You read the title right – a DAY TRIP to The Bruce Peninsula and Tobermory! It is possible! In this post, I will explain how it’s possible, and what I recommend achieving in your day.
The Bruce Peninsula is one of Ontario’s most loved places! It possesses an assortment of experiences from turquoise waters, breathtaking lookouts, recreational activities, and amazing food.
Now if you have the opportunity to spend more than a day here, please do it! There is a lot to explore. However, not everyone always has that luxury so this is where I will break down how to have the perfect day trip to Tobermory.
STEP 1: Set your alarm.
I (an early bird) always plan to leave before the sun rises. The earlier, the better. Tobermory is a 3.5-hour drive for me, so I prepare everything I need the day before and set my alarm nice and early so I can get up and be on my way. I also like planning to stay at my destination until sunset.
STEP 2: Plan what you want to see.
If you want to explore Flowerpot Island I recommend using your entire day for that plus a stop at a cafe and restaurant. This way, you get a good taste of nature, trails, a boat tour, and a taste of what the town is like. I recommend the glass bottom boat tour so you get to learn about the shipwrecks.
If you’re looking to do more hiking, I recommend reserving two trails – my favourite being Lions Head Lookout, and The Grotto. You need to reserve parking for these online ahead of time, but that makes it easy to plan your itinerary. The Grotto is further than Lions Head, so I prefer to do it earlier in the day and hit Lions Head on the way home.
Let’s break down these trails so you know what you’re getting into:
Lions Head Lookout Trail: This, like many places in the Bruce Peninsula, is a section of the Bruce Trail. If you park at the parking lot for this trail, walking to the lookout and back is about 7km. You will see multiple lookouts, and one main lookout (Lions Head). You will also see Lions Head Pothole and many beautiful views of the forest. The trail is quite rocky and can be a little slippery. Proper footwear is a must here. Pack a snack, water, and some sun protection. You can also walk beyond the main lookout and make this a much longer hike.
The Grotto: To get to the Grotto, there are options for trail routes and also the Cyprus Lake trail. Park at the main parking lot, and pick an option to hike the Georgian Bay Trail (1.5km), the Horse Lake Trail (2.1km) or the Marr Lake Trail (1.5km) to get to the Grotto (or just hike the Cyprus Lake trail). Once you get to the Grotto, you can also explore the Overhanging Point and the Indian Head Cove. People swim here from spring until fall but wear a wet suit if planning on going when the water is colder.
STEP 3: Plan your meals.
Packing food, snacks and water is always important – however, you can also make time to enjoy some local food and beverages. Tobermory has restaurants, food trucks, and cafés that are worth checking out, and it’s fun to see what small towns have to offer. There is also a Foodland in town to get groceries if you need them. Be sure to always have access to some type of snack and water while on a trail nonetheless.
Step 4: Packing.
Pack in the days leading up to your day trip so you have time to add something that you may have forgotten. Here is a list of things I recommend you bring:
- Water Bottle(s)
- Snacks (Energy Bars, Trail Mix, Fruit/Veggie Mix, Crackers, Etc.)
- Change of Clothes
- Swimsuit/Wetsuit
- Sun Protection (Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses)
- Bug Spray
- Hiking Footwear
- Camera
- Rain Protection
STEP 5: The day has come! Enjoy 👋🏻
This trip is putting your full tank of gas to good use, I guarantee! It will truly be an adventure to remember.
Remember to slow down, be present, and admire what you see. Life is short. This is why we’re here – to experience this Earth and all it has to offer us.
Well, friends, I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog and I hope this inspired you to get out there.
Until the next adventure,
Kate 🥾🌲
Extra Tips for this Guide:
Some wildlife you may see includes:
- Snakes (gardener & rattlesnakes)
- Bears
- Moose
- Coyotes (I have seen lots of these on the road-drive safely & be aware!)
- Turtles
- Porcupine
- Fox
- Lots of chipmunks
Other places here to Explore:
- Halfway Log Dump
- Singing Sands
- Bruce Peninsula National Park
- Ferry Ride to South Baymouth
- Big Tub Lighthouse
- Malcolm Bluff Shores Nature Reserve
- the Bruce Trail
- Spirit Rock Conservation Area
CLICK HERE FOR A FREE DOWNLOADABLE CHECKLIST FOR THINGS TO DO IN THE BRUCE PENINSULA
If you end up going here as a day trip, tag me in your photos! @yourmatiekatie #katieoutdoors
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