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Everything You Need to Know about The Grotto at the Bruce Peninsula Park in Ontario

I think everyone will agree when I say The Grotto is a magnificent wonder in Ontario—no wonder it’s a popular destination! The intricate cave, the crystal blue water of Georgian Bay, and the breathtaking scenery are worth the challenging hike!

It’s one of those bucket list places in Ontario for locals and tourists—actually, I ticked mine off back when it was a hidden gem (lucky!). So before it gets even more popular, you have to go see it because parking will be tougher!

Once you do decide to come, there are things you need to know first. Keep on reading for travel tips, hiking routes, and things to do in the area!

What is The Grotto?

The Grotto is a natural cave hidden at Bruce Peninsula National Park in Tobermory, Ontario. It’s on the shoreline of Georgian Bay and has clear blue water and intricate rock formations.

Where is The Grotto?

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Image Source: Google Maps

The Grotto is in the northern part of Bruce Peninsula National Park (Bruce Peninsula National Park) in Bruce County, right next to Indian Head Cove. The nearest town is Tobermory in the north.

How to Get to The Grotto

When travelling to The Grotto, you need to go to Bruce Peninsula National Park first, then hike to the shoreline of Georgian Bay.

Car: Drive to Highway 6 and turn to Cyprus Lake Road, where you’ll enter the Cyprus Lake Gate House. Continue straight until you reach the parking lot (P1).

Parkbus: A convenient way to get to The Grotto is via a direct bus service from downtown Toronto. This isn’t a good option for day trips, though, since the travel takes about 4 to 5 hours.

But it is very practical since you don’t have to drive and can purchase a one-way or round-trip ticket that includes an entry pass to The Grotto.

When Is the Best Time to Visit The Grotto

The best time to visit The Grotto is in the fall, sometime in late September to late October. You won’t encounter too many people and it won’t be crowded on the shores of Georgian Bay.

Summer is also a popular time to visit because of warmer temperatures. However, this is also when most people flock to this scenic destination.

What to See and Do at The Grotto

Hike to the Grotto

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Hiking is one unavoidable thing to do at The Grotto—you literally have to do it to get there! It takes 30 minutes for a one-way trip, so a round trip will take more or less an hour, depending on your speed and route.

There are three hiking routes: Georgian Bay Trail, Horse Lake Trail, and Marr Lake Trail. Choose the one you think is best based on your skill level.

They’re well-marked, with signs pointing you to your destination so you won’t accidentally walk to the other trails. The trails do go on a loop, so if you pick one, you can take a different route to go back to the beginning.

Georgian Bay Trail

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The Georgian Bay Trail is honestly the easiest. This 1.3 km paved route will only take 30 minutes since it’s a direct path.

The trail is smooth and wide, so it’s not tough to walk on. You’ll likely see more people here since it’s the fastest way to The Grotto.

You can turn left to Marr Lake Trail if you want a rugged path and see Marr Lake. Then, you can choose to return to the starting point via Georgian Bay Trail again or via Bruce Trail/Horse Lake Trail—but only if you want to try out all the routes.

Horse Lake Trail

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Unlike Georgian Bay Trail, this one doesn’t have the smoothest pathway, but you do start on wooden boardwalks. Horse Lake Trail, the shortest path at 800 m, will take you through the forest and to the rocky shores.

Once you see the shoreline of Georgian Bay, you need to follow the very rugged Bruce Trail to the west and through Georgian Bay Trail to reach The Grotto. 

Remember to GO LEFT to not end up on the wrong side of the trail! You’ll know you’re on the right route when you reach the paved path just a little after going through the forest.

Marr Lake Trail

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Marr Lake Trail is a 1.4 km rugged route and the most challenging out of the three—it’s not too hard for experienced hikers. The path isn’t paved, so expect an uneven trail, rocky parts, and branches here and there.

It’s also narrow, and you’ll be closely surrounded by trees. And while it’s not well-marked like the Georgian Bay Trail, the beaten path is easy to see.

There are rocks once you reach Marr Lake, so be careful with your steps here. You’ll know you’re close once you reach the rocky shores.

Bruce Trail

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This one isn’t where you start, but you do cross a portion when you take Georgian Bay Trail, Horse Lake Trail, and Marr Lake Trail.

Bruce Trail is the longest marked footpath in Canada. The main path stretches for 900 km from Queenston to Tobermory, and the side trails are 450 km.

The Grotto section of Bruce Trail is rocky. You’ll encounter it the most if you pick the Horse Lake Trail.

It gets really challenging if you take a detour to Halfway Rock Point because of the rocky climbs on the edge of the cliff. The good news is you don’t actually have to do this!

Swim in the turquoise water

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…but only if you dare! Once you reach the Grotto, you actually have to climb down on the uneven rocks to get to the crystal blue water.

The Grotto has an underwater tunnel where you can swim or snorkel. The water is illuminated when the sun hits the spot just right—it honestly looks like it’s glowing, which feels magical.

You should know that it is very cold—yes, even in the summer! Another thing to note is there are no lifeguards and the shores are very rocky, so be careful because it can be dangerous.

Visit Indian Head Cove

Just beside The Grotto is Indian Head Cove, an inlet on the shores of Georgian Bay. You’ll come across this gorgeous spot if you take the Georgian Bay Trail or the Horse Lake Trail/Bruce Trail.

The views are absolutely breathtaking! You can admire the scenery here before heading to The Grotto, or you can swim if you don’t mind the chilly water.

This area is very rocky, so be careful with every step. 

Where to Stay near The Grotto

Cyprus Lake Campground

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Location: Bruce Peninsula National Park – 469 Cyprus Lake Rd
Contact: 1-877-737-3783
Pricing: $
Website

If you’re up for camping, this is the place to go. Cyprus Lake Campground near The Grotto, right inside the park.

Plus, the campsite is close to Cyprus Lake, which is perfect for swimming because it’s warmer than Georgian Bay. You can also kayak and canoe there or bike on the trails in the area—basically, you get more time to explore!

Orange Bicycle Guesthouse and Gardens

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Location: 5 Warner Bay Rd
Contact: 519-783-1383
Pricing: $$$
Website

This bed and breakfast in the Bruce Peninsula provides a warm welcome in Tobermory. The rooms are so cosy, it feels like a home away from home—and your stay includes breakfast at the shared table!

Orange Bicycle Guesthouse has the basic amenities, and there’s a common area with a water cooler and fridge for everyone to use—a nice way to meet the other guests! You can also explore the gardens for fresh air in the morning!

This lovely spot is right on the highway and only a 7-minute drive to Cyprus Lake Gate House, which is the entrance to the national park.

Harbourside Motel

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Location: 24 Carlton St
Contact: 519-596-2999
Pricing: $$$
Website

A place to stay that puts you in town is Harbourside Motel, which faces Little Tub Harbour. This is a convenient place because it’s only a 10-minute drive to get to the park and you can explore Tobermory.

This also gives you the chance to add other activities to your trip. It offers island cruises via Blue Heron Cruises, where you’ll see shipwrecks and visit other islands.

There are different rooms for different needs. All are equipped with electrical heating and cable TV, but not all have air conditioning.

Where to Eat near The Grotto

Tacomory

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Location: 7379 Hwy 6
Contact: 519-466-0221 
Operating Hours: Frida – Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm (seasonal opening)
Website

Tacomory had us at tacos! It’s a food truck located right on the highway before you enter the centre of the town, but do note that this closes in the winter.

There are tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, and nachos. These meals are filling and quick to eat, which is perfect before or after a hike at The Grotto.

Coconut Joe’s Harbour Bar and Grill

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Location: 53 Bay St
Contact: 705-539-0180, [email protected] 
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm (seasonal opening)
Website
Menu

Coconut Joe’s is situated in town, right in front of the harbour. If you want a relaxing place to dine, this is the spot!

This island-inspired restaurant totally gives beach vibes with its refreshing cocktails and bonfire burgers. Try the seafood here, which is fitting for its location—the whitefish is delicious!

Tobermory Brewing Company

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Location: 28 Bay St
Contact: 519-596-8181
Operating Hours:

  • Sunday – Thursday: 12 pm – 10 pm
  • Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm

Certain days may close during winter

Website
Menu

Swing by Tobermory Brewing Company for good times after a tiring (but fulfilling) trip at The Grotto. It’s in front of Little Tub Harbour, a perfect spot for afternoon drinks!

Unlike other dining options, this one’s open year-round! Grab a pint and try local beer paired with fresh fish and chips—an awesome combo for your Tobermory visit!

How to Prepare for a Hike to The Grotto

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While The Grotto isn’t a long hike, there are challenging parts once you’re near the shores of Georgian Bay (it gets very dangerous here). There aren’t any shops around too, so you need to prepare to ensure a smooth trip.

Here are packing essentials and things you should know that helped us during our visit:

  • Book in advance because you cannot enter the park without a parking ticket.
  • Plan the route you want to take and ensure you can go back to your car on schedule because you only have a window of 4 hours of parking.
  • Wear proper shoes because no matter which route you take, you’ll have to go through rocky sections near/at the end.
  • Bring water and snacks. Hiking and dehydration don’t mix, especially in the summer.
  • Wear appropriate clothing based on the day and season you plan to go. Bring sunglasses and a hat because you’ll go through unshaded parts of the trail.
  • Apply sunscreen to protect your skin, especially in the hot summer months.
  • Check the weather. If it’s raining or if it rained the night before, it’s best to reschedule your visit because the rocks will be slippery and the unpaved paths will be muddy.
  • Practice Leave No Trace. Bring a small bag for your trash and do not take anything from the place, even if it’s a small rock.
  • Know your limitations. While The Grotto is a beautiful place, it can be scary for some people due to the rock formations on the shoreline. If you feel you cannot hike portions of the trail, there’s no shame in turning back.
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