11:30 a.m. | Rossport Coastal Trail 

Lace up your hiking shoes and stretch out the driving kinks on the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior’s North Shore for an incredible hike. Follow the 1.5 km Rossport Coastal Trail as it reveals hidden coves, idyllic beaches flanked by emerald-green water, and enjoy a scenic picnic lakeside. 

2:30 p.m. | Nipigon Lookout Tower

A lookout worth pulling off the highway for! Revel in 360-degree views of Lake Superior, the Nipigon River Tower and Lake Helen, and take the opportunity to snap a postcard-perfect photo of the mountainous rolling terrain that just passed in your rearview mirror. 

Day 2 – Sleeping Giant

9:00 a.m. | Sleeping Giant Provincial Park 

One of the most sought-after destinations for outdoor adventurers, the hiking trails at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park range from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. To get a taste of the park’s topography, follow the 2.4 km Sea Lion Trail through the dense forest to a diabase rock arch on Lake Superior with views of mountainous terrain and aqua-blue waters.

For those with confident driving skills or a 4-wheel drive vehicle, make the 9 km safari-like drive to the Thunder Bay Lookout. Be prepared for unmatched views of northwestern Ontario’s largest city from a lookout point teetering over an immense rock face. 

11:30 a.m. | Silver Islet General Store 

Travel back in time to mining glory days at the Silver Islet General Store. In the late 1800’s, this tiny hamlet on the tip of the Sibley Peninsula boasted the largest silver mine in Ontario. The historic General store, while owned by many local families over the years, was recently restored and reopened in 2021 by the Saxberg family on its 150th anniversary. Many historic artifacts representing the community’s once roaring mining past adorn the walls and shelves in their new lakeside tea room. A revamped boat launch provides access for anglers and boaters to the locally-roasted coffee with home-baked goods, sweet treats, and small town hospitality of this historic community meeting place. 

12:30 p.m. | Ouimet Canyon 

Sheer cliffs and a 150 m wide gorge characterize this spectacular natural wonder in Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park. Marvel at the column-like patterns in the surrounding volcanic rock, and take out the binoculars for views of arctic plants (usually found 1,000 km north) which survive in the unique environment on the canyon floor 100 m below. A short trail and boardwalk lead to two lookout platforms with jaw-dropping panoramic views, providing a contemplative spot to reflect in nature.  

Day 3 –Thunder Bay

8:00 a.m. | Kangas Sauna 

Thunder Bay has strong Finnish roots and no trip to the city is complete without an overflowing plate of Kangas Sauna’s thin, buttery pancakes. While seemingly a traditional Finnish Sauna when you enter the lobby, the unassuming diner inside is well-known as one of the best places serving this Thunder Bay specialty. Add a side of strawberries and whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

11:00 a.m. | Thunder Oak Cheese 

Gouda is the name of the game at this family-run, award-winning cheese factory in rural Thunder Bay. Take a peek at Thunder Oak Cheese’s cheese-making process from curds to wheels through viewing windows into the production floor, and fill a basket with classic or flavoured goudas to take home. Don’t forget some locally-made jams, preserves and charcuterie to complete your charcuterie board. 

2:00 p.m. | Mount McKay Scenic Lookout 

Anemki Wajiw, also known as Mount McKay, towers 300 m above the city of Thunder Bay on the territory of the Fort William First Nation. With unparalleled views of the city, the Sleeping Giant and Lake Superior, there’s no question this spot is a sacred place. Take a moment to reflect at the war memorial to local Indigenous people who were lost during the Great War, and wander the grounds where pow-wows are held each year. A giant eagle statue, and a beautiful monument in honour of Ojibway elders are not to be missed.