Exploring the Grotto: Bruce Peninsula National Park
Tucked away along the shores of the Georgian Bay, this spectacular natural cave is the star attraction of the Bruce Peninsula National Park. Millions of years of wind, rain, and waves have carved a deep cavern into the limestone cliffs–a tranquil space to appreciate the unbound beauty of the bay.
A hit with young and old alike, its turquoise-tinged waters, calm interior pools, and rugged rocky coastline make the Grotto a must for anyone on a visit to the peninsula.
Parking at the Grotto
Its unbridled natural beauty has seen the Grotto become a little too big for its boots in recent years. And with limited parking available, you’ll need to plan ahead if you wish to visit during the peak season.
Daytrippers must use the P1 Daytime Parking near Cyprus Lake. Advanced reservations are available between May and October, which are split into four-hour slots to allow more people a chance to visit the cave.
Huge crowds of visitors are turned away during the peak summer season (July to August) and Canadian/American public holidays, so it’s essential to reserve a parking spot during these periods.
Parking costs $11.70 per vehicle plus a $6 reservation fee.
Campers staying at the Cyprus Lake camping grounds can park onsite and hike directly to the Grotto.
Hiking to the Grotto
From the P1 Parking Lot or the Cyprus Lake campsites, you’ll have three options to reach the Grotto: the Horse Lake Trail, the Georgian Trail, and the Marr-Lake Trail.
The easiest and most direct route is the Georgian Trail, a 30-minute gravel path that meanders over a few gentle hills. The Bruce Trail section that straddles the shoreline requires climbing over slippery rocks and roots.
You’ll also need to scramble down a rugged 12-metre cliff to enter the cave–a challenge for small children and the elderly–although it’s possible to enjoy the views from up above.
On the way back, opt to return via the Marr Lake Trail or Horse Lake Trail for a change of scenery. These routes are slightly tougher, though they still have an easy rating.
Nearby Attractions
Several other natural attractions lie nearby and can easily be visited on the same day.
- Overhanging Point: A natural viewpoint made of a slab-like rocky platform (15 mins)
- Boulder Beach: A beautiful place to swim when the Grotto feels too crowded (5 mins)
- Indian Head Cove: A scenic inlet located next to the Grotto
- Halfway Rock Point: A lookout with views of the Georgian Bay and Flowerpot Island (10 mins)
The Grotto FAQs
- There are washroom facilities at the P1 Daytime Carpark, Indian Head Cove, and the Grotto.
- There are no garbage collection facilities on site. Please take all rubbish out with you.
- Alcohol, fires, and barbeques are not permitted.
- The shoreline section of the Bruce Trail is rugged and requires sturdy footwear.
- The water in the Georgian Bay is cold and the conditions can be rough.
