Cheltenham Badlands
The Cheltenham Badlands, an Ontario geological gem, originated around 450 million years ago at the bed of an ancient sea. Between 1850 and 1950, European settlers cleared the area for homesteads, leading to soil erosion and the distinct Queenston shale formations.
The removal of trees and early farming caused rapid erosion of the shale, creating the iconic ridge and gully landscape now recognized as the Cheltenham Badlands.
This 36-hectare site has been preserved as a natural heritage landmark, drawing visitors from around the world to view its striking geological features.
How to get to Cheltenham Badlands
Location: 1739 Olde Base Line Road, Caledon
By car: The Cheltenham Badlands is located in Caledon, southeast of the Olde Base Line Road, between Chinguacousy Road and Creditview Road. The best way to get there is by car. A paid parking lot is located close to the entrance of the trail. Reservations are required.
Know before you go
While physical access onto the Cheltenham Badlands is no longer possible, as foot traffic accounts for up to 10% of its annual sediment loss and shale erosion, you can still view them from boardwalks and trails surrounding the area.
The Cheltenham Badlands is open seasonally from May to October. Check the website for information and hours before you visit.
Things to do at Cheltenham Badlands
Discover more activities and experiences.
Explore a natural landmark
Follow interpretive signs to guide you along the Badlands’ unique formations. The landscape features iron-rich Queenston Shale, creating its distinctive reddish-brown terrain.
Stroll the boardwalk
The 600-metre boardwalk provides the best views of the Cheltenham Badlands. It is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Visitors are advised to remain on the platform at all times.
Spend time in nature
The Cheltenham Badlands Trail is a short 300-metre trail that connects the Bruce Trail to the viewing platform. It takes you through a slow-growing forest adjacent to the Badlands.
Hike an iconic trail network
Visitors can enjoy a full, uninterrupted view of the Cheltenham Badlands while walking along the 1,500-metre portion of the Bruce Trail. This is also a great spot to take photographs.
Connect with animals
Take your dog on a walk through the Badlands. Alternatively, bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for over 260 different species of birds that fly around this diverse habitat.
Articles and itineraries
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Interesting facts about Cheltenham Badlands
The Cheltenham Badlands is a provincially significant Area of Natural and Scientific Interest and part of an area designated as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The ancestors of the Mississaugas of the Credit came to the Cheltenham Badlands to hunt, fish and forage. Living in small villages on the river flats, they practiced horticulture and stewarded the Cheltenham Badlands for many generations.
Today, about twenty percent of the land showcases badlands, alongside mature forests and wetlands.
Accessibility Features
Accessible drop-off location
Accessible entrances/exits
Accessible parking
Accessible recreation trails
Accessible washroom
Information available in alternative format
Service animals welcome
Support persons welcome
Universal washroom
Wheelchair accessible
Last updated: September 12, 2024