need To Go: Wander along 12 kilometres of hiking trails at this towering lookout point.
Bruce Caves
Price: Parking fee
Address: Grey Road 1, Wiarton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Explore giant, ancient caverns at this rustic spot.
Rock Dunder
Price: $5 per person
When: Until November 15, 2021
Address: Stanley Lash Lane, Lyndhurst, ON
Why You Need To Go: Climb this forest trail to a stunning lookout point with panoramic views.
Bathtub Island
Price: Various fees
Address: 96 Broadway Ave., Wawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can float around in a natural bathtub in Lake Superior Provincial Park. This tiny island is filled with water, just like a tub.
Cheltenham Badlands
Price: Parking fee
Address: 1739 Olde Base Line Rd., Caledon, ON
Why You Need To Go: This area looks like something from Mars. The red clay hills will transport you to another planet with every step.
Marmora Mine
Price: Free
Address: Marmora Mine Road, Marmora, ON
Why You Need To Go: This abandoned mine is filled with bright blue water encased in towering rock walls.
Ojibway Prairie Complex
Price: Free
Address: 5200 Matchette Rd., Windsor, ON
Why You Need To Go: Made up of parks and natural areas, this complex boasts wildflower fields and even a rainbow pool.
Bonnechere Caves
Price: $19 per adult
When: To be announced
Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd., Eganville, ON
Why You Need To Go: Take things down a level by exploring these mystical limestone caves filled with fossils and stalactites.
Bruce Peninsula Ice Towers
Price: $7.90 per adult
Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Rd., Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: Each winter, the shores of the Bruce Peninsula transform into incredible ice fortresses worthy of Elsa.
Scarborough Bluffs
Price: Free
Address: Scarborough Bluffs Park, ON
Why You Need To Go: Take a trip to these looming white cliffs with spectacular views of Lake Ontario.
Warsaw Caves
Price: $7+ per adult; $17 per car
When: Until October 11, 2021
Address: 289 Caves Rd., Warsaw, ON
Why You Need To Go: This forest is home to ancient spiral caves that lead deep into the ground.
Pukaskwa National Park
Price: $5.90+ per adult
When: May 15 through October 15
Address: ON-627, Heron Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: Home to boreal forests, driftwood beaches, and a suspension bridge over rushing water, this breathtaking park is a must-visit.
Greig's Caves
Price: $10 per adult
When: From June 14
Address: 407 Scenic Caves Rd., Lion's Head, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can wander through ancient limestone caves and even get gorgeous views of Georgian Bay.
Thousand Islands
Address: Thousand Islands, ON
Why You Need To Go: Comprised of over 1,800 islands, this area has tons of places to explore, including a whimsical castle.
Quetico Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: ON-11, Atikokan, ON
Why You Need To Go: Home to sparkling lakes and soaring rock cliffs, this is a spot that will make you happy to live in Ontario.
Dorion Tower
Price: Free
Address: Dorion, ON
Why You Need To Go: This spectacular pinnacle looks like something out of The Lord Of The Rings, but you can find it right here in Ontario.
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
Price: Free
Address: Southwood Road, Gravenhurst, ON
Why You Need To Go: Relax under the stars at this twinkling dark sky preserve.
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
