FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: What if it rains?

A: Scenic Caves Nature Adventures and Eco Tours operate rain or shine. Please be prepared and bring along a raincoat, poncho or seasonal clothing.

Q: What if there is thunder and lightning?

A: If there is heavy rain, strong winds or lighting, the trails may be closed until the storm subsides. Eco Adventure Tours may be cancelled and rescheduled under such conditions and a rain cheque issued.
Please view the current local weather forecast on the “Weather/Cam” tab. If you are concerned about the weather, call ahead to check availability of activities: (705) 446-0256

Q: Why do I need running shoes at Scenic Caves Adventures?

A: Closed-toed and closed-back running shoes or hiking boots are mandatory for your safety due to the uneven, rocky terrain. Due to covid, our gift shop is not currently carrying running shoes this year.  If you forget, there are many retailers in the area who also sell appropriate footwear.

Q: What are the age restrictions for the Caves and Suspension Bridge?

A: There are no age restrictions and many park activities are geared for families. The caves and trails feature rocky terrain and steep stairs. Children must be accompanied by parents.

Q: Can I bring a stroller into the park?

A: Strollers are only permitted in the playground and picnic area. When the tractor/wagon is operating, strollers may be transported to the Suspension bridge. We recommend baby carriers should be used when hiking in the caves and caverns. Visitors may borrow baby carriers at no charge.

Q: I understand it takes 2 hrs. to walk through the caves and suspension bridge. Does that mean it takes 2 hrs. to return?

A: We suggest you allow at least two hours to visit the caves/caverns and suspension bridge, but encourage you to spend the day exploring all the activities.

Q: Is there a time limit on how long I can stay in the Park?

A: Park admission provides access for the day, as well as in/out privileges. Tickets may be purchased up to 2 hours before closing.

Q: Do we have to make a reservation to do the Caves, Suspension Bridge or the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line?

A: No reservations are required for the park activities. Please consult Hours of Operation tab for Thunderbird Twin Zip schedule. Reservations are only required for the guided Eco Adventure Tour

Q: If you have a fear of heights (vertigo), is the suspension bridge scary?

A: The suspension bridge is lined by a four foot high chain link fence with handrail on both sides. It is flexible, moving with the wind and your weight as you cross it. You can view the suspension bridge, but do not have to cross it if you are uncomfortable.

Q: How physically demanding is the walk through the Caves/Caverns and down to the Suspension Bridge?

A: The Caves trails involve some stairs and steep climbs but should be accessible for most people. Anyone in your party who is not comfortable with the stairs and trails can relax in the picnic area, playground or fish pond area. (Children should never be left alone in these areas).

Q: Are there any issues with “large adults” passing through the narrow caves?

A: If any tight cave locations are outside your ‘comfort zone’, they can be bypassed.

Q: Do we descend into the caves for gemstone mining?

A: The gemstone mining is not done in the caves with hardhats or picks. The experience involves ‘panning’ for semi-precious stones, rocks and minerals. The gemstone mining water tower is located beside the main entrance.

Q: Can I bring my dog to Scenic Caves?

A: We are sorry but we insist on our “No Pets Policy” for the enjoyment of all our guests. Dogs or cats, no matter how small or how cute are not permitted at any time of year.

Q: Can I smoke at Scenic Caves?

A: Scenic Caves Nature Adventures is a smoke free environment. Smoking is permitted in designated areas.

Q: May I bring a personal ‘drone’ to film activities?

A: Sorry, no. Professional film crews are requested to detail their request by email: info@sceniccaves.com

Q: Is Scenic Caves Nature Adventures open year-round?

A: Almost! Some activities are weather-dependent. April and November are transitional seasons, so please check with us regarding availability of activities.

Q: Are the Caves/Caverns, Eco Adventure Tours and Nordic Centre open during Holidays?

A: Yes, we are open all holidays and weekends including: Family Day, Easter weekend, Victoria Day weekend, Canada Day, Labour Day weekend, Thanksgiving weekend, Remembrance Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Q: Do you offer birthday party bookings year-round?

A: Yes! Please contact us to assist you with party planning.

Q: Are the caves, caverns and trails accessible for a person with a disability?

A: Unfortunately due to the steep inclines and rocky terrain, the caves are not accessible for a person who is physically challenged. The picnic area, fish pond, snack bar, gift shop, gemstone mining areas are accessible for a person with mobility impairment. The accessible washrooms are located outside of the Eco Adventure Tour cabin. There are two accessible parking spaces in the main parking lot.

Q: Can you prepay the admission for the scenic caves entrance fee ahead of time (online).

A: At this time, we do not offer online ticket sales. However, if you would like to pre-pay tickets as a gift, we can issue a gift certificate with credit card payment. Reservations are not required for caves admission.

Q: Is there bus service to the caves from Blue Mountains?

A: Unfortunately no. However, taxis are available from any of the Blue Mountain accommodations.

Q: I don’t drive. How would I get to Scenic Caves by public transportation?

A: There is Greyhound bus service to Collingwood from various cities in Ontario. We recommend contacting Greyhound directly for complete details: 1-800-661-8747 / www.greyhound.ca. Upon arrival in downtown Collingwood, you will need to take a taxi to Scenic Caves (approximately 15 minute ride). Two reliable taxi companies in Collingwood are: Ace Cabs (705) 446-3300 / Kyle’s Taxi (705) 429-5300.

Q: Can I purchase a gift certificate ?

A: Absolutely. Gift certificates are available for all of the centres: Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, Eco Adventure and Nordic Adventures. Certificates may be ordered over the phone with a credit card and are mailed to you. Call (705) 446-0256.

THUNDERBIRD TWIN ZIP LINE

Q: Why can’t the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line be purchased as a single ride?

A: The Twin Zip is located inside the park, and you have to walk through the caves & caverns trails to access it.

Q: Is there much of a hike to the Thunderbird Twin Zip starting point?

A: If you don’t wish to explore the caves first, the hike straight to the Thunderbird Twin Zip area takes approximately 10 minutes.

Q: Is the zip line safe for people with chronic low back pain/past disc protrusions?

A: Anyone with back issues may find the harness uncomfortable.

Q: Are there age restrictions for the Thunderbird Twin Zip?

A: The new Thunderbird Twin Zip Line requires riders to be at least 10 years old, a minimum of 48” tall (4 ft.) and a maximum of 82” tall (6’ 10”), and a minimum of 50 lbs. to a maximum of 260 lbs. Youth ages 10-15 must ride zipline with an adult.

Q: Is the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line part of the Eco Adventure Tour?

A: No… The Thunderbird Twin Zip Line is one-half mile long and features two parallel zip lines. However, It may be added at a discounted rate, to an Eco Adventure Tour.

ECO ADVENTURE TOUR

Q: What if it rains?

A: The guided Eco Adventure Tours run rain or shine. If there are high winds or lightening then they may be cancelled and rescheduled and a rain cheque is issued.

Q: Are the restrictions for the Eco Tour Adventure the same as the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line restrictions?

A: Not quite. There are no age restrictions for the Eco Adventure Tour, but there are height and weight restrictions. Participants must be 4’8” tall (or be with someone 5’4” or taller) and weigh between 70lbs – 250lbs. A waiver must be signed. If you are close to the requirement limits it is best to call the Eco Tour office directly to ask…..705-446-0256 x227.

The new Thunderbird Twin Zip Line requires riders to be at least 10 years old, a minimum of 48” tall (4 ft.) and a maximum of 82” tall (6’ 10”), and a minimum of 50 lbs. to a maximum of 260 lbs. Youth ages 10-15 must ride zipline with an adult.

Q: After booking my Eco Tour online, I tried to add a Twin Zip ride to it, but there was no online option for it.

A: Reservations are not required for the Thunderbird Twin Zip ride. You can pay for it when you check in for your Eco tour at the Eco Cabin.

Q: If I purchase the life experiences gift card for an Eco Adventure Tour, is there any discount on the Thunderbird Twin Zip?

A: All Eco Tour guests may purchase a ride on the Thunderbird at a discount price.

Q: How many ziplines are there at Scenic Caves and what is the length of each of them?

A: The Eco Adventure Tour features two ziplines: a 300 foot zipline through the forest and a 1000 ft. escarpment zipline.

The new Thunderbird Twin Zip Line is a separate adventure – a half mile (2550 feet) dual zip line using new technology allowing each rider to control their own speed.

Q: I received a gift card for an Eco Adventure Tour as a Christmas present, but haven’t been able to use it yet. May I use it for other Scenic Caves Packages?

A: There is no date restriction on gift cards. Gift Certificates are applicable to the specific package and are not transferrable between packages.

Q: I’m coming with my family to Scenic Caves, but am not taking the Eco Adventure Tour. Is it possible to take a video/photos of them?

A: A general Scenic Caves park admission is required for all guests entering the grounds. You may watch and photograph your family members getting geared up and trained during their circle gathering. Once they head off with their guides, enjoy your own self-guided tour of the caves, caverns & lookouts…or take a ride on the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line. After approximately 2.5 hours, return to the Eco Cabin/parking lot area where you can take videos/photos as they descend on the final 1000 ft. zip line.

NORDIC ADVENTURES

Q: What percentage of your trails are groomed for the skating technique?

A: With the exception of “Easy Peesy”, all the trails are groomed for skate skiing. It’s the only trail that is double track set for a fairly narrow 2 way trail. The other 26km have a track on the right side and the left side is untracked for skate skiing.

Q: Do you have to cross the Suspension Bridge on the snowshoe trail?

A: The Suspension Bridge trail is just one of seven trails. The Creekside trail leads you under the bridge. Or, there are short cuts which will take you back to the main area.

Q: Can a child of any age snowshoe the trails?

A: If you can walk, you can snowshoe. However your child’s stamina will determine how far they can trek.

Q: Are there trails you can suggest for children age three and under? May we pull them in sleds?

A: With caution, you may pull little ones on a sled on the snowshoe trails, but not on the groomed x-country trails. “Nature Trail” is a recommended snowshoe trail. The “Easy Peezy” and “Blue Sky” trails are easiest for x-country skiing.

Q: Do the snowshoe rentals come with boots?

A: Snowshoe rentals do not include footwear. We recommend you wear boots which cover your ankles (and higher!) or lightweight, flexible hiking boots. A limited supply of snowboots or cross country ski boots may be rented for snowshoeing.

Q: Can a baby glider (pulka) be used on the snowshoe trails?

A: The baby glider is designed for ski trails so it can handle slopes. It may be used on certain, flatter snowshoe trails, but is not recommended for slanted snowshoe trails.

Q: Can you book Nordic Adventure packages online or reserve equipment?

A: Reservations are not required. Rentals are first-come, first-served.

Q: When are guided night snowshoe hikes scheduled?

A: Guided hikes must be booked in advance and may be reserved by telephone.