A trip to Lake Superior Provincial Park is sure to leave you with a lifetime of memories and experiences. Located on the shores of Lake Superior, the largest and coldest of the Great Lakes, this park is renowned for its stunning scenic beauty. With its towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches, the park is a haven for wildlife and a great place to explore. But what activities should you include in your itinerary? Here are just some of the things to do in Lake Superior Provincial Park.
One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a boat trip around the lake. The lake is so large that it’s impossible to take in all of its beauty from the shore, so a boat trip is a great way to get a unique perspective. You may also be able to spot wildlife such as the endangered Lake Superior whitefish, bald eagles and moose. Boating is a great activity for those looking for a peaceful, relaxing experience.
If you prefer to be on land, then why not embark on a scenic hiking or biking trail? With over 120 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone. From easy family-friendly routes to advanced backcountry trails, there’s something here for all levels of experience. The views you’ll get of the stunning landscapes will make the effort worthwhile.
For a cultural experience, consider visiting some of the heritage sites in the park. These include the agawa rock pictographs, the ojibwe interpretative centre and the hiawatha highlands. Each of these sites provides an opportunity to learn about the history of the area, its indigenous peoples and their relationship to the land.
Other activities include swimming and beachcombing. With its many secluded coves and sand bars, the lake offers some of the best swimming in Ontario. The waters of the lake are often ice-cold, but they make for a refreshing dip after a long hike. Beachcombing is a great way to explore the park and you might be lucky enough to find some interesting specimens such as fossilized trilobites and other ancient creatures.
Fishing is also a popular pastime in Lake Superior Provincial Park. There are many species of fish that can be caught throughout the year, including walleye, northern pike, lake trout and whitefish. Be sure to buy the necessary fishing licenses before casting your rod, as regulations are strictly enforced.
Finally, be sure to take your time exploring the park. Spend at least a few days here, as the park offers so much to see and do. Whether you’re camping, fishing, swimming or just exploring the rugged terrain, Lake Superior Provincial Park is an incredible destination that will stay with you for years to come.
Geological Walks and Tours
Lake Superior Provincial Park is a great place to explore the region’s incredible geology. With its ancient rock formations, it is a paradise for geologists, geologists-in-training and amateur rock-hunters alike. Lead by a resident geologist, you can take a guided tour and glimpse into the deep past. You will learn about some of the earth’s most fascinating processes, and get up close with samples of some of the oldest sedimentary and igneous rocks on the planet.
These tours are not only educational – they are also incredibly fun. You’ll get a chance to get off the beaten track and explore some of the most undeveloped and wild areas of the park. After the tour, you’ll gain an understanding of the wonders of geology and a newfound appreciation for the park’s many marvels.
These tours often begin at the Lake Superior Visitor Centre and provide an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with the park’s amazing natural features. From here you can also pick up information about other activities, such as kayaking, canoeing and motorized boating.
Camping In Lake Superior Provincial Park
Camping in the park is a great way to really immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. With picturesque campsites around the lake and cosy cabins away from the water, there’s something for every type of camper. Bring your own tent, RV or campervan or rent one locally.
Once you’re set up you’ll be able to enjoy a plethora of activities including kayaking, canoeing, hiking, fishing and swimming. Be sure to take part in some of the ranger-led programmes, such as astronomy nights and guided hikes. Do some stargazing and appreciate the vastness of the night sky in this remote corner of the world.
Lake Superior Provincial Park’s campgrounds are also a great place to socialize and meet people from all over the world. From here you can join a tour, make new friends and explore the park in depth.
Canoeing, Kayaking and SUP-ing
The vast waters of Lake Superior are inviting for those who love water-based activities. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, why not try kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding? If you’re after a more relaxed experience, consider canoeing.
You can rent kayaks and canoes from the park’s many rental shops, or you can bring your own. If you do decide to bring your own, be sure to check the weather before your trip and dress appropriately.
Canoeing, kayaking and SUP-ing are great activities for those who want to see the surrounding area from the water and escape the crowds. Whatever your level of experience, you’re sure to find something to suit you in Lake Superior Provincial Park.
Wildlife Spotting
The park is easily one of Ontario’s best spots for spotting wildlife, with most of its mammals, birds and aquatic creatures still living in their natural habitats. You may even spot some of the more elusive mammals such as marten, fisher, porcupine, otter and lynx.
Be sure to keep an eye out for moose and deer, especially on the banks of rivers and streams. You can also spot bald eagles soaring over the lake, one of the region’s apex predators. With its lasting legacy, the endangered Lake Superior whitefish is also a highlight for wildlife spotters.
Keep your distance from wildlife and never feed them. For safety reasons, never approach animals. Remember, the park is their home too, so respect their space.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities in the park, and Lake Superior has some of the best fishing waters in Canada. The lake is home to numerous species of game fish such as walleye, smallmouth bass and lake trout, as well as many varieties of panfish. You can purchase a fishing licence and fish from shore, or take a boat out to one of the many islands where the fish are usually biting.
The park boasts many excellent fishing spots where visitors can target a variety of species. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner just starting out, Lake Superior offers an incredible fishing experience that you’ll never forget.
Adventure in the Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park is a paradise for thrill-seekers and adventurers. With its rugged terrain, icy waters and stunning landscapes, the park offers something special for everyone. From ziplining to paddling to caving, this part of Ontario makes the perfect playground for the adrenaline enthusiast.
Those looking for a more relaxed experience can try stand-up paddleboarding or sea kayaking. There’s also plenty of room for taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, swimming in one of the deep, clear ponds or simply admiring the mighty lake from the shore.
A trip to Lake Superior Provincial Park is sure to make any adventure-seeker’s heart beat a little faster. Whether you’re looking for a thrill or a peaceful experience, this park has it all.
