Toronto 
The Cheltenham Badlands, a geological wonder located an hour from downtown Toronto in Caledon, reopens for the 2026 season on May 8.
To Do Canada
This natural wonder was formed over 450 million years ago at the base of an ancient sea. Its unique red colour is the result of iron oxidation over millions of years. But this isn’t just a pretty picture—take a stroll on the accessible boardwalk and explore the 0.32 km Cheltenham Badlands Trail.
Feeling more adventurous? Take on the 1.33 km hike on the Bruce Trail through the forest.
Education and interpretive signs are available to enhance your understanding of this geological gem. And don’t forget to snap some photos for your Instagram followers – the views are breathtaking.
But before you head out, a word of caution—physical access to the badlands is prohibited to preserve its unique appearance. The viewing platform and 60-meter boardwalk provide the perfect vantage point while ensuring the site’s protection.
Ready to blast off to this lunar-like landscape?
This fragile landscape is accessible to the public from May 8 to November 16, strictly from dawn to dusk, and only through prior reservations.
Visitors can explore the area during scheduled visits, with most bookings allocated for 90-minute intervals and a limited number of extended three-hour slots.
Entrance fees are per vehicle and are structured by duration and day of the week, ranging from $10 + HST on weekdays to $20 + HST on weekends.
The site has washrooms, and parking is reservation-only (admission fee), including an accessible parking space reserved for vehicles with a valid permit, ensuring compliance and accessibility.
The natural area is now managed by the Ontario Heritage Trust.
Trip Planning – Cheltenham Badlands
What: The Badlands, a provincially significant natural area, features delicate Queenston shale shaped by erosion from human and environmental activity. To protect this unique landscape, visitors are urged to stay on designated trails, including a 60-meter boardwalk with an accessible viewing platform, and paths like the 0.32 km Badlands trail and 1.33 km Bruce Trail, which meander through diverse native flora and a tributary of the Credit River.
Walking directly on the Badlands is strictly prohibited.
When: May 8 to November 16, 2026, dawn to dusk
Where: 1739 Olde Base Line Road, Caledon
How Much:
By reservation only. Entrance fees are charged per vehicle.
Monday to Friday: $10 + HST for 90-minute visit
Weekends and holidays: $20 + HST for 90-minute visit
Monday to Friday: $18 + HST for three-hour visit
Weekends and holidays: $35 + HST for three-hour visit
