Here's how you can swim in an abandoned Ontario quarry this summer
If you're looking for a fun swimming hole to visit in Ontario this summer, good news: the St. Marys Quarry officially opened for the season a few weeks ago.
The quarry is located in the town of St. Marys and is approximately a 2.5-hour drive west of Toronto. It's a unique aquatic experience and perfect for swimmers and sun lovers alike, whether you want to escape the summer heat or soak in some rays.
While the quarry is perfect for day trippers in the modern era, it was originally excavated as a limestone quarry used to supply St. Marys with the raw materials used to build much of what stands in town to this day. The abundance of limestone sourced from the quarry even earned St. Marys the nickname "Stonetown."
It was in operation from the mid-1800s to 1920 and was then abandoned. When it was transformed in 1945, it began a new life as what is considered the largest freshwater pool in the country.
For 80 years, the swimming hole has been a go-to spot for anyone seeking to cool off in fresh, crystal-clear waters.
If you're more of a thrill seeker, consider leaping off the limestone cliffs that line the swimming hole, because nothing says summer like a bit of adventure. Just be sure to check in with local guidelines as you're only permitted to cliff jump when water levels allow it.
The quarry is also home to Super Splash, a huge floating water park unlike any other in Ontario — it's basically an inflatable obstacle course on the water. Admission is timed for 2 hours, so make sure to grab tickets early.
Try out Super Splash, an inflatable obstacle course on the water. Photo: St Marys Tourism
If you're not a big fan of swimming, the site also features nearby grassy areas for sunbathing. Plus, the town's main street, just a five-minute drive up, features places to shop or to grab a bite to eat.
Tickets to the quarry are $7.50 for adults and $5 for youth. Timed admission can be purchased through their registration page.
The quarry is open daily from June 27 until Labour Day, between 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Town of St. Marys
