The Cheltenham Badlands are a spectacular natural landscape of rolling red Queenston shale. This geological treasure is one of the most recognizable and visited natural heritage landmarks in southern Ontario.
This formation was once the bottom of an ancient seabed. The red shale became exposed when the thin topsoil eroded away with farming and tree removal in the early 1900’s. Weather conditions such as rain and snow melt caused further erosion which created the distinct landscape of gullies and hummocks.
More recently, efforts to reduce erosion from foot traffic have been implemented in the area. Come and enjoy the view from the designated trails and boardwalks. The Cheltenham Badlands are accessible by the Badlands Trail VIA the Bruce Trail. Visit the CVC to learn more about reservations and parking.
The Cheltenham Badlands is only a short drive (10 min) from Heatherlea Farm Shoppe, where we have lunch and lattes waiting for you!
