EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism

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EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
T H U N D E R B AY
E XPERIENCE
   ONTA R IO   CANADA   I S S U E 15 | 2 0 2 2
EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO, CANADA                            THUND E R BAY E XP E RIE NC E M AGAZINE

Built on traditional lands
                                                        PUBLISHER         Tourism Thunder Bay
of Fort William First
                                                        EDITORS           Karen Martin, Jennifer Grundy and Erin Simmons – Tourism Thunder Bay
Nation, signatory to                                    TOURISM MANAGER Paul Anthony Pepe
the Robinson-Superior                                   ART DIRECTOR      Amanda Phillips – Generator Strategy Advertising

Treaty of 1850, and                                     ACCOUNT MANAGER Daniel Griffin – Generator Strategy Advertising

on historic Métis                                       PRINTING          TC Transcontinental Printing

settlements.                                            COVER             Denis Bresolin

                                                        TOURISM THUNDER BAY WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE MANY CITY OF THUNDER BAY DEPARTMENTS

                                                        AND THEIR STAFF, OUR LOCAL AND REGIONAL TOURISM PARTNERS AND ANY OTHERS NOT LISTED WHO HAVE

                                                        CONTRIBUTED TO THE PRODUCTION OF THIS MAGAZINE.

                                                        Karen Martin
                                                        (807) 625-3969 • karen.martin@thunderbay.ca

                                                        The Thunder Bay Experience magazine is a local and area visitor magazine
                                                        published once a year.

                                                        Tourism Thunder Bay makes no representation or warranty, either express or
 © Ryan Novak

                                                        implied, of any kind with respect to the contents of this publication. While every
                                                        effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is possible that the information in
                                                        this magazine contains errors or omissions. Please verify information with the
                                                        listed suppliers.

                                                        While Tourism Thunder Bay takes reasonable care in selecting the listed suppliers,
                                                        it does not have any control over them or their suppliers. Tourism Thunder Bay
#SAFETR AVELS
                                                        cannot be responsible for any of the acts or omissions of any suppliers.
Tourism Thunder Bay has been awarded a
#SafeTravels Stamp by the World Travel & Tourism        © Tourism Thunder Bay. All rights reserved. Individual works are also copyrighted

Council (WTTC) for adopting health and hygiene global   by their originators. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior
standardized protocols.                                 written permission.

The WTTC in conjunction with the industry, including
the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)      Tourism Thunder Bay

has created a self-certified Safe Travel Stamp. It is   Suite 701, 34 North Cumberland Street
based on worldwide industry protocols the WTTC has      Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4L3
put together for every aspect of the hospitality and    Toll-free: 1-800-MOST-FUN (667-8386)
tourism sector.                                                                                                                CONNECT WITH US
                                                        visit@thunderbay.ca
The specially designed stamp                            visitthunderbay.com
will allow travellers to recognize
governments and companies                               ON THE COVER: Prince Arthur's Landing, by Denis Bresolin –
around the world that have                              winner of the 2022 Experience Guide Photo Contest, including a
adopted health and hygiene                              prize package valued over $2,500.
global standardised protocols –                         Additional entries from our contest can be found throughout the
so consumers can experience                             magazine, credited with an *. Thank you to all who entered!
‘Safe Travels.’
EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
welcome

                                                                                                                                                            © Chad Kirvan
                 MAYOR BILL MAURO
© Scott MacKay

                 WELCOMES YOU
                 As Mayor of Thunder Bay, it is my great pleasure to           “Lake Superior evokes a feeling
                 welcome visitors to our city and area.
                                                                                of wonder in all of us, residents
                 When I speak with visitors to Thunder Bay, my eyes
                 are opened once again to the physical majesty and              and visitors alike.”
                 warm-hearted culture of our city and the outstanding
                 recreational opportunities we have to offer. As a lifelong
                 resident of Thunder Bay, I take great pride in what we        Despite the challenges of the last two years, many new
                 have here and what our community offers.                      restaurants have opened, joining longstanding favourites
                                                                               in serving foods from many culinary traditions, and in a
                 Located at the head of the Great Lakes, at the intersection   variety of formats.
                 of Highways 11, 17 and 61, Thunder Bay is built on the
                 traditional territory of the Ojibwe people of Fort William    Our city looks forward to welcoming the cruise ships,
                 First Nation, signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of    Viking Octantis and Ocean Navigator, scheduled to arrive
                 1850 - and is also a historic Métis settlement.               in port this year. Visitors from the ship will join others in
                                                                               enjoying the parklands and exciting urban area laid out
                 Thunder Bay is an exciting destination for outdoor            before them. Festivals celebrating Thunder Bay’s unique
                 adventures any time of year! In the summer, enjoy the         foods, cultures and neighbourhoods are held nearly
                 network of urban walking & cycling trails that connect        every weekend in the warmer months.
                 various parts of our city - or head towards Lake Superior
                 or the Sleeping Giant. In the winter, enjoy diverse           This issue of the Thunder Bay Experience Magazine
                 opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and nordic        focuses on Lake Superior. Not only is the Big Lake a focus
                 skiing, in addition to our two dynamic downhill ski areas.    for watersports, fishing and sailing, but it is a vast natural
                 And if you crave more cold-weather adventures, make           feature that evokes a sense of wonder in all of us, residents
                 sure to check out ice climbing.                               and visitors alike.

                 At all times of year, Thunder Bay and its surroundings        We can’t wait to share all of this with you. Come to
                 offer urban parks, regional conservation areas,               Thunder Bay and be part of the adventure!
                 provincial parks and many other attractions for outdoor
                 enjoyment - from simply relaxing in our scenic boreal         Sincerely,
                 woodlands to trying a backwoods canoe excursion.
                                                                               Mayor Bill Mauro
                 Nestled in its beautiful surroundings, Thunder Bay’s          City of Thunder Bay
                 urban area offers diverse and rich cultural experiences.      thunderbay.ca

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EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
welcome

Original Reserve Boundaries
Negotiated in 1850
Fort William First
Nation Reserve as of 2010
Owned by the Fort William
First Nation Development Corp.

     BOOZHOO
                                                                       VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM
                                                                       ON OUR WEBSITE VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM
     If you are planning to explore our
                                                                       YOU WILL FIND A FILTER ABLE, SE ARCHABLE
     beautiful region, then you will be
                                                                       DIRECTORY OF TOURISM BUSINESSES IN
     visiting the traditional territory of the Ojibwe people of Fort
                                                                       THUNDER BAY AND SURROUNDING ARE A . USE IT
     William First Nation – signatory to the Robinson-Superior
                                                                       TO FIND A PL ACE TO STAY, A PL ACE TO SHOP, AN
     Treaty of 1850.
                                                                       E XPERIENCE TO TRY AND MUCH MORE.
     The Anishnaabe people have lived in and around this
     area from time immemorial, and the immense legacy of
     their traditional knowledge, cultural beliefs, practices
     and language have been passed down by Elders from
     generation to generation and are still very evident today.

     The City of Thunder Bay was built on our traditional
                                                                       Tbaytel
     territory, and our communities have benefited from a
     strong relationship for over 200 years. In the early 1800s,
     area Indigenous people traded with the residents of the
                                                                       Public WiFi
     fur trade post that would eventually become Thunder               Free for everyone in the neighbourhood
     Bay. Today, residents of the two communities travel back          Tbaytel makes it easy for everyone in the
     and forth doing business or enjoying the attractions and
                                                                       neighbourhood to stay connected with over
     recreation opportunities found throughout the area.
                                                                       200 free WiFi hotspot locations. From hockey
     One of those attractions is Anemki Wajiw (Thunder                 arenas, pools, healthcare clinics, the airport,
     Mountain) or Mount McKay. Thunder Mountain has been               local businesses, Prince Arthur’s Landing
     a sacred place for our people for centuries and we still
                                                                       at Marina Park and more, our Public WiFi
     have ceremonial pow wows on the mountain. In fact, we
                                                                       network is constantly expanding, which
     redeveloped the pow wow ground in recent years and
     welcome visitors to our celebrations.                             means it’s available in more of the places
                                                                       you like to go.
     From the scenic lookout on the mountain you can see why

                                                                            WiFi
     this area is so special. Trees as far as the eye can see,

                                                                            WiFi
                                                                                                                          Just look for the
     wildlife roaming free, Nanabijou overlooking the bay and                                                             Tbaytel WiFi sign
     two communities side by side.                                                                                          and connect

     We look forward to having you!                                         hotspot
                                                                            hotspot                                           for free.
                                                                             Available to everyone in the neighbourhood
                                                                           Available to everyone in the neighbourhood

     Chi-miigwech.                                                         Technical Support
                                                                           807-623-4400 | 1-800-264-9501

     Chief Peter Collins,
                                                                                    tbaytel.net/wifihotspots
     Fort William First Nation

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      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                       2022
EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
CONTENTS
                                                                38
                                                                 self-guided
                                                                 tours
                                                                                  EXPLORING &
                                                                                  ADVENTURE

                                                                                  28
                                      6
                             ON THE
                             WATER

                                                         GETTING HERE 5                       SHOP 56

                                                         PARKS + LEISURE 20                   STAY 61

                                                         GOLF 26                              WHAT'S ON IN
                                                                                              SPORTS 66
                                                         ENTERTAINMENT 42
                 A MOME           NT                                                          TR AVEL
     CAPTURING                                           GALLERIES                            INFORMATION 68
           Pa g e 4 8                                    + STUDIOS 44
                                                                                              BEYOND THE CITY
                                                         MUSEUMS 46                           LIGHTS 72
                                                         DINING 50

                                           9                                                                              on the trail
                                 WATERFRONT
                                                                                                                          34
                                                         14
   MAPS

                                                          FEELING
                                                          SUPERIOR

Thunder Bay is Canada’s premier outdoor city and urban gateway to attract
leisure, convention and sport tourism visitors from around the world.

Our team is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19. While we make every effort to make sure information and event details
are correct, errors, updates, cancellations or closures may occur. We encourage visitors to double check information before
heading to businesses or attractions to ensure they have the most up-to-date information possible regarding closures.

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FINALLY,
            AN OFFICE WITH
       A VIEW

    Come to the hub of
    Northwestern Ontario

    gotothunderbay.ca/bigpossibilities
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    THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE   2022
EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
travel information

                                                                                                                                                                                          HUDSON
                                                                                                                                                                                          BAY

GETTING
                                                                        WABAKAMI
                                                                        PROVINCIAL PARK

                                                                                          Armstrong
                                                                                                                              Nakina

                                                                                                LAKE                   Geraldton

HERE
                                                                                                NIPIGON

                                                                                                                 11                                     11

                                                                                                                                        Manitouwadge
                                                                                       Nipigon                                 NEYS                                         11
                                                                                                                               PROVINCIAL PARK
                                                                                                17

                                                              Thunder Bay
                                                                                           11
                                                                                                                                      Marathon                               Timmins
                                                                                                     SLEEPING GIANT

                                                                                                                                                             ONTARIO
                                                                                                     PROVINCIAL PARK
                                                                     KAKABEKA FALLS
                                                                     PROVINCIAL PARK
                                                                                                          LAKE SUPERIOR
                                                                                                                                                   17
                                                                                                          NATIONAL MARINE
                                                                                                                                   PUKASKWA

                                                                                                                                                              CANADA
                                                                                                          CONSERVATION AREA
                                                                                                                                   NATIONAL PARK

                                                                                                                                                                                               11

                                                                                                                        LAKE                                                                              QUEBEC
                                                                                                                        SUPERIOR
 Thunder Bay is located in                                                                                                                                                       Sudbury
 the geographic centre of                                                                                                     Sault Ste. Marie                17

                                                                                                                                                                                                     11

 Canada with the border to                             Minneapolis
                                                                                                                                                                                          17                ALGONQUIN
                                                                                                                                                                                                            PROVINCIAL PARK

                                                                                                                                                                                                          Huntsville
 the United States just 45                                                                                                                                         LAKE
                                                                                                                                                                   HURON
                                                                                                                                                                                                     11
                                                               UNITED STATES
 minutes south.                                                OF AMERICA                                                                                                                           17

                                                                                                                                                                                                            LAKE
                                                                                                                                                                                    Toronto
                                                                                                                                                                                                            ONTARIO
                                                                                                                LAKE                                                               Hamilton
                                                                                                                MICHIGAN
                                                                                                                                                                                 London

                                                                                                                                                                            LAKE
                                                                                                      Chicago                                                               ERIE

DRIVING IN                                   FLYING IN                                                                                             AROUND THE
If you’re travelling by road,
Thunder Bay is found at the crossroads
                                             The Thunder Bay International
                                             Airport is the fourth busiest in
                                                                                                                                                   CITY
of Ontario Highways 11, 17 & 61.             Ontario, servicing almost 800,000                                                                     Visitors to Thunder Bay will find most
This means those travelling across           visitors annually through 4 major and                                                                 major car rental agencies, limousine
Canada or North from the U.S. will           numerous small regional airlines.                                                                     van, taxi services, and Uride, a
easily find the city.                        Getting here is easy with Air Canada,                                                                 ride-sharing service. Thunder Bay
                                             Westjet, Porter, Flair, Bearskin and                                                                  Transit provides public, accessible
                                             Wasaya Airlines.                                                                                      transportation throughout the city.
                                                                                                                                                   The city boasts over 100 km of urban
BOATING IN                                   Get real-time arrival and departure
                                             info at tbairport.on.ca.
                                                                                                                                                   recreational trails for exploring on foot
                                                                                                                                                   or by bike.
Located on the shores of Lake
Superior, it is also possible to arrive in
Thunder Bay by boat. There are Great
Lakes cruises that come into port as
well as facilities for private Captains to
arrive with their passengers.

FIND MORE INFORMATION
ON CROSSING THE                                  MORE INFORMATION ON GETTING TO THUNDER BAY AND GETTING AROUND
U.S./CANADA BORDER AT:                           WHILE YOU’RE HERE (INCLUDING MAPS AND GUIDE S) CAN BE FOUND AT
CBSA-A SFC.GC.CA                                 VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/PL ANYOURTRIP.

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on the water

    ON THE WATER
    Located on the shores of the world’s largest freshwater

                                                                                                                          © Kathy Anderson
    lake, Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is the gateway to
    150,000 lakes and rivers – we get water!

    Bring your own boat or hop aboard a boat tour once you get here. Local companies have
    canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and other required equipment for rent. Check out our Business
    Directory at visitthunderbay.com for a complete, up-to-date listing of them all.

    BOAT                                  BOAT TOURS
    LAUNCHES                              Experience the Big Lake, get up       bathrooms: four double cabins and
                                          close to Salties and Lakers, and      one cabin with bunk beds. Imagine
    There are six public boat launches    see the city from a whole new         a Caribbean Catamaran holiday in a
    in and near the city for your         perspective on a Lake Superior        wilderness setting.
    convenience. The City of Thunder      Boat Tour with Sail Superior.
    Bay offers free public launch spots                                         Explore Canadian history by travelling
    at Fisherman’s Park, McKellar         If you’ve got the need for speed,     back in time while visiting Porphyry
    Island and at the end of Mountdale    try the Superior Rocket – a           Island and Lighthouse – a volcanic
    Ave. There is also a launch at        500HP Zodiac that will have the       island surrounded by turquoise
    the Marina for a fee. Just outside    wind whipping through your hair       waters. Archie’s Charters departs
    city limits, boaters can use the      as you fly across the surface of      from Silver Islet Harbour every
    launches provided by the Lakehead     the water.                            Sunday at 9 a.m. and returns before
    Regional Conservation Authority at                                          4 p.m. After visiting the old Silver
    Little Trout Bay or Silver Harbour.   For a longer adventure, try micro-    Islet mine, a 20-minute trip to the
                                          cruising in Sail Superior’s brand-    lighthouse includes panoramic views
                                          new catamaran, SV Welcome. It is      of the Sleeping Giant, Silver Islet and
                                          spacious and elegantly furnished,     Black Bay. Once at Porphyry Island
                                          offering day and night space for 10   you will be given a guided tour before
                                          guests in five cabins with en-suite   returning back to reality.

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     THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE               2022
EXPERIENCE THUNDER BAY - ONTARIO CANADAISSUE15|2022 - Thunder Bay Tourism
on the water

                CANOEING                                 DIVING                                    PADDLE
                AND K AYAKING                            Lake Superior is regarded as one          BOARDING
                                                         of the best sites to dive in the
                EPIC ADVENTURES                                                                    Stand Up Paddle Boarding
                                                         world. Explore shipwrecks, natural
                Thunder Bay is the gateway to                                                      (SUP) has quickly become a
                                                         wonders and northern marine life
                bucket list paddling destinations                                                  favourite pastime in Thunder
                                                         while you dip beneath the surface
                such as Quetico, Wabakimi,                                                         Bay for residents and visitors
                                                         of the largest of the Great Lakes.
                Sleeping Giant Provincial Park,                                                    alike. Local companies
                Pukaskwa National Park and the           Equipment outfitting, lessons and         NatriBros and Superior
                Lake Superior National Marine            guiding services are available            Stand Up Paddleboarding
                Conservation Area. If you’re new         from Thunder Country Diving               offer lessons and equipment
                to paddling or to paddling Lake          in Thunder Bay and By the Bay             rentals. Favourite spots include
                Superior, consider heading out           Adventures in Nipigon.                    Boulevard Lake, Hazelwood
                with local adventure company                                                       Lake and the marina harbour.
                S.A.N.D – Such a Nice Day
                Adventures.

                PADDLE BACK IN TIME
                In a region largely discovered via
                canoe, you can paddle the same
                routes as historic voyageurs and
                fur traders. Visit Fort William
                Historical Park to learn more
                about this incredible history and
                to see (and paddle) authentic
                birch bark canoes.

                URBAN PADDLING
                Urban paddling opportunities can

                                                                                                                                                 © David Jackson
                also be found throughout the city.
                On any summer day you are sure
                to see kayaks and stand up paddle
                boards in Boulevard Lake and in
                the harbour. Kayaking on local               FISHING                               line; guides and outfitters are
                                                                                                   available. For those seeking the
                rivers is also a popular activity. Try                                             ultimate Northern experience,
                the McIntyre or the Kaministiquia            The area around Thunder Bay has       get on a float plane and venture
                (the Mac or the Kam) rivers.                 been a top destination for anglers    deeper into the wilderness
                                                             for well over 100 years. Year-        with a fly-in adventure with
                                                             round, you can create a customized    Wabakimi Wilderness
                                                             trip that combines excitement         Outfitters or Wilderness North;
                                                             and relaxation. Try urban fishing     there are numerous lodges,
                                                             in the city’s many waterways or       cabins and resorts that you can
                                                             take a guided fishing trip on Lake    use as your basecamp.
                                                             Superior with Archie's Fishing
© Goh Iromoto

                                                             Charters and Lighthouse Tours         Be sure to check out the
                                                             or Superior Fishing Charters.         Ontario Fishing Regulations
                                                             Just outside the city you will find   and Licensing Requirements
                                                             thousands of inland lakes ready       at www.ontario.ca/fishing
                                                             and waiting for you to cast a         before you go.

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© Goh Iromoto
    on the water

                                                                                                                SURFING
                                                                                                                While Northern Ontario might not
                                                                                                                be the first place that comes to
                                                                                                                mind when thinking of surf spots,
                                                                                                                Lake Superior is well known
                                                                                                                amongst North America’s surfing
                                                                                                                enthusiasts. The waves are their

                                                                                © Goh Iromoto
                                                                                                                highest in the fall and winter, so
                                                                                                                beware; the water is very cold and
                                                                                                                proper equipment is absolutely
                                                                                                                necessary. Local surfers know all
                                                                                                                the hot spots and NatriBros has
                                                                                                                instructors and rental equipment
                                                                                                                available. Check out the annual
                                                                                                                surfing festival in nearby Terrace
                                                                                                                Bay, ON – Waasaashkaa happens
                                                                                                                each October.

    ROWING                                    SAILING                                                           SWIMMING
    Located on the scenic banks of the        The best way to experience the Big                                In the summer months, the City of
    Kaministiquia River, the Thunder          Lake is in a sailboat! Sail Superior                              Thunder Bay operates a number of
    Bay Rowing Club hosts recreational        offers a wide variety of tour options                             outdoor pools, supervised beaches
    rowing and regattas throughout            including harbour tours and Wine                                  and splash pads to cool off in.
    the season. With well over 10 km of       and Cheese tours. If you’re looking
    rowable waterways, Thunder Bay            to learn how to captain your own                                  There are also numerous public
    waters provide a variety of routes for    vessel, Sail Thunder Bay Sailing                                  beaches nearby including Wild
    local rowers. In addition to NWIRA        School and the Thunder Bay Yacht                                  Goose Beach (in Shuniah) near the
    championships, local rowers have          Club both offer lessons. Wednesday                                north end of the city and Sandy
    competed and medalled nationally,         evenings make your way to Prince                                  Beach (Chippewa Park) near the
    internationally, at the Olympics and      Arthur’s Landing to watch the races.                              south end.
    at the Paralympics. Twenty local          If you’re so inclined, you can wait at
    rowers have been inducted into the        the “Crew Bench” and join a crew.                                 Visit www.thunderbay.ca/
    Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall                                                                            swimming to see your options.
    of Fame.
                                                                                                                                                     © Amanda Phillips

8
    THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                   2022
onon
                                                                                                              thethe
                                                                                                                   water
                                                                                                                     water
© DZ Photography

                                                                                                                                                     © Chad Kirvan
                   WATERFRONT
                   Prince Arthur’s Landing at the Thunder Bay Waterfront is an area filled with year-round
                   excitement and fun. Steps away from the shore you will find the Waterfront District which is
                   home to dozens of shops, restaurants, bars and more.

                   SUMMER FUN                              ALEXANDER HENRY                         WINTER EXCITEMENT
                   In the summer months, boats fill        MUSEUM SHIP                             In the winter, the splash pad
                   the harbour, ocean-bound ships          The Alexander Henry was                 becomes an ice rink with a
                   come and go, and the smells             built in 1958 at the Port Arthur        fireplace in the centre and
                   and sounds of many festivals and        Shipbuilding Company. It was            Winter Fundays takes over. Try
                   events fill the air. Families enjoy     named after British-Canadian            snowshoeing, dog sledding, fat
                   the splash pad and diners enjoy the     Alexander Henry, an explorer            biking and more – all for free!
                   restaurants and outdoor patios.         and pioneer and partner in the
                                                           fur-trade’s North West Company.         PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR
                   Live on the Waterfront is a free        The ship contains nearly a              Grab a map and wander the path
                   concert series that is over 100 years   dozen museum rooms where                admiring the many pieces of
                   old where Thunder Bay entertains        visitors can rediscover the area’s      public art on display at
                   the crowd and shares the stage with     transportation history aboard an        Prince Arthur’s Landing.
                   award-winning touring acts.             integral part of it. The Alexander      More information available at
                   Experience the Big Lake and             Henry Museum Ship is located at         thunderbay.ca/publicart
                   see the city from a whole new           the Pool 6 dock.
                   perspective on a Lake Superior                                               FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
                   Boat Tour with Sail Superior.
                                                                                                VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/ WATERFRONT

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on the water

      PA DDLE
      THE      TOP
      OF LAKE SUPERIOR!
      Indigenous people have been paddling this region for thousands of years, and there’s a reason that Kitchi-gami
      continues to inspire. Connect with spectacular vistas, unique paddling experiences, and beautiful blue waters.
      Start planning your #TopOfLakeSuperior adventure today!

     ABOUT THE MARINE CONSERVATION AREA
     Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, once
     established, will be part of a nationwide system of protected
     areas managed by Parks Canada. It will be approximately 10,880
     square kilometres in size, occupying almost 13% of the largest
     freshwater lake in the world by surface area.

                                                           SAFETY FIRST
                                         © Parks Canada

                                                           Lake Superior is a deep, cold and open lake. Conditions can change quickly on Lake
                                                           Superior without a moment’s notice, so be prepared. Observe and listen to the lake
                                                           before getting on the water and always stay in tune with the weather. Be mindful of your
                                                           abilities before beginning any paddling or boating excursion. There’s plenty to do on
                                                           shore if the wind picks up!

     GET OUT THERE!
                                                                                                   SHARE THE CHAIR
     There are plenty of reasons to
     experience Lake Superior NMCA, and                                                            Parks Canada wants to share Canada’s most
     lots of ways to get there. You can start                                                      incredible places with you! You’ll find Red Chairs
     your paddling adventure from many                                                             located across Lake Superior NMCA guiding you to
                                                                                                   stunning places this area has to offer. Find them all
                                                           © Parks Canada

     north shore communities such as
     Silver Islet, Hurkett Cove, Red Rock,                                                         on our website and don’t forget to #ShareTheChair
     Nipigon, Rossport, Schreiber and                                                              with us on social media!
     Terrace Bay.

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     THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                               2022
on the water
                                                                                                                       on the water
                                                                                              PADDLE THE ROSSPORT ISLANDS

                                                                             © Parks Canada
                                                                                              Rossport is a paddler’s paradise. Scattered islands, sheltered coves and
                                                                                              wildlife sightings make this a great place for your next paddle. Enjoy a
                                                                                              short paddle to Quarry Island and hike to the top for some terrific views.

                  A RUGGED                                             STAY A WHILE AT PORPHYRY
                  SHORELINE                                            ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE
                  A wild beauty is waiting to be                       Visit one of Lake Superior’s best-kept secrets.
                  discovered. These columnar                           Explore authentic lighthouse buildings and let new
                  basalts formed 1.1 billion                           interpretive panels paint a narrative from the past.
                  years ago when conditions                            For a truly unique experience, stay the night under
                  allowed lava to harden into                          a starry sky. Visit clls.ca for more information.
                  many hexagon-shaped pillars.

                                                                                                                                                                               © Parks Canada
                                                   © Parks Canada

                                                                       LACE UP THOSE HIKING BOOTS
                                                                       Prefer to stay on shore? No problem! Discover Lake Superior NMCA’s scenic coastline;
                 CHARTERS AND                                          hike the Casque Isles Trail – a 53 km route with 11 points of access that passes through
                 OUTFITTERS                                            the communities of Rossport, Schreiber and Terrace Bay. Test yourself with a multi-day
                                                                       journey or spend an afternoon hiking to one of many beautiful lookout points. For more
                 Being on the water is one of                          information, check out the Casque Isles Trail Facebook page: @CasqueIsles.
                 the best ways to explore Lake
                 Superior NMCA. Whether you’re
                 looking to canoe, kayak, sail,
                 fish or find a guided trip, there’s
                 a local outfitter that’s ready to
                 make your plan a reality.
© Parks Canada

                                                                    QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION
                                                                    Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area                        Connect with us on Social Media!
                                                                    22 Third Street, P.O Box 998, Nipigon, ON P0T 2J0                        LakeSuperiorNMCA
                                                                    Tel: (807) 887-5467 | Email: superior-superieur@pc.gc.ca                 @LkSuperiorNMCA
                                                                    Website: pc.gc.ca/superior

                                                                                                                                                                                                11
                                                                                                                                                 v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
on the water

                                                                                               © Chad Kirvan
      EXPLORE THE
      LAKEHEAD
      WATERSHED
      The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority
                                                                                                               CEDAR
                                                                                                               FALLS:Cedar Falls
      offers a variety of amazing recreational and                                                             is a great spot for a short

      educational opportunities at its Conservation                                                            hike to a picturesque
                                                                                                               cascading waterfall.
      Areas, including access to Lake Superior and                                                             OPEN SEASONALLY

      some exciting events throughout the year!

                                                                SILVER HARBOUR:                                  Silver Harbour
                                                                provides a boat launch with access to Lake Superior and
                                                                offers great ice fishing opportunities. Be sure to come out in
                                                                August for Silver Harbour Day! OPEN SEASONALLY

                                                                                           HURKETT
                                                                                           COVE:
                                                                                           This is one of the best birding
                                                                                           spots in Northwestern Ontario!
                                                                                           Located on Lake Superior,
                                                                                           Hurkett Cove is also home to
       MISSION                                                                             Dorion’s Canyon Country Birding
       ISLAND                                                                              Festival each May!
                                                                                           OPEN SEASONALLY
       MARSH:
       2.4 km of trails, 16.7 hectares of
       land and an incredible birding
       spot in the fall. Mission Island
       Marsh features four distinct
                                             LITTLE TROUT
       ecosystems and is home to the         BAY: Another boat launch provides
       LRCA’s annual Fall Waterfowl          access to Lake Superior. Little Trout Bay
       Viewing Day!                          also features some great geocaching!
       OPEN YEAR-ROUND                       OPEN SEASONALLY

12
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                2022
PURCHASE AN
                                                              EXPLORE CARD
                                                              PARKING PASS TODAY!
                                                              Display your Explore Card Parking
                                                              Pass at Conservation Areas
                                                              (and publicly accessible Forest
                                                              Management Properties) and forgo
                                                              the daily parking fee! Visit as often
                                                              as you like. Enjoy a full year of
                                                              recreation activities, such as
                                                              boating, fishing, hiking and more
                                                              at our seasonal and year-round
HAZELWOOD LAKE: 7.0 km of                                     Conservation Areas.
trails on over 618 hectares of land, this pristine inland
lake provides great paddling opportunities and is a great     It’s convenient for frequent
spot to go geocaching! Visit Hazelwood in both March          users, and a great gift idea!
and July for the Hazelwood Lake Family Fun Days!              You may purchase your Explore
OPEN YEAR-ROUND                                               Card Parking Pass through the
                                                              LRCA Administrative Office or
                                                              online at www.lakeheadca.com.

                              MACKENZIE
                              POINT:                          DID YOU KNOW?                    Conservation Areas without
                              This granite outcrop into       Conservation Areas in            the support of Federal or
                              Lake Superior is a superb       the Lakehead Region              Provincial funding.
                              location for capturing          are privately owned by
                                                                                               Your purchase of an
                              sunrise photos. It’s also a     the Lakehead Region
                                                                                               Explore Card Parking Pass
                              great sunbathing spot.          Conservation Authority
                                                                                               or payment of the parking
                              OPEN SEASONALLY                 (LRCA). They are not City
                                                                                               fee supports development,
                                                              Parks or Crown Land.
                                                                                               maintenance and
                                                              The LRCA pays property           improvements to the
                                                              taxes on all land owned          LRCA’s existing trail
CASCADES: 5.5 km of trails,                                   by the Authority, including      networks, as well
162 hectares of land and one of the most popular dog          Conservation Areas.              as general
walking spots in Thunder Bay. The Cascades are a                                               Conservation
great place to visit on a hot summer’s day. Be sure           The LRCA maintains the
                                                                                               Area
to check out the Trails & Tails Dog Adoption Fair in          trails, parking areas,
                                                                                               maintenance
September! OPEN YEAR-ROUND                                    boat launches and other
                                                                                               and upkeep.
                                                              facilities located within our

                                                            FOR MORE INFORMATION:

                                                              LRCA OFFICE                     info@lakeheadca.com
                                                                                              807-344-5857
                                                              130 Conservation Road
                                                              Thunder Bay, ON                 lakeheadca.com

                                                                                                                                          13
                                                                                                   v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
feature

                             FEELING
        SUPERIOR on the Shores of the Greatest Lake

                                    By Michelle McChristie

          One might think that living on the world’s largest freshwater lake
           might give a community a feeling of superiority, but this is not
           the case in Thunder Bay. We know the lake is awesome, but you
          won’t hear a lot of people bragging about it. In fact, more people
           have cottages—which we affectionately refer to as camps—on
         smaller lakes where the water is a little calmer and a tad warmer.
         Truth be told, there are a lot of smaller lakes in the area that are a
               pretty enticing escape, but nothing compares to the beauty
                            and splendour of Lake Superior.

14
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE     2022
It goes without saying that everyone     the beauty of this magnificent lake,
in Thunder Bay knows that nothing        that is, to really feel superior, you
compares to Lake Superior and, over      need to immerse yourself.
the past few decades, locals have
reconnected with the lake thanks to a    Here are a few suggestions for day
rejuvenated waterfront and downtown      trips to experience the greatest lake.
core. The lake has never been so         If you don’t have your own gear,
accessible—it’s a trend the city         boards, paddles, and safety gear,
plans to continue with an expanded       rentals are available at local outdoor
waterfront area that will include an     shops and there are pros that offer
art gallery and other attractions.       lessons for newbies. Always check
                                         local weather conditions and be
Because the city was built along the     aware that they can change quickly.
shoreline, you are never more than
15 minutes from the lake. Within and
beyond city limits there are countless
opportunities to explore natural
areas and drink in panoramic views
of Superior. But, to truly experience
                                                                                                                  © Alan Poelman

                                                                                                                                   15
                                                                                  v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
© Amanda Phillips
                                         © Goh Iromoto

                                                                                          © Goh Iromoto
     STURGEON                                             LITTLE                                          SANDY
     BAY                                                  TROUT BAY                                       BEACH          Kayaking,
     Canoeing, Kayaking, and                              Canoeing, Kayaking,                             Kite Surfing, Standup
     Fishing                                              and Fishing                                     Paddleboarding, and
     Sturgeon Bay is a picturesque                        Little Trout Bay is popular with                Swimming
     and sheltered bay located about                      anglers as the crystal clear                    Sandy Beach is a gem located within
     35 minutes from the city via                         water provides excellent fishing                the city of Thunder Bay, though it
     Highway 61 and Sturgeon Bay                          for salmon, pickerel, whitefish,                feels somewhat remote because it
     Road. Despite being close to                         rainbow trout, and lake trout.                  is located across the Kaministiquia
     the city, most of the shoreline                      The bay is surrounded by dense                  River next to Fort William First
     is undeveloped. The bay is                           stands of boreal forest with cliffs,            Nation. It’s the kind of hidden gem
     surrounded by wetlands and                           stretches of open bedrock and                   that only locals frequent. The beach
     towering cliffs and opens to                         cobble beaches. The boat launch                 has lifeguard supervision in the
     a narrow channel that leads                          is located at Little Trout Bay                  summer and a year-round view of
     to Mink Bay to the south and                         Conservation Area.                              the Sleeping Giant.
     Flatland Island to the north.
                                                          Distance from city: 44 kilometres               Distance from city: 13 kilometres
     Distance from city:
     42 kilometres*                                       Amenities: boat launch, picnic                  Amenities: Chippewa Park has
                                                          shelter, hiking trail, outdoor privy            a campground, cabin rentals,
     Amenities: boat launch, ample                                                                        playground, sports fields,
     parking                                              Destination: McKellar Point, a
                                                                                                          amusement rides, and a cafe that
                                                          densely forested peninsula that
                                                                                                          sells summer favourites, like hot
     Destination: Sturgeon Island, a                      shelters the bay from the big lake
                                                                                                          dogs and ice cream.
     small island at the southern end
     of the bay                                           Round trip length:
                                                                                                          Destination: Head north and
                                                          14.7 kilometres, following the
                                                                                                          explore the shoreline around
     Round trip length:                                   shoreline to the tip of the point
                                                                                                          Chippewa Park—where else
     7.2 kilometres, following the
                                                           DON’T MISS: A side trip to the                 can you pull your boat or board
     shoreline
                                                          Thunder Oak Cheese Farm on                      onshore for some French fries
      DON’T MISS: The Mink                                your way out of town—they make                  and a round of bumper cars? Or,
     Mountain trail off Island Drive                      award-winning gouda cheese and                  head south and paddle along the
     which leads to a spectacular                         sell a variety of local fare.                   shoreline to Brûlé Bay.
     lookout. If you want to linger in
                                                                                                          Round trip length: 3 kilometres
     the area a little longer, Mink
                                                                                                          to Chippewa Park; 7.6 kilometres
     Mountain Resort offers cottage
                                                                                                          to Brûlé Bay
     and lodge rentals.
                                                                                                           DON’T MISS: Chippewa Park’s
                                                                                                          artfully restored carousel—one of
                                                                                                          the oldest in Canada.

16
     THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                              2022
© Darrel Wright*
                               © Alan Poelman

                                                                                   © Goh Iromoto
KAMIN-                                          LAKE                                               WILD GOOSE
ISTIQUIA                                        SUPERIOR                                           BEACH
RIVER                                           by Sailboat, Zodiac, or                            Canoeing, Kayaking,
Canoeing, Kayaking,                             Catamaran                                          Standup Paddleboarding,
Fishing, and Standup                            On any given day during the                        and Swimming
Paddleboarding                                  summer, Thunder Bay’s harbour                      Wild Goose beach is a hotspot for
                                                is buzzing with a mix of vessels,                  locals in the summer given its
I know what you’re thinking:                    including kayaks, fishing boats,                   close proximity to the city, sandy
“This river is not part of Lake                 sailboats, and freighters (a.k.a.                  beach and warm shallow water.
Superior!” True, but it is one of               salties). If you feel like you need                Although there is no boat launch,
its largest tributaries and is a                a rest day, consider a day trip                    it’s a short walk from the parking
beautiful meandering river. We                  with Sail Superior.                                lot to the beach where it’s easy to
suggest starting your day trip at
                                                                                                   launch a canoe or kayak.
Fort William Historical Park—a                  Distance from the city: N/A
reconstruction of the North West                                                                   Distance from the city:
Company’s fur trading post as it                Amenities: Prince Arthur’s
                                                                                                   28 kilometres
existed in the early 1800s.                     Landing has a hotel, multiple
                                                restaurants, a boat launch, picnic                 Amenities: Parking lot, picnic
Distance from the city:                         area, playground, splash pad, and                  area
7 kilometres                                    skateboard park
                                                                                                   Round trip length: N/A
Amenities: Fort William                         Destination: Sail Superior
Historical Park has a boat                      offers day trips to a variety of                    DON’T MISS: Wild Goose is only
launch for small watercraft,                    destinations.                                      about 10 kilometres away from
campground, observatory, cafe,                                                                     the Terry Fox Monument and
and gift shop.                                  Round trip length: Various                         Lookout which are an awe-
                                                 DON’T MISS: The tastefully                        inspiring tribute to one of the
Destination: Mountdale Avenue                                                                      greatest Canadians.
boat launch (east/downstream of                 curated picnic boxes at Picnicki,
the park)                                       located near the splash pad.

Round trip length: 17.4 kilometres

 DON’T MISS: The birds along
the river—watch for osprey, bald
eagles, great blue heron, and a
variety of ducks—and the view of
Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay).
                                                                                                    *all distances are from the
                                                                                                    Thunder Bay International
                                                                                                    Airport Authority

                                                                                                                                                               17
                                                                                                               v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
feature

     GOT GEAR
     (OR NOT)?

                                                                © Scott MacKay

                                                                                                                  © Daniel Griffin
     IF YOU’RE TRAVELLING

     LIGHT, HERE ARE A FEW

     PLACES THAT OFFER

     RENTALS:
                               SILVER                                            FISHING
                               HARBOUR                                           ON LAKE
     Canoe, Kayak and          Canoeing, Kayaking,                               SUPERIOR
     SUP Rentals               Fishing, Standup                                  (Silver Islet)
     Wilderness Supply         Paddleboarding, Scuba
                                                                                 It’s been said that a bad day of
     244 Pearl Street          Diving, and Swimming                              fishing is better than a good day
     (807) 684-9555
                               Silver Harbour is located east of                 at the office. Archie Hoogsteen
                               the city in Shuniah. The small                    has over 25 years of experience
     Kayak and SUP                                                               reeling in salmon, rainbow, and
                               beach that is nestled among cliffs
     Rentals                                                                     lake trout on Lake Superior and
                               are synonymous with the north
     Chaltrek                  shore. As its name suggests,                      has taken clients from around
     404 Balmoral Street       Silver Harbour was one of the                     the world out on the lake.
     (807) 577-8848            many sites in the area that was
                                                                                 Distance from the city:
                               explored for silver during the
                                                                                 88 kilometres
     SUP Rentals               1800s. The boat launch is located
     NatriBros Surf + SUP      at the Silver Harbour Conservation                Amenities: Archie’s Fishing
     natribros.com             Area. For scuba divers, check out                 Charters & Lighthouse Tours
                               the Gordon Gauthier which lays in                 operates out of the Silver Islet
                               about 4.6 metres (15 feet) of water               General Store, which has a
                               at Mary Island.                                   cafe and is located about five
                                                                                 kilometres from Sleeping Giant
                               Distance from the city:
                                                                                 Provincial Park.
                               35 kilometres
                                                                                 Destination: Archie’s offers a
                               Amenities: boat launch, picnic
                                                                                 variety of day trips
                               shelter, hiking trail, outdoor privy
                                                                                 Round trip length: Various
                               Destination: Just off shore is
                               Mary Island which makes for a                      DON’T MISS: The general
                               nice paddle; the shipwreck is an                  store’s cinnamon buns and
                               accessible novice-level dive.                     Sleeping Giant Provincial Park’s
                                                                                 excellent exhibit about the Silver
                               Round trip length: 7.8 kilometres
                                                                                 Islet Mine, which is known as the
                                DON’T MISS: The Fish Shop, a                     world’s richest silver mine.
                               little further east on Lakeshore
                               Drive, which sells Finnish-style                  *all distances are from the
                               smoked local fish, Finnish foods,                 Thunder Bay International
                               local amethyst, and more.                         Airport Authority

18
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE   2022
feature

              k e i o r
           L uper
            a
                                   S
                                                          2
     The Anishinaabeg referred to Lake

1    Superior as Anishinaabewi-gichigami
     (Anishinaabe’s Sea)
                                                                      Lake Superior holds 10% of the

3
                                                                      world’s surface fresh water

                        4
     Lake Superior          More than 80 species

                                                         5
     has a surface          of fish have been found
     area of 82,103         in Lake Superior                       The cliffs on the the Sleeping Giant
     square                                                        on the north shore of Lake Superior
     kilometres                                                    are the highest in Ontario
     (31,700

                                                                                  8
     square miles),

                                      7
     approximately                         Silver Islet—an island near the                When European explorers visited
     the size of                           Sibley Peninsula—was the site of               Lake Superior in the 1600s they
     South Carolina                        the world’s richest silver mine in             reported giant sturgeon three
     or Austria                            the 1800s                                      metres (nine feet) in length and
                                                                                          giant pike of over two metres

6
                                                                                          (seven feet) in length
       Lake Superior
       receives
       water from
                              9     Lake Superior
                                    contains nearly
                                    70 million diporeia       10
       approximately                (shrimplike creatures)     The average
       200 rivers, of               with a total biomass       water
       which the largest
       is the Nipigon
                                    greater than that of
                                    the human population
                                    in the entire Lake
                                                               temperature
                                                               is 4.4°C
                                                               (40°F)
                                                                                  11       Waves with a height of
                                                                                           over 9 metres (30 feet)
                                                                                           have been recorded on
                                    Superior basin                                         Lake Superior

                                                                                                 15
                      12
                                   Some of the world’s oldest rocks, about
                                   2.7 billion years old, can be found on the                    The deepest point of
                                   Ontario shore of Lake Superior                                Lake Superior is 406
                                                                                                 metres (1,332 feet),
                                                                                                 equivalent to the

13
     Lake Superior flows into                If Lake Superior were to be                         height of the Lotte
     Lake Huron at its eastern
     end via the St. Marys River
                                      14     drained at its current rate of
                                             outflow, it would take 191 years
                                                                                                 World Tower in Seoul –
                                                                                                 123 storeys

                                                                                                                                     19
                                                                                              v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
parks + leisure

                                                                                                                                             © Patrick Chondon
      PARKS & LEISURE
      Thunder Bay is home to over 100 parks and
      recreation areas for visitors to enjoy. See the
      list below to learn more about some of the
      most popular parks in the city.

      MARINA PARK/PRINCE ARTHUR’S LANDING
      Located in Thunder Bay’s waterfront area, visitors will enjoy
      spectacular lake views, walking paths, scenic lookouts,

                                                                                                                                           © Amanda Phillips
      picnic areas and more.
      Prince Arthur’s Landing is a multi-use village, home to a
      lake-view restaurant, a children’s playground, a skatepark,
      and a splash pad that transforms into a skating rink in the
      winter months.
      Red River Road at Water Street
      Marina open May to October – (807) 345-2741
      Off-season: City's Parks & Open Spaces: (807) 625-2941
                                                                      CENTENNIAL BOTANICAL CONSERVATORY
      SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL                                       The City of Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory
      FRIENDSHIP GARDENS                                              is accessible to all and is a great place to visit year-round. The
      Discover the multicultural heritage of Thunder Bay              Conservatory was opened in 1967 by the Fort William Parks
      with a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the                 Board as a Centennial project, and it is a legacy to the citizens
      international monuments.                                        of Thunder Bay.
      Victoria Avenue at Legion Track Drive                           Dease Street off Balmoral Street

20
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                    2022
parks + leisure

VICKERS PARK
In 1902, Catherine Mary Vickers
made a ten acre donation to the town
of Fort William on the premise that               FIND THEM ALL!
                                                                                    PROUD TO BE
the "Public Park" or "Garden" be             THUNDERBAY.CA /PARK S                  A PET-FRIENDLY
for the "free use and enjoyment" of
the inhabitants of the town of Fort
                                                   807- 625 -2351                   CITY!
William. This traditional park offers                                               The City of Thunder Bay maintains
trees, benches & play equipment.                                                                                parks
                                                                                    three dog parks and one off-leash
Arthur Street between South Selkirk                                                 area for our canine residents,
Street and South Brunswick Street                                                   visitors and their owners to enjoy
                                          LORNE ALLARD                              year-round:
BOULEVARD LAKE PARK                       FISHERMAN’S PARK                          Hillyard Lands Dog Park
The park area around Boulevard Lake       Found at the mouth of theCurrent
                                                                                    North of Central Avenue between
offers recreation opportunities for       River, featuring accessible paved
                                          trails, picnic shelters and a gorgeous    Memorial and 8th Avenue (Turn
all – walk or cycle on 7 km of paved                                                north off Central Avenue at
trails, swim and play at the beach        view, it is the most Westerly access
                                          point on the Lake Superior Water Trail.   Carrick Street)
area, play a round of mini golf or disc
golf, or rent a paddleboard or kayak      Shipyard Road                             Beverly Street Dog Park
and get on the water.                                                               South of Port Arthur Stadium on
Access from Lyon Blvd, Current Ave                                                  the corner of Beverly Street and
and Lyon Blvd West                        CENTENNIAL PARK                           Winnipeg Avenue
                                          Hike, bike (MTB or fat tire), snowshoe
                                          or ski your way through this              Neebing Playfield Dog Park
HILLCREST PARK                            wonderful wilderness area, or step        On the corner of Neebing Avenue
One of the best spots to view the         back in time at the 1910 replica          and Mary Street West
Sleeping Giant, this park on the hill     logging camp.
overlooks the waterfront and the                                                    Centennial Park Leash-Free Area
harbour.                                  Centennial Park Drive (off Arundel
                                                                                    Centennial Park, off Arundel Street
                                          Street)
High Street between Red River Road
and Oliver Road
                                          TROWBRIDGE FALLS PARK                     For Off-Leash
                                          & CAMPGROUND                              rules & regulations
WAVERLEY PARK                             Located along the cascading Current       and directions to
The 2nd oldest municipal park in          River, this beautiful park features       these parks – go to
Ontario boasts giant cottonwood           great trails and a bike skills park, as
trees, a fountain and a cenotaph.
                                                                                    visitthunderbay.com
                                          well as a full-service campground
It is also home to a newly renovated                                                And... find more information on
                                          and RV park.
lookout and historical installation.                                                Pet Friendly Services including
                                          Copenhagen Road off Highway 11/17         more Kennels, Veterinarian
Red River Road near the top of            (807) 683-6661                            Services and Pet-Friendly
Waverley Street
                                                                                    Hotels/Motels!
KAMINISTIQUIA RIVER                       CHIPPEWA PARK
HERITAGE PARK                             A lakeside recreational park, with
Discover a beautiful scene along the      great views of the Sleeping Giant,
                                                                                               © Barry Smith

Kaministiquia River with a walkway,       features camping, beaches, a newly
the historic Whalen Tug Boat and the      restored carousel, amusement rides,
VIA train display.                        picnic and playground areas.

Syndicate Avenue at CP Rail Station       City Road (807) 623-3912
near Donald and Simpson Streets

                                                                                                                                     21
                                                                                              v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
parks + leisure

      Step back into 1816, feast, stargaze, camp, ride a historic
      wooden carousel, celebrate! Don’t miss the adventure that
      awaits at two of our standout attractions.

                                                                © Rusty Anchor Productions

      FORT WILLIAM                                                                           CHIPPEWA PARK
      HISTORICAL PARK                                                                        Enjoy a nostalgic day of old-fashioned fun at one
      Over 250 acres of breathtaking                                                         of Thunder Bay’s most treasured landmarks.
      northern scenery is home to our                                                        Chippewa Park has preserved its 1920s
      award-winning living history program,                                                  charm, while updating with added features
      events and concerts, RV camping and outdoor activities,                                like overnight camping, a modern RV park and
      business conferences, and more. Discover the secrets                                   wheelchair accessible log cabins on the water.
      of the universe when you visit our state-of-the-art
                                                                                             The park features a newly restored 115-year-old
      astronomy centre!
                                                                                             carousel and two beaches on Lake Superior.
      Visit our website for festival and
                                                                                             Situated only 10 minutes
      event information. We’re open year-round!                                              from the city, off Highway 61 South
                                                                                             or James Street
      On King Road – off
                                                                                             Hotline: (807) 625-CHIP
      Broadway Avenue
                                                                                             Toll Free: 1-888-711-5094
      (Highway 61 South)
                                                                                             thunderbay.ca/chippewapark
      (807) 473-2344
      Hotline: (807) 473-2333                                                                FRIENDS OF
      fwhp.ca                                                                                CHIPPEWA PARK
                                                                                             chippewapark.ca

22
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                  2022
parks + leisure

                                                                                                       © Epica Pictures
                  BEACHES, POOLS                                                                                      BOULEVA R D

                  & SPLASH PADS
                                                                                                                      L A KE
                                                                                                                      400 Lyon Blvd W

                                                                                                                      Boulevard Lake is
                  Cool off during the summer in one of many                                                           surrounded by 650 acres
© Scott MacKay

                  great watering holes throughout the city.                                                           of parkland, from the
                                                                                                                      scenic bluffs north of
                                                                                                                      the lake to the dam on
                                                                                                                      the lower Current River.
                 BEACHES                   INDOOR                      OUTDOOR                                        The Black Bay Bridge

                 LAKEVIEW BEACH            POOLS                       POOLS                                          (1911) at the lake's outlet
                 Boulevard Lake                                                                                       at Cumberland Street
                 400 Lyon Boulevard West   CANADA GAMES                ART WIDNALL POOL                               North is a reinforced
                                           COMPLEX                     820 Minnesota Street                           concrete span bridge,
                 SANDY BEACH &             420 Winnipeg Avenue         (807) 623-1480
                                                                                                                      the first of its type in
                 MAIN BEACH                (807) 684-3311
                                                                       HEATH PARK POOL                                North America.
                 Chippewa Park
                                           CHURCHILL                   1251 Heath Street
                 thunderbay.ca/parks       COMMUNITY POOL              (807) 475-0522                                 Park features:
                                           130 Churchill Drive West                                                   18-hole disc golf course
                 KAKABEKA BEACH            (807) 577-2538                                                             Beaches*
                 Kakabeka Falls            VOLUNTEER POOL
                                                                       SPLASH                                         Concession area*
                 Provincial Park           180 Martha Street                                                          Mini-putt*
                                                                       SPLASH PADS
                                           (807) 345-5143              Marina Park, North End                         Paddleboat and canoe
                 MARIE LOUISE
                 LAKE BEACH                                            Park, Franklin Street, County                    rental*
                                           LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY
                 Sleeping Giant                                        Park and Northwood (under                      Playground equipment
                                           POOL
                 Provincial Park                                       construction)                                  Recreational trails
                                           955 Oliver Road
                                           (807) 343-8656              thunderbay.ca/parks                            Six picnic areas (picnic
                 ontarioparks.com
                                                                                                                        tables out seasonally)
                                                                                                                        - available for rent
                                           FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: THUNDERBAY.CA /SWIMMING                       Washrooms and change
                                                                                                                        facility*
                                                                                                                      * seasonal

                                                                                                                                                                 23
                                                                                                                          v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
parks + leisure

                              ONTARIO PARKS
     Photos © Ontario Parks

                                                                                              SLEEPING GIANT PROVINCIAL PARK
                                                                                              On the tip of the rugged Sibley Peninsula lays the legendary
                                                                                              Sleeping Giant. As seen from the City of Thunder Bay, this rock
                                                                                              formation is a local icon. The park’s Marie Louise Lake Campground
                                                                                              offers RV and tent camping, as well family cabin rentals available
                                                                                              year-round, providing a great base to explore the park’s 100+ km
                                                                                              trail network. 1.25 hours*

                              KAKABEKA FALLS
                              PROVINCIAL PARK                                           PIGEON RIVER
                              Kakabeka Falls, at 40 m,                                  PROVINCIAL PARK
                              is considered the second                                  This day-use-only park offers a
                              highest vertical waterfall                                network of hiking trails to explore
                              in Ontario. The park                                      featuring scenic waterfalls and vistas
                              campground is popular with                                overlooking the park, Lake Superior
                                                                                                                                   OUIMET CANYON
                              both locals and highway                                   and the Canada-U.S.A. border.
                                                                                                                                   PROVINCIAL PARK
                              travellers. 25 minutes*                                   45 minutes*
                                                                                                                                   The highlight of this day-use-only
                                                                                                                                   park is the 3 km long, 152 m
                                                                   WABAKIMI PROVINCIAL PARK                                        wide and 107 m deep canyon,
                                                                   Wabakimi is pure northern grandeur – home to woodland           as seen from one of its two
                                                                   caribou and backcountry canoe tripping adventures. Visit        viewing pods. This geologic
                                                                   Wabakimi to explore the tradition, challenge and rewards        phenomenon is one of the most
                                                                   of paddling and fishing in a remote location; ideal for         spectacular landscapes found
                                                                   longer trips of five days or more. 2.5 hours*                   in Eastern Canada. 1 hour*

                                                                                        RAINBOW FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK
                                                                                        Rainbow Falls offers two campgrounds to
                                                                                        choose from: Whitesand Lake with warmer
                                                                                        inland waters and Rossport, located on the
                                                                                        shore of Lake Superior. Enjoy hiking park trails
                                                                                        and view the cascading waters as they plunge
                              QUETICO PROVINCIAL PARK                                   over the rock ledges of Rainbow Falls on their way
                              Known for its rugged beauty, Quetico is an                to Lake Superior. 2.25 hours*
                              internationally acclaimed wilderness destination
                              for paddlers offering many routes to choose from.
                                                                                                                 NEYS PROVINCIAL PARK
                              Backcountry canoeists can explore the park’s pristine
                                                                                                                 With its campground located on the shore of
                              lakes and rivers. RV and car campers can enjoy the
                                                                                                                 Lake Superior, this history rich park has lots to
                              amenities found at the Dawson Trail Campground
                                                                                                                 offer. Enjoy walks on the long beach, learn about
                              on the park’s north side along Highway 11, near
                                                                                                                 the WWII POW Camp or hike to views of Pic Island
                              the town of Atikokan. Quetico’s campground also
                                                                                                                 immortalized on canvas by Lawren Harris of the
                              features rustic cabin rentals available year-round.
                                                                                                                 famous Canadian Group of Seven. 3.25 hours*
                              1.5 hours*

                              Looking for a cabin adventure this season?              For online park          For camping               For park information,
                              Sleeping Giant and Quetico Provincial Parks             reservations and         reservations,             call 1-800-ONTARIO
                              have cabin rentals year-round. Neys’ Trapp              information, visit       call 1-888-ONT-Park
                                                                                                               (1-888-668-7275)                  OntarioParksNorthwest
                              Cabin rental is available from May to Sept.             OntarioParks.com
                                                                                                                                               @OntarioParksNWZ
                                                                                                                                             *distance from Thunder Bay

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                               THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                      2022
parks + leisure

NATIONAL PARKS                                                                                          MDAABII MIIKNA
                                                                                                        Looking for a memorable
                                                                                                        backcountry weekend getaway?
Pukaskwa National Park is a vast, wild, natural playground found
                                                                                                        Mdaabii Miikna, ‘go to the shore
on the edge of the world’s largest freshwater lake. It is one of many                                   trail’ in Anishinaabemowin,
national parks in Canada but it is Ontario’s only wilderness national                                   delivers everything that
park. The park is located 3.5 hours (320 km) east of Thunder Bay.                                       Pukaskwa has to offer in a
                                                                                                        fraction of the time it takes to
HATTIE COVE                                                   CANOE & SUP RENTALS                       complete the Coastal Hiking
CAMPGROUND                                                    Enjoy paddling the peaceful waters        Trail! This backpacking loop
Relax and play in Pukaskwa                                    of Pukaskwa’s Hattie Cove and its         trail is accessed via the Coastal
National Park’s breathtaking                                  awesome wilderness views by renting a     Hiking Trail and is about a 24 km
front country campground,                                     canoe or stand up paddle board (SUP).     round trip from Hattie Cove.
trails and beaches. Enjoy the                                 Pack a picnic lunch and explore the
park’s cozy comforts like hot                                 Hattie Cove wetlands or simply float
showers, electrical hook-ups                                  around for an afternoon!
and free Visitor Centre WiFi.
Summer is peak season for            INTERPRETIVE
the park when all services are       PROGRAMMING
available. Be sure to check          Family-friendly interpretive
out the Visitor Centre, browse       programs are available in
around the park store and            the park from Canada Day to
explore the scenic trails.           Labour Day. Participate in
                                     guided hikes,
                                     find a geocache,                 RED CHAIRS                        ANISHINAABE CAMP
                                     experience the                   Parks Canada invites you to       Discover the Anishinaabe Camp
                                     seven                            test out Pukaskwa’s red chairs!   and its wigwam and cook tent.
                                     grandfather                      Take lots of photos and share     All are welcome to join park
                                     teachings, and                   them through social media         interpreters as they host cultural
                                     more!                            using #ShareTheChair.             programs in this amazing space!
COASTAL HIKING TRAIL
Get ready to experience the
wildest hike on the wildest                                           COASTAL PADDLING ROUTE
shore of all of the Great Lakes!                                      Lake Superior. They weren’t kidding when they named her.
Pukaskwa National Park’s                                              Superior in size, superior in adventure! Comparable to ocean
60 km Coastal Hiking Trail                                            paddling, Pukaskwa’s Coastal Paddling Route offers premier
is an adventurer’s dream                                              Ontario wilderness, and demands technical knowledge and skill
that offers a challenging but                                         from visitors who wish to experience it. With Pukaskwa’s 135 km
rewarding premier Ontario                                             of coastline, the adventures are endless.
wilderness experience. Visitors
who are properly equipped for        CONTACT US
backpacking this difficult terrain   Pukaskwa National Park                                      Join us! Follow us! Like us!
will enjoy relaxing campsites,       PO Box 212, 0 HWY 627, Heron Bay, ON, P0T 1R0               We want to connect with you!
beautiful beaches and awe-           Tel: 807-229-0801 | Email: pukaskwaont@pc.gc.ca                PukaskwaNP
inspiring views.                     pc.gc.ca/pukaskwa                                             @PukaskwaNP

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golf

      GOLF                                                                                                           THUNDER BAY
                                                                                                                    COUNTRY CLUB

      With 11 courses in the Thunder Bay area, our impressive
      variety and world-class quality courses attract
      enthusiasts from around the globe. Lush fairways,
      rich challenging greens and captivating wildlife
      viewing opportunities are par for the course!

      18 HOLE COURSES                                                       9 HOLE COURSES
      CHAPPLES                STRATHCONA                                    BAYVIEW GOLF COURSE         EMERALD GREENS
      GOLF COURSE             GOLF COURSE                                   370 Hwy 587, Pass Lake      GOLF COURSE AND
      530 Chapples Park Dr.   500 Hodder Ave.                               (807) 977-2646 ext. 23      DRIVING RANGE
      off Redwood Ave.        (807) 683-8251                                bayview-golfcourse.com      2370 Dawson Rd.
      (807) 625-2582          golfthunderbay.ca                                                         (807) 767-4511
      golfthunderbay.ca                                                     CENTENNIAL PINES
                                                                                                        emeraldgreens.ca
                              WHITEWATER                                    GOLF COURSE
      FORT WILLIAM            GOLF CLUB                                     320 Thompson Rd.            NORTHERN LIGHTS
      COUNTRY CLUB            1961 King George’s Park Dr.                   (807) 767-4600              GOLF COMPLEX
      1350 Mountain Rd.       Rosslyn Village                                                           540 Twin City Crossroads
      (807) 475-8925                                                        DRAGON HILLS
                              (807) 475-4653                                                            (807) 935-2687
      fwcc.ca                 whitewatergolf.com
                                                                            GOLF COURSE AND
                                                                            DRIVING RANGE               ST. URHO’S
                                                                            975 Onion Lake Rd.          GOLF COURSE AND
                                                                            (807) 768-TOFF (8633)       DRIVING RANGE
                                                                            dragonhillsgolfcourse.com   2165 Hwy 588, Nolalu
                                                                                                        (807) 475-8814

                                                                                                        THUNDER BAY
                                                                                                        COUNTRY CLUB
                                                            © Dan Garrity

                                                                                                        1055 Oliver Rd.
                                                                                                        (807) 345-8225
                                                                                                        thunderbaycc.ca

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      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE               2022
golf

                                                                FOOT GOLF
                                                                What happens if you combine soccer and
CHAPPLES                                                        golf? You get foot golf! Available at Chapples
GOLF COURSE                                                     Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, the
                                                                cups are 21 inches in diameter and marked
                                                                with an orange flag stick. Tee boxes provide
                                                                a starting point and off you go in a similar
                                                                format to golf. It’s all about putting the ball in
 DISC GOLF                                                      the hole with the fewest amount of strokes.

 Test your arm and enjoy
 some disc golf. Discs are
 available for purchase at
 The Loop Clothing Boutique.
                                               © Scott MacKay

 There are two 18-hole disc golf courses
 in the city: Dragon Hills Golf Course and
 Birch Point Park at Boulevard Lake. Another
 course can be found at the Bayview Golf
 Course in nearby Pass Lake.

 MINIATURE GOLF
 BIRCH HILL MINI GOLF
 162 Spruce River Rd.,
 Thunder Bay KOA, Shuniah
 (807) 683-6221
 thunderbaykoa.com

 PLAY IT FORWARD
 FUNLAND
 400 Lyon Blvd., Boulevard Lake
 (807) 708-0757
 playitforwardfunland.com

 VANDERWEES MINI GOLF
 648 Mapleward Rd.
 (807) 767-3666
 vanderweesgardengallery.com

                                                                                                                                       27
                                                                                                v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
exploring + adventure

      OUTDOOR
      ADVENTURE
      Here in Thunder Bay, we’re avid outdoorsy types with
      a passion for getting back to nature every chance we
      get. Is it any wonder when majestic rolling mountains,
      magnificent boreal forests and Lake Superior – the world’s
      largest freshwater lake – are a mere stone’s throw away?

                                                                   © thestoriesyoutell

28
      THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE   2022
exploring + adventure

                                                                                                                                      © Paul Desaulniers
© Goh Iromoto

                CAMPING                                        the Delaney Arena, available for the
                                                               convenience of residents and visitors
                                                                                                             Outdoor Skills and Thrills offers guided
                                                                                                             rock and ice climbing adventures and
                Relive your favourite childhood                to Thunder Bay. There is no charge for        courses – with all equipment included.
                memories and build new ones with               this service.
                                                                                                             In winter, experience some of the
                your family: campfire cooking, hiking                                                        best ice climbing east of the Rockies.
                through the woods, swimming,
                paddling in crystal-clear waters,              CLIMBING                                      Northwestern Ontario is known as
                                                                                                             one of Canada’s premier ice climbing
                fishing and shore lunches.                                                                   venues and is visited year after year by
                                                               Within a 15-minute drive from
                Whether in a tent or an outfitted RV,          anywhere in the city, climbers will           climbers from all over the world. Some
                our nearby Campground and RV Parks             find dozens of rock routes to explore.        of the routes are over 300 ft, with ice so
                let you unwind and escape the stresses         Thunder Bay and the surrounding area          thick it sticks around until the summer!
                of city life.                                  features some of the oldest, hardest          Thunder Bay is also home to a large
                                                               granite in North America. Both novice         indoor climbing facility, Boulder Bear
                The City of Thunder Bay has a seasonal
                                                               and experienced climbers will find            Climbing Centre.
                Recreational Vehicle Pumping Station,
                                                               a challenge, and be rewarded with
                located on Legion Track Drive behind
                                                               breathtaking views.

                    URBA N FISHING                             for steelhead trout as well as walleye        In September, chinook
                                                               and pike. Within just a few blocks of         salmon from Lake
                    By Gord Ellis                              the downtown north core of the city           Superior run up the
                    Thunder Bay has one of the most            is Prince Arthur’s Landing, at Marina         river to spawn and are
                    unique and varied urban fisheries in       Park. Off the rock wall on the east end       occasionally caught
                    Canada. Throughout the city, there         of the park, you can shore cast for pike,     by anglers. There are
                    are several rivers with greenspace         perch and, in the spring, steelhead. Pike     several access points
                    that allows for access to great fishing.   have been caught offshore here that           to the river, including
                                                               topped 20 pounds.                             beneath the bridge to
                    Rivers like the Current, McIntyre,
                                                                                                             McKellar Island on Island
                    Neebing and McVicar have a                 One of the best local rivers for fishing is
                                                                                                             Dr., and the Neste Boat
                    spring and fall run of steelhead           the Kaministiquia, located on the city’s
                                                                                                             Launch, off Montreal
                    trout as well as native brook trout.       south side. The Kam has a diverse fishery
                                                                                                             Street. Although you can
                    Boulevard Lake is a reservoir on           that includes smallmouth bass, pike,
                                                                                                             fish from shore, the Kam is a large river
                    the Current River that has walleye,        walleye, perch, rock bass and crappie.
                                                                                                             and a boat, canoe or kayak will allow you
                    and the occasional rainbow trout           During the spring, there are steelhead
                                                                                                             to cover more of the river.
                    and brook trout. At the mouth of           and even the occasional brook trout
                    the Current River, you can cast            found here.

                                                                                                                                                                   29
                                                                                                                            v i s i t t h u n d e r b a y. c o m
exploring + adventure

                                                                                          © Scott MacKay
© Normalyn Coulombe*

                       FISHING                            HIKING, RUNNING
                       Bring your rod and try urban
                       fishing in the city’s many
                                                          AND WALKING
                       waterways, or head out into the    Thunder Bay is a hiker’s       The Lakehead Region
                       region with a boat or in a float   dream. The diverse terrain     Conservation Authority
                       plane. Stay at fully equipped      in and around the city         maintains trails at various
                       fishing camps in the heart of      offers casual day hikes,       areas close to the city. No
                       the wilderness. During winter,     challenging multi-day trails   matter which area you
                       ice fishing reigns as a beloved    and everything in between;     visit, you will see beautiful
                       past time.                         experience unparalleled        scenery and find great
                                                          views and discover             trails. There is a very good
                       Be sure to check out the           interesting flora and fauna.   chance you will also see
                       Ontario Fishing Regulations                                       some wildlife – bring your
                       and Licensing Requirements         Download the WAYfinder         camera!
                       before you go.                     Trails app to your mobile
                                                          device and find trails near    Walkers, runners and                  hug rivers and
                                                          you. Maps and GPS can          cyclists can take advantage           lakes while providing
                       FOR A LIST OF LOCAL FISHING -
                                                          be used offline. Hikes are     the expansive recreational            quick access to recreation
                       REL ATED BUSINE SSE S, VISIT:
                                                          rated by difficulty and        trail system in the city.             centres, attractions,
                       DIRECTORY.VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM                                                                           shopping, business and
                                                          popularity.                    34 kilometres (21 miles)
                                                                                         of multi-purpose trails               residential areas.

                                               Guided Paddling Tours, Expeditions, Skills Courses & Rentals
                                               Rossport, Ontario
                                               807-356-6785 · suchaniceday.com

                                                                                                           Animating the WONDER of Lake Superior

      30
                         THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE                    2022
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