From turquoise swimming holes and underground caves to tumbling ribbon waterfalls, you can enjoy the season to the fullest at these spots.
Here are 10 natural wonders less than 2 hours from Toronto to check out this summer.
Tew Falls
Price: $16 per driver and vehicle
Address: 581 Harvest Rd., Dundas, ON
Why you need to go: Ready to chase a waterfall this summer? Tew Falls, located in Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, is a magical spot to visit.
The natural wonder is an hour away from Toronto and features stunning trails, lookouts and more.
The 41-metre ribbon waterfall tumbles into a valley and can be viewed from several platforms.
You can also enjoy the scenery from Dundas Peak, which boasts panoramic views of a forested gorge, small towns and more.
Tourism Hamilton website
Wasaga Beach
Price: Free
Address: Wasaga Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: This isn't just any beach. Wasaga Beach is "the World’s Longest Freshwater Beach" according to the Wasaga Beach Tourism website.
This natural wonder boasts 14 kilometres of white sandy shores and is an hour and 40 minutes away from Toronto.
The beach also features "one of Ontario’s most unique coastal dune ecosystems" and stunning views of Georgian Bay. You'll feel like you've taken a trip to the tropics as you lounge on the endless stretch of sandy coastline.
Wasaga Beach Tourism website
Cheltenham Badlands
Price: $10 + per vehicle
When: Mid-May to November 20, 2024, dawn to dusk
Address: 1739 Olde Base Line Rd., Caledon, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can take a little trip to outer space at this unique natural wonder near Toronto.
The Cheltenham Badlands are known for their rolling red hills that look like something you'd see on Mars. The area features a boardwalk trail that takes you through the unique landscape so you can get an up-close look.
According to Ontario Heritage Trust, "the site is one of the most recognizable and visited natural heritage landmarks in Southern Ontario."
Ontario Heritage Trust website
Rockwood Conservation Area
Price: $8.50 per adult
Address: 161 Fall St. S., Rockwood, ON
Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem near Toronto is full of natural wonders and it's a gorgeous spot for a summer road trip.
Rockwood Conservation area, located an hour from the city, is home to impressive limestone cliffs, caves and glacial potholes, including "one of the world's largest."
You'll also find old ruins and a sandy beach as you explore the area. It's a great spot to go hiking or canoeing.
Rockwood Conservation Area website
Belfountain Conservation Area
Price: $7.75 per adult
Address: 819 Forks of the Credit Rd., Caledon, ON
Why you need to go: You'll find an enchanting waterfall and more at this conservation area near Toronto. Located about an hour away from the city, Belfountain Conservation Area is home to a swing bridge that takes you right over a cascade.
It's a dreamy spot for a hike, and other natural wonders you can discover include Yellowstone Cave and limestone cliffs.
It's a good idea to make a reservation online in advance so you can secure your spot.
Credit Valley Conservation website
Crawford Lake Conservation Area
Price: $10.50 per adult
Address: 3115 Conservation Rd., Milton, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can discover a rare lake at this conservation area, which is an hour away from Toronto.
It's home to a "meromictic lake," characterized by its layers of water that remain separate and don't intermix. This gives the pool a stunning turquoise colour.
You can follow a boardwalk trail around the lake to enjoy the views.
The conservation area also has a 15th-century Longhouse Village you can check out. You can explore the village and learn about life 600 years ago.
Crawford Lake Conservation Area website
Scarborough Bluffs
Price: Free
Address: Scarborough, ON
Why You Need To Go: These massive white cliffs are spectacular to see. Located just 30 minutes from Toronto, the Bluffs span 15 kilometres of shoreline and 11 parks.
According to Destination Toronto, the Bluffs are "a testament to the end of the Great Ice Age, making them a remarkable geological feature."
For some extra summer magic, you can head to the white sand beach at Bluffer's Park.
You'll also want to check out Cathedral Bluffs Park, which offers views of "eroded sandstone bluffs and Lake Ontario, and it happens to be situated atop one of the highest points within the Bluffs."
City of Toronto website
The Elora Quarry
Price: $11 per adult
When: Reopening date to be announced
Address: 319 Wellington County Rd., Elora, ON
Why You Need To Go: This dreamy swimming hole is worth a summer road trip. Located about an hour and a half away from the city, the Elora Quarry Conservation Area is home to a two-acre limestone quarry surrounded by towering white cliffs up to 40 feet high.
During the summer, you can take a dip in the turquoise waters, lounge on the sandy beach, enjoy a picnic and more.
You must book tickets in advance, so keep an eye on the website for opening dates.
Elora Quarry website
Eramosa Karst Conservation Area
Price: Free
Address: Upper Mt Albion Rd., Stoney Creek, ON
Why You Need To Go: An hour outside of Toronto, you can discover the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area. This destination boasts several natural wonders such as underground caves and streams as well as meadows and forests.
You can explore the 4 kilometres of trails, lush meadows and geological formations including a 335 metre-long cave.
Eramosa Karst Conservation Area website
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 795122 3rd Line E., Orangeville, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for a unique spot to get lost in nature, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is the place to visit.
Located an hour and 20 minutes from the city, the park offers stunning trails, towering cliffs and more.
The Spillway Trail takes you straight through a canyon and it's a truly magical experience. You'll be surrounded by rock walls as you wander through the crevice.
You can also explore the Cliff-Top Side Trail which takes you past 30-metre cliffs.
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park website
Enjoy these natural wonders around Toronto this summer, and don't forget to snap some dreamy photos.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
