The sprawling 91-acre site of the Cheltenham Badlands originated around 450 million years ago at the bed of an ancient sea. Located just northwest of Toronto, these distinct red and grey clay hills are considered an Ontario geological treasure.
The structure of the Badlands is due to poor farming practices that took place between the mid-19th and early 20th century by European settlers who cleared the area for homesteads. This led to soil erosion and sediment exposure, resulting in the striking yet delicate Queenston shale formations and the iconic landscape we recognize today.
Still, the sea of red clay-like hills was formed as part of a geological process that took place centuries ago. The best part is — you can take a trip to the Badlands and view these gorgeous geological features for yourself. The site is located in Caledon, Ont., about a 45-minute drive from downtown Toronto, taking Highway 401 westbound. It’s open from dawn to dusk until the end of November, so you can enjoy a ton of activities before the snow hits, including hiking, dog walking, and bird watching.
Walking on the Badlands itself isn’t allowed, so trails are clearly marked to help you navigate your way through the park. Head to the 60-metre-long boardwalk — this viewing platform extends across a portion of the Badlands to ensure its protection, allowing you to take beautiful Insta snaps of the sprawling red and grey hills.
The Badlands trail (0.32 km) connects the Bruce Trail to the viewing platform. This path will take you through a young forest habitat filled with native trees and shrubs. The Bruce Trail (1.33 km) is Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath — it’ll allow you to safely wander through the Badlands, taking you through hawthorn, ash, and apple trees, and over a tributary of the Credit River. You can even bring your dog with you (as long as your pup is on a leash at all times).
For bird lovers, as the Badlands are located in the Carolinian zone, visitors have reported seeing black-capped chickadees, great blue herons, Eastern Towhees, and even northern cardinals.
The Badlands are operated by the Ontario Heritage Trust, so access to the site can only occur through the online reservation system, ParkPass. Most bookings are for 90 minutes, but they have limited spots for three-hour bookings! Entrance fees are charged per vehicle, $10–$35 +HST, depending on the day and the length of the visit.
The Cheltenham Badlands are located at 1739 Olde Base Line Road, between Creditview and Chinguacousy Roads, in Caledon, Ont. Click here for more information.
When you’re done visiting the Badlands, check out these other areas to take family-friendly hikes near Toronto.
