Amelie CameronThinking of ways to quench your thirst for the ultimate summer getaway? You’ve come to the right place!
Grab your SPF 50 sunscreens and pack your getaway bags because we don’t take adventures lightly here; we’re your adventure pros, here to provide you with everything fun under the sun!
And by fun under the sun, we mean it quite literally as we present the most exciting swimming holes near Toronto. This is the kind of list you’ll go back to again and again, especially during times when you’re craving the wettest outdoor adventure!
Now, let the aquatic adventure commence.
1. Elora Quarry
– Media credit: curiocitytoronto
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sFFN4GYM3AUNmeyUA
Address: 319 Wellington Rd 18, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Contact details: +1 519-846-5234
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Elora Quarry is a renowned attraction, inviting a diverse crowd from different parts of the world during the summer months.
Part of the charm of this famous water hole is the picturesque cliff that embraces it, promising swimmers an enchanting panorama of luscious groves.
Aside from swimming, visitors also go here because it’s the perfect backdrop for picnic dates while indulging in nature views.
There’s also a one-kilometer loop of a gorgeous hiking trail in the vicinity, so feel free to take a look around, explorers! In fact, we urge you to do so!
2. Trout Lake
– Media credit: donisgoneee
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uv5296cf4zzYzNQd6
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours and 40 minutes
Trout Lake is a striking jewel sprawling 98,500 acres, bursting with bewitching visual feasts.
An almost 4-hour drive from the city, it promises a captivating outdoor experience for Torontonians willing to go the extra mile.
Is it worth it, you ask? Most definitely, and here’s why:
It’s a popular spot to go fishing, hence the quite literally fishy name. Aside from trout, you can also expect to reel in muskies, panfish, and other interesting varieties.
Furthermore, this exciting attraction boasts three different lakes – its rich offerings add to its allure.
Additionally, it’s considerably less popular than the other swimming holes on this list, so if you want to avoid crowds, you know where to go!
3. Grotto at Bruce Peninsula
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d2ymKtFeot7NqnQ16
Address: Bruce Trail, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
Contact details: +1 519-596-2233
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours and 44 minutes
Grotto is another one of the most sought-after locations to grace this list. One of its many remarkable features is the natural rock formation that encompasses the magical blue waters.
Unsurprisingly, the most popular activity at the Grotto is traversing its mighty trails – an activity we also found ourselves doing on a gorgeous summer day. It was generally easy to explore, but expect a bumpy path before the end of the trail.
Other adventures you can partake in during your visit are cliff jumping, camping, and swimming. Speaking of swimming, make sure to practice precautions because there’s no lifeguard around.
Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful nature views!
5. St. Mary’s Swimming Quarry
– Media credit: 108trace
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K4j65HSTyKGwmML28
Address: 425 Water St S, St. Marys, ON N4X 1B6, Canada
Contact details: +1 519-284-3090
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 7:30 PM
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Considered the country’s biggest freshwater swimming pool, St. Mary’s Swimming Quarry stands out as a refreshing retreat for families with kids in tow, especially with the addition of huge inflatables.
However, do note that the water is deep. That said, the area is well supervised by an attentive lifeguard, so you’re in good hands.
Aside from swimming, visitors can also indulge in a variety of outdoor activities including cliff jumping, picnicking, jumping on the trampoline, and more.
Within the vicinity, there’s also a waterpark that kids really love! Although you have to pay a fee to get in as opposed to the free-of-charge quarry, it’s still a pretty good deal.
6. Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VhJ11czyGtBfaNRK8
Address: 1219 Burloak Dr, Oakville, ON L6M 4J7, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-827-6911
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – closed
Distance from Toronto: 30 minutes
Don’t want to travel too far for a swimming hole adventure? You’re in luck – there’s also Bronte Creek Provincial Park that’s just 30 minutes away!
It’s a vibrant spot that attracts plenty of families nearby because it’s also home to one of the largest outdoor swimming areas in the country. It only goes as deep as 6 ft, so it isn’t as intimidating as the other locations on this list.
To make your visit even more worth it, why not try the other outdoor activities in the area? We recommend hiking, camping, fishing, disc golfing, and wildlife watching!
7. Kelso Conservation Area
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xRR6gX25PYuX6gxE6
Address: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9E 0C6, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-878-5011
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Distance from Toronto: 45 minutes
Located in one of Toronto’s endearing neighbors, Kelso Conservation Area provides a broad range of activities any type of outdoor adventure seekers will be happy to hear.
This includes camping, sailing, rock climbing, hiking, yoga, and of course, swimming.
The crystal clear lakes call for a picturesque exploration of this man-made reservoir. The sandy waterfront where people often relax or sunbathe, undeniably adds its allure.
If what you’re looking for is a weekend getaway not too far away from Toronto, you might’ve just found your match!
