Photo by Goh Iromoto
Located upon the traditional lands of the Fort William First Nation, signatory to the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850, Thunder Bay is an urban destination that enjoys an intimate connectivity to the natural environment around it. Regarded as one of Canada’s premier outdoor cities, Thunder Bay offers a diverse collection of world-class outdoor spaces and attractions, events, and a blossoming culinary scene.
The Outdoor Adventure
Thunder Bay is full of energizing outdoor adventures, including hiking, cycling, and many others that are just waiting for you to come and enjoy. Rent a bike while in Thunder Bay and enjoy the Black Sheep Mountain Bike Club’s newly expanded Trowbridge Forest Trail. Hikers can enjoy trails at parks and conservation areas around Thunder Bay, including the popular Sleeping Giant and Kakabeka Falls Provincial Parks.
For those wanting an on-the-lake adventure, get out on Lake Superior with Sail Superior and enjoy one of their unique Thunder Bay and area tours on the Superior Rocket, a 32-foot high-speed Zodiac, SV Welcome, a 50-foot lagoon 500 luxury catamaran, or one of their two sailboats. If you want to try your hand at paddle boarding, canoeing, or kayaking, Wilderness Supply can gear you up and set you on your way to paddle some of the many rivers and inland lakes around Thunder Bay. For fishing, Thunder Bay’s rivers invite you to cast a line, and there are a number of fishing charters available for those who would like a guide instead.
On Land
If you are looking for something a little more relaxed, head to Fort William Historical Park, where the world’s largest reconstructed fur trade post comes to life with characters in costume and daily interpretive programming.
Visit Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay), located on Fort William First Nation, for stunning views of the city and lake, and, if you are lucky, you may be able to watch a Pow Wow during special events. Or, head east of the city for the opportunity to dig for amethyst at one of Thunder Bay’s amethyst mines in Shuniah, or visit Ouimet and Eagle Canyon in Dorion. But make sure you stop at the Terry Fox Scenic Lookout to reflect on Terry’s legacy while enjoying a beautiful view of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant.
For history buffs, you can enjoy the city’s art, culture, and architectural history with the Thunder Bay Tour App, featuring 12 tour itineraries throughout Thunder Bay, including stops at historical landmarks and businesses.
For shoppers, the Waterfront District is home to the newest indoor market place, Goods & Co Market, a female-led, one-of-a-kind, exciting, and innovative experience featuring over 25 local artisans, makers, and culinary crafters, plus weekend live music. Additionally, the Thunder Bay shopping scene includes the Bay & Algoma Historic District, the Fort William Business District, the Westfort Village, and the intercity Shopping Area.
The Reward
After a day of adventure, enjoy a unique culinary scene that offers locally curated delights, along with Indigenous, North American, and global diversity.
The culinary scene has been complemented by growth in the craft beer scene, with the addition of three new breweries, making Thunder Bay home to five craft brewing establishments.
Check out our website at visitthunderbay.com to find detailed information for planning your trip, including what to do, or book your hotel, motel, B&B, or hostel stay.
