Summer is just weeks away, and if you’re searching for something unique to do, how does floating around in an abandoned quarry sound?
While it might sound suspicious, the Elora Quarry is actually a super popular spot to swim for locals and visitors alike, after being designated as a conservation area in the 1970s.
Located just an hour away from Toronto, the not-so-secret swimming hole spans two acres and is surrounded by breathtaking limestone cliffs, some of which reach 40 feet tall.
There’s also a small sandy beach area to sunbathe and relax on, as well as a picnic area you can barbecue at and a 1 km-long hiking trail which takes you around the perimeter of the quarry.
Due to its popularity in recent years, visitors now have to reserve admission tickets and parking permits to access the Elora Quarry, which helps reduce the number of people who tend to flood there on hot summer days.
Tickets and parking permits must be reserved in advance, which you can book on the Grand River Conservation Authority’s website here.
Your admission is good for a 4-hour session, with two time slots to choose from each day: either from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.
The Elora Quarry is set to open for the summer in early June, and will remain open until Labour Day.
Be sure to book your passes well in advance, as the swimming spot can fill up quickly especially on weekends!