A scenic view from the Ontario Parks-built viewing platform overlooking Devil’s Glen Country Club.

Devil’s Playground

 by Cara Williams | photography by Clay Dolan

From summits to stairways, Devil’s Glen Provincial Park calls to adventure seekers. Whether you’re hiking deep into the Mad River Gorge or scaling its craggy cliffs, this rugged park is where nature’s raw beauty reigns supreme.

Autumn unveils its vibrant beauty at Devil’s Glen Provincial Park, a hidden gem for those seeking rugged yet rewarding adventures. The park’s dramatic gorge, sculpted over millennia by retreating glaciers, stands as a powerful testament to nature’s forces. Towering cliffs rise above the winding Mad River, which flows through this ancient landscape like a thread connecting past and present. Set on the Manitoulin Bedrock Ledge, where a glacial meltwater channel once traced the Escarpment’s edge, the gorge seems to stretch beyond the horizon. The upper rim is crowned by Silurian Amabel dolomite, a striking limestone formation.

For those who visit, Devil’s Glen offers much more than a casual day hike. This is a place where the land invites exploration and challenges adventurers to take in its rugged beauty. The loop trail, which is open year-round, rewards hikers with sweeping views of the valley and gorge. The trail’s steep inclines provide just the right amount of challenge for intermediate hikers, and at 8.8 kilometres, it connects with the Ganaraska Trail and offers about three hours of solid trekking. It’s the perfect way to experience the natural landscape up close.

Autumn colour along the Mad River.

The Bruce Trail, one of Ontario’s most iconic hiking routes, also winds through Devil’s Glen, offering some of the region’s most breathtaking views. The trail weaves through forests and climbs to reveal stunning lookouts of the Mad River Valley. Part of the Bruce Trail passes through Devil’s Glen Country Club property, so hikers are encouraged to be mindful and stay on the trail. We owe a nod of thanks to the Club for allowing this access, which opens even more of the area’s beauty for public enjoyment.

One of the highlights of the park is the viewing platform, built by Ontario Parks, which provides a panoramic view of the valley below. From this vantage point, the valley unfolds, especially spectacular in autumn when the trees are ablaze with colour. A stairway leads from the platform down the embankment, inviting further exploration. It’s important to note that the land adjacent to the platform is private, so be sure to respect the boundaries.

Dustin Johnston-Jewell scaling Slippery People (5.11c), one of Devil’s Glen’s finest traditional climbing routes, established in the early 80s. Photo by Will Tam.

Devil’s Glen is also a hotspot for rock climbers—the limestone cliffs, weathered by time, offer climbing routes for all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Sun Worshipper Wall is a favourite, especially in cooler weather when the sun lights up its upper sections. The quiet solitude found at the base of these cliffs adds to the appeal—it’s a space where nature’s grandeur takes centre stage.

Beyond hiking and climbing, Devil’s Glen is a haven for birdwatchers. The park is home to a variety of bird species. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant calls of songbirds or the thrill of spotting a woodpecker at work, the park’s wildlife offers something for everyone.

The Mad River plays a key role in shaping Devil’s Glen. A dam on the river creates Glen Huron Pond, while nearby, Sly’s Cabin stands as a testament to the area’s long history. The cabin is maintained by Hamilton Bros., Devil’s Glen Country Club, and the Bruce Trail Association, reflecting the collaborative spirit of those who care for this land.

Looking to the future, there’s talk of expanding Devil’s Glen Provincial Park to protect more of its unique features and provide additional recreational opportunities. This expansion would not only safeguard rare plants and wildlife but also enhance public access to trails and climbing areas. It’s a positive step toward preserving the rugged beauty of the Escarpment for generations to come.

Camping is not currently permitted at Devil’s Glen, though it once was. Clearview Township has requested that the park reopen for camping, alongside improvements to parking facilities. If approved, these changes would offer visitors more ways to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty, allowing for longer stays under the stars in this stunning wilderness.

Despite its growing popularity, Devil’s Glen remains a wonderfully wild and untouched escape. There are no entry fees or built-up facilities here—just the land, raw and beautiful, waiting to be explored. Parking is available along County Road 124, just west of the Devil’s Glen Country Club entrance. From there, the park is accessible only by foot, keeping its remote feel intact. Fires and camping may be restricted, but this only helps preserve the park’s pristine condition, ensuring it remains a place for quiet reflection and adventure.

What makes Devil’s Glen so special is the balance between challenge and serenity. Whether you’re climbing its sunlit cliffs, hiking along the Bruce Trail, or standing on the viewing platform soaking in the view, this is a place where you can truly escape. It’s where the natural beauty of the Escarpment shines brightest—a hidden gem that leaves a lasting impression. E