Have you ever felt the allure of the underground world beckoning you to explore its secrets? Ontarios Bonnechere Caves offers an opportunity to witness geological history come to life as you venture through winding passages and awe-inspiring rock formations. This hidden gem in the Ottawa Valley is a must-see destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and geologists alike.
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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 formal address for the Bonnechere Caves is 1247 Fourth Chute Road, Eganville, Ontario. Below is a map of where you can find the Ontario caves.
What Are the Bonnechere Caves Hours and Admission Costs?
The caves are open daily from 10 am to 4 pm from the May (Victoria Day) long weekend 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, as last year (2023) the opening was delayed due to heavy rainfalls and quick snowmelt.
How Long Are the Tours at the Bonnechere Caves
The cave team at the Bonnechere Caves offers guided tours every 20-30 minutes. It takes about an hour to tour the Bonnechere Caves. This tour includes a short, hands-on information session on geology and rock formations and a brief stop for a scenic lookout of the Bonnechere River, followed by a guided tour of the caves.
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.
The History of the Bonnechere Caves
Your journey starts 100 ft below the surface into the Bonnechere 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 Bonnechere Caves have a steep history and mystery.
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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, expect the cave to be cool, and the floor to be wet and slippery.
If you are afraid of being in a dark cave, you can rest easy knowing the path is 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 experience.
As you explore the caves with your knowledgeable guide, your tour guide will point to notable features 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 gift shop with the basics.
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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 Bonnechere Caves, your guide will point out ancient fossils and awe-inspiring formations that have slowly sculpted over thousands of years. One of the most notable features is a stunning curtain of stalactites, also known as rock icicles, that line the walls of the caves. 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 wet, 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 octopus, cephalopod, brachiopod, gastropod or crinoid rings. The intricate patterns on the walls and the small crevices and holes throughout the cave are also habitats for several species, including bats.
Throughout the cave tour, you’ll come across narrow passageways 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.
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What to Wear to the Bonnechere Caves
Despite outside temperatures, even on the hottest summer days, the cave’s temperature is cool and damp. For the most part, you will be walking on a boardwalk, but some sections are exposed to cave floors. These sections are usually wet and slippery.
That being said, opt for sturdy footwear with good gripping soles 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, which 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.
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Eganville’s Fourth Chute Waterfall
After exploring the Bonnechere Caves, 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 falls.
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 hiking, 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.
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A Final Thought on the Bonnechere Caves in Eganville, Ontario
Eganvilles Bonnechere Caves 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 Bonnechere Caves and its surroundings.
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The Bonnechere caves sounds like an awesome place to visit with our families. Thanks for the price details and valuable tips!
It’s quite the place, and you’re right, young or old, it’s a cave for everybody. Thanks for the comment!!