Visiting Bonnechere Caves: Ticket Info & Trip Tips

Bonnechere Caves is a hidden gem in Ottawa Valley, located in Eganville, Ontario. Admission to the caves offers an opportunity to witness geological history come to life as you venture through winding subterranean passages and awe-inspiring rock formations. There’s also plenty of things to do near the Bonnechere Caves, like hiking the riverside trails, exploring the Fourth Chute Waterfall, and even camping at the Bonnechere Provincial Park.

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Let me show you what you can expect to see at this must-see destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, geologists, and cave explorers alike. 

Where Are the Bonnechere Caves Located?

In the Bonnechere Township, near the town of Douglas, in the village of Eganville, ON, is one of Ontario’s most unique attractions – the remarkable Bonnechere Caves. A scenic, 2-hour drive outside of Ottawa or approximately 4 hours from the GTA will have you exploring the handiwork of mother nature in no time.

The Bonnechere Caves address is 1247 Fourth Chute Road, Eganville, Ontario. Below is the Bonnechere Caves map of where you can find these scenic Ontario caves. 

Planning Your Visit

What Are the Bonnechere Caves Hours?

The underground caves are open daily from 10 am to 4 pm from the May long weekend (Victoria Day) to September’s Labour Day.

After Labour Day, the caves are open on the weekends until the end of the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend from 10 am to 4 pm.

Note: Double check with the tour’s operator’s website, there have been years where the opening was delayed due to heavy rainfalls and quick snowmelt.

How Long Are the Cave Tours at the Bonnechere Caves

The cave team at the Bonnechere Caves offers guided daily tours every 20-30 minutes on a first-come first-served basis. It takes about an hour to tour the Bonnechere Caves. These regular tours include a short, hands-on information session on geology and rock formations, a brief stop overlooking a scenic lookout of the Bonnechere River, followed by a guided tour of the underground cave system.

Are the Bonnechere Caves Pet-Friendly?

Unfortunately, your pets are not allowed to go cave exploring. You can, however, leash your pet to the fence line. Don’t worry – the staff is super sweet and kind enough to check in on our dog as well as the others.

Bonnechere Caves History

Your journey by an expert tour guide starts 100 ft below the surface into the Bonnechere limestone caves, estimated to be 400-500 million years old.

The Bonnechere cave system was carved into the limestone bedrock over millions of years by the Bonnechere River, which still flows through the underground tunnels. It was not until 1955 when Tom Woodward discovered the caves and had them drained to open them as a tourist attraction, which has been wowing visitors ever since.

Over the years, many legends and myths have sprung up around the Bonnechere Caves. Some believe that the notorious outlaw Jesse James used the caves as a hideout, while others claim that the ghost of a young girl who drowned in the nearby river haunts the caves. Whatever the truth, there is no denying that the Ordovician limestone caves are steep in history and mystery.

What to Expect When Visiting the Caves

Our tour guide led a very entertaining tour, which started with a quick history lesson about the area and a preview of well-preserved prehistoric fossils and various rocks. We then entered the cave via a staircase. Once inside, the cave temperature was cool – wear a long sleeve shirt or bring a light jacket. For the most part, you’ll walk the elevated boardwalks, but there are sections of uneven terrain that is wet and slippery.

If you are afraid of being in a dark cave, you can rest easy knowing the underground passages are ambient with lights. However, during the last leg of the tour, your guide will turn off the lights, immersing you in the whole experience of what Mike Brophy felt when he discovered the caves so long ago. It is not for the faint of heart if you are afraid, but it is quite the unique experience.

As you explore the caves with your knowledgeable guide, your tour guide will point to notable features, geological gems, and share fascinating facts and stories about their geological and cultural significance.

Our guide was super friendly, funny, and informative. He took the time to answer questions and allowed us to experience the caves without feeling rushed. After the tour, you will be encouraged to hike the property and take in the views of the Bonnechere River. Oh, and don’t worry if you forgot to bring water or snacks – there is a small onsite souvenir shop / Bonnechere Museum with the basics.

Check out AllTrails for route information on Bonnechere’s hiking trails.

Are There Bats Inside the Caves?

This seems to be the infamous question!! Our tour was in August, and no we did not see any bats. However, our tour guide did say that bats do not come into the cave during the summer months. If you want to see bats, you are better off visiting the caves in late September.

Notable Features Inside the Bonnechere Caves to Look Out For

As you wind through the natural wonder, your guide will point out ancient Bonnechere Caves fossils and awe-inspiring formations that have slowly sculpted over thousands of years. One of the most notable features is a stunning curtain of dripping stalactites, also known as rock icicles, that line the cave walls. These curtains are from mineral deposits that form at a rate of one cubic inch per 150 years and hang in beautiful, delicate drapes. They are not to be touched, as touching them stuns their growth. And you would hate to be responsible for stopping the growth of something that took years!

The limestone walls are cold and moist, and as you run your hand over them, you will occasionally come across embedded fossils of ancient sea creatures and corals. There is nothing like experiencing the feel of a fossilized cephalopods, octopus, brachiopods, gastropods, or crinoid rings. The intricate patterns on the walls and the small crevices and holes throughout the cave for hibernating bats and other several species.

Throughout the cave tour, you’ll come across narrow passageways that are a bit claustrophobic that make you feel like an adventurer on a quest. Once outside the cave, look out for the “bear pit,” a deep chamber thought to be a trap for hunting bears.

Tips for a Successful Caving Experience

As with any adventure, the more prepared you are, the more memorable the journey! So, here are a few tips to make your experience the best it can be.

What to Wear to the Bonnechere Caves

Despite outside temperatures, even on the hottest summer days, the cave’s temperature is cool and damp. As mentioned earlier, for the most part, you will be walking on a boardwalk with areas of exposed cave floors. These sections are usually wet and slippery.

That being said, opt for sturdy footwear with good gripping soles like the Merrell Moab or running shoes. Make sure you bring a sweater or light jacket. And lastly, do not forget to bring a water bottle.

The caves are accessible to people of all ages but are not stroller-friendly. It would be advisable to bring a baby carrier.

Events at the Bonnechere Caves

If you are feeling adventurous, Bonnechere holds numerous events throughout the season, including underground concerts and underground dining events. I’ve heard that the Bonnechere Caves dinner is a MUST! This year’s events will feature a fossil hunt on Canada’s Day, the Cavestock Concert Series and Tour de Bonnechere in August.

Things To Do Near Bonnechere Caves

Eganville’s Fourth Chute Waterfall

Are you a nature lover? After exploring, take a stroll across the street. It is here that you will find the Fourth Chute of the Bonnechere River. While here, find a spot to relax and take in the sounds of the falls and nature itself. Don’t be surprised if you find a few artists – there are always a few there painting the Fourth Chute falls. There are also plenty of scenic trails by the riverside to enjoy.

A Little About the Bonnechere River

The beautiful Bonnechere River, which flows from Algonquin Park to the Ottawa River, has five chutes. One of which is the Fourth Chute. The Fourth Chute is a waterfall that flows over a series of rocks and creates a stunning cascade of water that drops over 10 meters. The Bonnechere River is known for its rich logging history. Some of its remnants are still visible today.

While Fourth Chute is a marvel, it is also an enjoyable spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can spend hours exploring the natural beauty of the area. There are opportunities for a nature hike, fishing and swimming. The large, flat rocks beside the falls offer a unique picnic area, allowing you to take in the peaceful sounds of the waterfall.

Camping Near the Bonnechere Cave

Just 45 minutes northwest of the caves is the clean, quiet campground of the Bonnechere Provincial Park. This is one of our favourites campgrounds! The water is clean, it offers plenty to do – like kayaking or canoeing down the Bonnechere River. There’s even a newly redone hiking/biking trail, and as a bonus you’re super close to Algonquin Park. Not the East Gate, that’s about an hours drive.

Heading south from the caves, you’ll reach the famous Bon Echo Provincial Park in about an hour. This is another campground that is worth the visit. It offers everything from RV to backcountry camping. Bon Echo is known for its 100 meter high Mazinaw Rock, up to 17 km hiking trails and canoeing.

Hotels Near Bonnechere Caves

Seeing as the Bonnechere Caves are in the remote part of the scenic Ottawa Valley, there aren’t too many nearby options. Personally, I have not stayed at these places, we opted to camp at Bonnechere Provincial Park. Although, camping may not be for everyone, here are a few top rated hotels and inns within a 30 km radius.

1. The Egan Inn – 8.1 km from the Bonnechere Caves with a 4.6 star rating
2. Sandy Beach Cottages – 17.3 km from the Bonnechere Caves with a 5 star rating 
3. Lochiel Street Bed & Breakfast – 25.6 km from the Bonnechere Caves with a 5 star rating

Bonnechere Caves, Eganville F.A.Q.’s

A Final Thought on the Bonnechere Caves in Eganville, Ontario Canada

Eganvilles Bonnechere Cave in the Ottawa Valley is an exceptional and unforgettable caving experience you shouldn’t miss. The history of the cave showcases awe-inspiring rock formations and captivating fossils, along with the Fourth Chute waterfalls, providing a glimpse into our planet’s geological history that is both surreal and fascinating. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your most comfortable shoes and jacket, pack a picnic basket and enjoy the beauty of the caves and its surroundings.

Thank you for reading my Bonnechere Caves Review. Have you visited the Bonnechere Caves in Ontario? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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