Hidden Mysterious Potholes
By Haliburton Highlands
Deep in the forests of Haliburton Highlands, high above the Little Drag River, lies a geologic mystery unlike anything else in Ontario. Known as the Harburn Wells, these perfectly round and cylindrical holes — ten or eleven in total — are naturally bored into solid Precambrian gneiss. They range in size from about three feet to three metres wide. The wells are spectacular in form and formation, clustered tightly on a single acre of rugged hillside.
Set in a landform reminiscent of the Highlands, the Harburn Wells remain one of the county’s most intriguing and little-known features. No one knows exactly how they formed, and their origin continues to fascinate geologists and nature lovers alike.
harburn wells
Remote, Rugged, and Protected
The Harburn Wells are not just remote — they’re nearly impossible to stumble upon by accident. There are no trails, no signs, and no public access routes to the site. Although the wells themselves are located on a small municipal parcel owned by Dysart et al, they are surrounded on all sides by private land.
Despite the occasional curiosity seeker, visiting the Harburn Wells without a guide is strongly discouraged. Online directions and GPS coordinates are not only unreliable, they often lead visitors onto private property, creating issues for landowners and potential safety concerns for explorers.
You’ll Need a Guide
The only safe and respectful way to experience the Harburn Wells is with a guide who knows the land. Someone like a guide from Yours Outdoors.
With a local guide and eco-tourism operator, they will offer curated trips to this hidden geological gem. They can safely lead small groups to the site, while sharing stories and insight about the natural and cultural history of the area.
If you’re interested in visiting, contact Yours Outdoors to inquire about upcoming dates. Tours are typically organized based on demand, so your interest might help spark the next outing.
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A Word of Caution
Because the wells are unmarked and unfenced, they pose a real danger to curious pets or children. The vertical shafts drop deep into the rock, and falling in would require technical rescue. Visitors are expected to be cautious and respectful of the site’s natural and private boundaries.