Attractions and Places To See around Sault Ste. Marie - Top 4

Sault Ste. Marie offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit St. Mary's Island, known for its wildlife and river views. The Hiawatha Highlands, just north of downtown, provide over 3,000 acres of forested wilderness with scenic trails and wetlands, including Crystal Falls. The St. Marys River itself is a significant feature, offering opportunities for viewing and recreation. Marks Bay Conservation Area features shoreline on the St. Marys River, ideal for nature viewing.

The region is rich in history and culture. Explore the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, an engineering marvel with picturesque trails and insights into its past. The Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the community's history through preserved buildings and gardens. You can also visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, or the Art Gallery of Algoma, which features a strong Indigenous art collection.

Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. St. Mary's Island is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. The Sault Ste. Marie KOA Campground is a good starting point for family adventures. Watching ships pass through the Soo Locks (on the US side) is also a fascinating experience. Roberta Bondar Park and Tent Pavilion often hosts family activities and festivals, and Ashmund Bay Park offers a picnic area and walking trail with river views.

Sault Ste. Marie offers various hiking opportunities. You can find trails like the Round Island Point Nature Preserve Trail and the Spirits Rising Monument – St. Mary's Island loop. For more options and detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Sault Ste. Marie guide.

Yes, there are several running trails to enjoy. Popular routes include the 'Across the lock gates loop from Sault Ste. Marie' and the 'Fort Creek loop'. For a comprehensive list of routes and their difficulties, check out the Running Trails around Sault Ste. Marie guide.

Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Across the lock gates – St. Mary's Island loop' and various other bike loops from Sault Ste. Marie. These routes range from easy to moderate. You can find more detailed information and additional routes in the Cycling around Sault Ste. Marie guide.

A truly unique experience is the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, especially popular in the fall for its stunning autumn colors and waterfalls. The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site is an engineering marvel. You can also visit the William Henry 'Bill' Orazietti and Canine Heroes Memorial, a local landmark near the riverfront.

The fall is particularly popular for its breathtaking views of autumn colors, especially along the Agawa Canyon Tour Train route and in the mixed forests surrounding the city. Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural features like the St. Marys River and Hiawatha Highlands.

The William Henry 'Bill' Orazietti and Canine Heroes Memorial is noted as wheelchair accessible. Many urban areas, such as the Waterfront Boardwalk and Roberta Bondar Park, also offer accessible pathways for enjoyment.

St. Mary's Island is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, where you might see beavers, muskrats, minks, and various water and songbirds. The St. Marys River itself is a significant habitat for fish and migrating animals, and Whitefish Island offers peaceful river views and bird-spotting opportunities.

Whitefish Island, located across the canal, offers self-guided tours to learn about Indigenous heritage and culture, with evidence of a pre-European-contact Indigenous encampment and trading post dating back over 2000 years. The Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre also represents an important cultural and historical point.

Yes, there are several scenic viewpoints. From St. Mary's Island and Ashmund Bay Park, you can enjoy great views of the St. Marys River. The Tower of History (on the US side) offers panoramic views from its 210-foot observation deck.