Cave Springs

This property features spectacular vistas overlooking Lake Ontario and the old Lake Iroquois shore, and is an exquisite representation of the Niagara Escarpment’s talus slopes and cliffs. The escarpment rim and bedrock plain forests are dominated by Sugar Maples. The rich and unique diversity of plants and habitat on these rare escarpment features provide a linear migration corridor for animals and plants.

The cultural folklore and mystique of Cave Springs is as rich as its natural diversity. The late Margaret Reed, from whom the property came to NPCA, fondly spoke of the spring’s reputation as a ‘fountain of youth’. There is a famous ice cave, once used for refrigeration, which was regrettably blocked by a failed expansion attempt. There is an underground lake, a wartime hideout, mysterious rock carvings, and a nearby native North American encampment site.

Recently completed in fall 2022, Cave Springs Conservation Area now features dedicated access off of Cave Spring Road, with vehicle and bicycle parking. The Bruce Trail and the Margaret Reid Side Trail can be accessed from this location. Cave Springs also features a 200m accessible trail and interpretive courtyard.