SCUTTLEHOLES - MOIRA RIVER This area is considered to be an
outstanding example of a karst development which is only uncommonly
found throughout Ontario. The Moira Karst site extends from Latta
in the south to Chisholm's Mill in the north. The Ontario Ministry
of Natural Resources has deemed the area to be ANSI (Area of
Natural & Scientific Interest) & is geologically &
ecologically sensitive. As such, please stay on the clearly marked
trail & respect the area immediately surrounding the cache
site. Unique geological features have been created in the limestone
bedrock by the dissolving action of water erosion. Features range
from sinkholes, collapsed caverns, underground channels, limestone
islands to blind channels in the river's course. Sections of the
river actually disappear underground only to resurface further
downstream. While many of the geological formations are on private
property (such as the Moira Cave with its 1000 meters of
passageways) & not available to the public, a good example of a
scuttlehole can be seen at: N44 19.107 W077 19.761. It is
approximately 3 m high, 10 m long & 5 m wide & can be
entered cautiously during snow-free months. Please use caution
& discretion as it requires a short but steep 3 m climb down a
limestone formation. It is unnecessary to enter the cave as the
cache is located about 40 m away. What's really strange about the
area is that during July , August & into September you can walk
on sections of the dry limestone riverbed. However, during the
spring runoff the Moira River Canoe Club perform their annual
whitewater races in the same location!! From the cave location you
can see the guy wires that hold the racing gates stretched across
the river. The cache is available year round but exploration of the
entire area is best during the months listed above. Pictures (taken
over the past 2 years) of the cave, dry riverbed & whitewater
kayaking all taken within 100 m of the cave location are included
with this listing.
Enjoy but please use caution with kids near the river during
the spring runoff & at other times due to several visible
collapsed sinkholes and open caves.
Congratulations to butterfly5 on the FTF!!
rlr uvtu, hc & bire n ebpx.