Lion's Head

Lion's Head Nature Reserve is one of our favorite destinations - largely undiscovered, yet one of the most beautiful places in Eastern North America, it boasts incredible views, geological wonders, and natural environment that is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can experience Lion's Head on a day trip - the bus will drop you off in the Village of Lion's Head at 4 Mill Street, and you can walk about 15 minutes / 1km to the trailhead located at 5 McCurdy Drive. From there you have 2 choices - follow the Bruce Trail for approximately 4km to Lion's Head Lookout, or follow the road for another 200m and take a shortcut via Moore Street Side Trail, which will shorten your trip by about 500m. See the trailhead map.

On the way to Lion's Head Lookout, you will come across several 10,000 year old geolocial formations, including giant potholes and cave-like structures in the limestone. Once you reach the lookout, you will come across one of the most beautiful spots in Canada. From there, you can turn back if you are on a day trip - or if you are staying in Lion's Head overnight and have more time, you can continue down towards McKay Harbour, a secluded, but very scenic rocky beach, where you can take a dip in the fridgit blue waters of Georgian Bay. Please note that the descent to McKay Harbour is very steep, rugged and requires extra time and stamina - be sure to time yourself to make it back to the bus.

If you are attempting this hike on your own, we recommend that you bring plenty of water, use appropriate footwear, and most importantly download the official Bruce Trail Map App, which will show you exactly where you are on the trail - so you won't get lost. Also learn how to identify Bruce Trail Blazes (trail markers on trees) - here is a handy legend.

Please remember that this is a self-guided trip, and you alone are responsible for your safety, and for making it back to the bus on time. There is limited cellphone reception on the trail, and the bus cannot wait for missing passengers - give yourself plenty of time, and if you make it back to town early, you can relax on a scenic sandy beach right in the Village, or grab early dinner at Lion's Head Inn - both located less than 5 min walk away from the bus pickup spot.