Bonnechere Caves

About Bonnechere Caves

Bonnechere Caves is one of Ontario's premier natural attractions, located just outside the village of Eganville in the Ottawa Valley. The cave system dates back to the Ordovician period of the Paleozoic era — roughly 500 million years ago — when the region was covered by a vast tropical sea. Over hundreds of millions of years, acidic groundwater slowly dissolved the limestone bedrock, carving out the underground passages visitors explore today.

The caves are one of the best examples in the world of solution caves, formed entirely by the chemical dissolution of solid rock rather than by erosion. The Hinsperger family has owned and operated the attraction since 1955, making it a multi-generational family business in the Ottawa Valley.

The Cave Tour

Guided tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis — no reservations are needed. Each tour lasts approximately one hour and includes up to 25 visitors with a knowledgeable guide.

The experience begins with a short, hands-on information session about the geology and rock formations of the area, followed by a brief stop at a scenic lookout overlooking the Bonnechere River. The main event is the guided walk through the underground cave system along boardwalks.

Inside the caves, you'll see:

• Fossilized marine life — coral, gastropods, cephalopods, crinoid rings, brachiopods, and even an ancient octopus fossil
• Stalactites and other mineral formations created by centuries of water flow
• Dramatic cave architecture — tall ceilings and narrow passages carved from solid limestone

The cave maintains a constant temperature of approximately 13°C (55°F) year-round, regardless of outside weather. Even on the hottest summer days, a light jacket is recommended.

Visitor Information

Season & Hours

• Open: Victoria Day long weekend (mid-May) through Canadian Thanksgiving weekend (mid-October)
• May to Labour Day: Daily, 10 AM - 4 PM
• Labour Day to Thanksgiving: Weekends only, 10 AM - 4 PM

Admission

All prices include tax and parking. Confirm current rates at bonnecherecaves.com before your visit.

Accessibility

• The caves are not wheelchair or stroller accessible — the underground passages involve stairs, uneven surfaces, and narrow boardwalks
• For infants, a backpack carrier or front carrier is recommended
• Low-heeled shoes with good grip are required — sections of the cave floor are wet and slippery
• The tour is suitable for all ages, but visitors should be able to navigate stairs independently

Tips for Families

• Dress in layers — even in summer, the cave interior is a cool 13°C. Bring a light jacket for kids
• Wear sturdy footwear — running shoes or hiking boots with good soles are ideal. Avoid sandals or flip-flops
• Arrive early on weekends — tours run frequently but summer weekends can be busy
• Pack a picnic — there are picnic tables on site, and the Bonnechere River setting is scenic
• Combine with other stops — the nearby village of Eganville and the Bonnechere River area offer additional attractions
• Children are engaged throughout the tour — guides are known for making the geology accessible and fun for young visitors

Getting There from Ottawa

Bonnechere Caves is approximately 140 km west of downtown Ottawa, about a 1.5-hour drive via Highway 17 (Trans-Canada).

Driving directions:

1. Take Highway 417 West, which becomes Highway 17 past Arnprior
2. Continue on Highway 17 to Renfrew
3. From Renfrew, follow Highway 60 west to Eganville
4. In Eganville, turn south on Fourth Chute Road — the caves are well-signed from the village

The drive passes through the scenic Ottawa Valley, making it a pleasant day trip from the city.