You can explore an epic ice cave in Ontario this winter
Few natural wonders match ice caves when it comes to sheer winter beauty. Even if you've somehow managed to dodge seeing the movie Frozen, you probably have a sense for how alluring a remote palace of ice can be.
While there are a few small-scale ice caves within day trip distance of Toronto, the true beauties are located further north. The Lake Superior shoreline is often cited for its majestic ice formations, but you don't actually have to drive quite so far.
Manitoulin Island has one of the most epic ice caves around thanks to its Bridal Veil Falls, which is a popular summer destination. And the drive there can be just as fun.
At the picturesque falls, you can actually swim under the rushing water in July and August, but come winter, your exploration options are even more incredible.
Thanks to the shelf that creates the waterfall, hikers who make their way here during the coldest months can sometimes walk behind the frozen waterfall. It's not always safe to do so based on ice conditions, but many who've done it have stunning images of the ice tunnel.
You don't actually have to enter the cave to soak up the extreme beauty of the place, which is about as close to a true winter wonderland as you're going to find. The main trail leads directly to the foot of the falls, though it can be a challenging hike through deep snow.
For adventurous winter explorers, however, the pay-off is big. Each year an array of incredible photos pop up of the falls, both from in front and behind the frozen cascade of water.
Manitoulin Island is about a six hour trip in the winter, so if it's just frozen waterfalls that you're after, a short journey to Hamilton might be time better spent. For hardcore winter explorers, however, Bridal Veil Falls can't be beat.
Latest Videos
Latest Videos
Join the conversation Load comments
