Photo via Discover St. Marys
Ontario is home to Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater pool, and it’s gearing up to open for the summer season soon. This gem is none other than St. Marys Quarry.
About a two-hour drive west of Toronto is the town of St Marys. It’s an all-season experience known for its small-town charm. It’s also known as “The Stonetown,” due to its historic limestone architecture.
The limestone touch is not only found holding up its historic buildings, but it is also found within one of its popular summertime attractions.
According to the Town of St. Marys, its swimming hole was once a limestone quarry back in the 1920s.
It wasn’t until the mid-1940s that it was converted into a public swimming area and remains one of the most popular spots in the area to visit on hot summer days.
The massive outdoor swimming area has remained popular every summer and with reason.
Per the Town, this former limestone quarry is now Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool.
It’s full of attractions and amenities such as cliff-jumping (if water levels permit), a 25-foot water trampoline, rafts and slides, a canteen, and picnic areas.
The cliff-jumping area can be enjoyed by all visitors ages 8 and up who have been given green or blue bands.
Given its history as a natural quarry, the water is deep and can feel pretty chilly at times. The bottom is rocky, and you may encounter fish, weeds, and slippery surfaces as you swim.
The quarry also has an inflatable floating waterpark called Super Splash Waterpark that you can enjoy for an extra cost.
There are life jackets on site that you can borrow for free if you’re not a strong swimmer or simply want to float.
You can also bring a noodle with you, but inflatables aren’t permitted at the quarry.
But that’s not all! There are actually two quarries to visit in the area. The neighbouring quarry across the road is a haven for fishing.
Various species of fish can be found in these waters, including Common Carp, Pumpkinseed, and Rock Bass.
According to the Town, the west quarry is for fishing only, and swimming is not permitted there.
Now, as for when you can jump into the quarry, you’ll have to wait until the weather gets warmer. According to the Town, the quarry will be open for the season starting June 27, 2025.
Mark your calendars and plan out your summer trips. We’ll see you there!
When: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily until Sept. 1, 2025
Where: 425 Water St. S., St. Marys, Ont.
Cost: $7.50 per adult per swim time, $5 per child per swim time
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