Fall Hike: Duncan Caves

Trip Highlights:

Join us on one of the top rated fall hikes in Ontario. This will be a rugged cliffside hike through the Duncan Escarpment Provincial Nature Reserve to explore the famous Duncan Caves!

We will follow the main Bruce Trail and side loop system along the Niagara Escarpment, weaving through lush moss-covered forests, exposed white limestone cliffs, and dramatic crevice caves formed by ancient block-slumping. The highlight of the route is navigating through the cool, towering rock fissures and natural caves along the escarpment face.

This is a hard hike in certain sections due to uneven/rocky terrain and elevation changes in certain places.

Trip will be at a relaxed pace with breaks to explore the cave entrances, take photos, and ensure everyone navigates the technical rocky terrain safely.

Note: Carpooling is encouraged. The Starting Parking Lot is quite small and this being a popular rock climbing destination aswell, gets filled up quickly. Hence adding an alternate parking lot however that will add approx 2km extra to the hike distance.

Trip Details:

• Start Point: Metcalfe Parking, 415477 10 Line #415400, The Blue Mountains, ON N0H 2E0

• Alternate Start Point: Duncan Caves Provincial Park Parking Lot, 9th Line, The Blue Mountains, ON N0H 2G0

• Trail Type: Loop

• Distance: ~ 10.0 km

• Duration: ~ 4.5 – 5 hours

What to Bring:

• positive and growth mindset

• snacks, and plenty of water

• sturdy hiking boots with ankle support (essential for rocky crevices, exposed roots, and uneven terrain)

• headlamp or flashlight (optional for the cave section in case its dark)