Canada's Charming Great Lakes Destination Is Dubbed 'Ontario's Best Adventure Town'

There are many gorgeous sights in the northern region of Ontario, Canada. Scenic lookouts, lakes, and vast stretches of wilderness, and Canada's most beautiful national parks are all easily accessible from several major cities by car and plane. Sitting along the St. Marys River, a historic waterway that connects Lake Superior — the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area — to Lake Huron is a little charming town of about 76,000 people. 

St. Marys River contains powerful rapids that made it an important gathering place for Indigenous communities, particularly the Anishinabek, who relied on the surrounding waters for fishing and travel. For visitors, Sault Ste. Marie's position between major waterways and vast northern forests makes it an appealing starting point for exploring the wider region. Within a 20-minute drive, visitors can reach the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior. Many other regional lakes and rivers in the region are well suited to paddling. An extensive trail system passes through boreal forest and rocky Canadian Shield. Across the river is also the twin city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The two regions are linked by the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge — crossing this border is relatively simple, as long as you're carrying the necessary documents. Many surrounding destinations are worth adding to your itinerary, such as Michigan's underrated city of Marquette on the shores of Lake Superior.

Because of this geography, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario functions as both a gateway and a base camp for outdoor recreation in northern Ontario. With its direct access to one of the continent's largest freshwater systems and the surrounding wilderness, the area offers a wide range of opportunities for those looking to spend time outdoors.

The city of Sault Ste. Marie has worked to create an accessible trove of cultural excursions in which visitors can learn about the area's deep ties to Indigenous communities. The project is known as the John Roswell Hub Trail, which covers over 14 miles of multi-use trails that cross through seven historic sections of the city. The project's maps and audio tours are an excellent way to get to know the local flora and fauna, and the historic forces that have drawn so many people to this charming town and surrounding region. A short drive north of the city, hikers can explore the Hiawatha Highlands, a network of trails popular with locals. This is one of several paths that are perfect for a quick escape into nature without going too far out of town.

Farther north, about a two-hour drive, visitors can take a day trip to Lake Superior Provincial Park, one of the most celebrated wilderness parks in Ontario. The park stretches along a dramatic section of Lake Superior, a stunning Great Lake with perfect water for recreation, and contains more than a dozen hiking trails that wind through forests, beaches, and rocky ridges. Among the park's most famous hikes is the Agawa Bay Pictographs trail. This short but striking hike leads along a rocky shoreline to a collection of centuries-old Indigenous pictographs painted on cliff faces above the water. The red ochre images depict animals, canoes, and spiritual figures, offering a glimpse into the cultural traditions of the region's early inhabitants.

These many trails highlight the diversity of the local landscape. Hiking in the area often comes with the chance to spot wildlife, including the occasional moose. In warmer months, these trails attract hikers and joggers, while in winter they transform into cross-country ski routes.

Water is at the heart of life in Sault Ste. Marie, and many of the region's greatest adventures take place on the surrounding lakes and rivers. Swimming is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to enjoy the area during the summer months. Beaches along Lake Superior are known for their clear water and striking scenery. In places like Batchawana Bay, long sandy beaches stretch along the shoreline, creating ideal spots for a refreshing swim and relaxing afternoon by the water. Because the bay is sheltered, it's also considered one of the best "warm water" beaches in the area. However, by and large, the water temperatures are brisk, even in summer. On warm days, it provides a welcome break from the heat.

Paddling adventures are also a major draw. Several outfitters offer guided, themed tours along the St. Marys River near the Soo Locks. For those seeking a more immersive wilderness experience, nearby lakes and rivers provide excellent canoeing routes. Some paddling enthusiasts venture to take a canoe or kayak out onto Lake Superior itself. The lake's vastness resembles an inland sea, and paddlers must pay close attention to weather and waves. On calm and turbulent days alike, visitors say the experience is unforgettable. During spring, paddlers can get an unparalleled taste of the North's incredible change of seasons, navigating between melting ice formations stretching out across the water into the foggy horizon.