Cheltenham Badlands

The Cheltenham Badlands, an Ontario geological gem, originated around 450 million years ago at the bed of an ancient sea. Between 1850 and 1950, European settlers cleared the area for homesteads, leading to soil erosion and the distinct Queenston shale formations.

The removal of trees and early farming caused rapid erosion of the shale, creating the iconic ridge and gully landscape now recognized as the Cheltenham Badlands.

This 36-hectare site has been preserved as a natural heritage landmark, drawing visitors from around the world to view its striking geological features.