Best Things To Do in Manitoulin Island, Canada

Best Things To Do in Manitoulin Island, Canada

Welcome to Manitoulin Island, a breathtaking destination in Ontario, Canada, known for its rich indigenous culture, pristine nature, and outdoor adventures. Nestled in Lake Huron, Manitoulin is the largest freshwater island in the world, boasting over 100 inland lakes, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and vibrant local communities.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking to unwind in a scenic setting, Manitoulin Island has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top things to do on this hidden gem of Ontario.

1. Explore the Stunning Bridal Veil Falls

One of the most breathtaking natural attractions on Manitoulin Island, Bridal Veil Falls is a 40-foot cascading waterfall located in the picturesque village of Kagawong. The waterfall elegantly tumbles over a limestone cliff, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water that flows into a serene, shallow pool below. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hiking trails, this destination is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Whether you want to dip your toes in the refreshing water, take in the peaceful ambiance, or explore nearby attractions, Bridal Veil Falls offers a magical experience that highlights Manitoulin Island’s natural beauty.

Things to Do at Bridal Veil Falls

✅ Take a Scenic Hike Along the Trails
A well-maintained trail leads to the falls, offering a peaceful walk through the forested landscape of Manitoulin Island. The easy-to-moderate terrain makes it an excellent family-friendly hike, with wooden bridges and small viewing areas along the way.

✅ Walk Behind the Waterfall for a Unique Perspective
One of the most exciting features of Bridal Veil Falls is the ability to walk behind the cascading water! Feel the cool mist on your face and capture stunning, up-close photos of this natural wonder.

✅ Enjoy a Refreshing Swim in the Pool Below
On a hot summer day, the shallow pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a quick dip. The cool, clear water is a great way to refresh yourself after a hike.

✅ Visit Kagawong Village and the Old Mill Heritage Centre
Just a short walk away, Kagawong is a charming lakeside village with local shops, cozy cafés, and cultural sites. Stop by the Old Mill Heritage Centre to explore the history of Manitoulin Island through artifacts and fascinating exhibits.

✅ Take Stunning Photographs in Every Season
Bridal Veil Falls is a photographer’s dream, offering vibrant green surroundings in summer, golden foliage in fall, and a frozen winter wonderland when the falls turn into an icy masterpiece.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
Bridal Veil Falls is located in Kagawong, Ontario, on the northern side of Manitoulin Island. It’s easily accessible from Highway 540, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the island.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: From Little Current, take Highway 540 west for about 30 minutes until you reach Kagawong. Look for the Bridal Veil Falls parking area near the bridge.
• By Bicycle: If you enjoy cycling, the road to Kagawong offers beautiful countryside views and is a popular route for bike enthusiasts.
• On Foot: If you're staying in Kagawong, you can walk directly to the falls via a short, well-marked trail.

🚗 Parking: There is free parking available near the falls, but it fills up quickly during peak summer months, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Local Tip

⏰ Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature without interruptions. For a unique experience, visit in winter, when the falls freeze into a stunning ice formation, perfect for winter photography.

2. Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for Epic Views

For those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure, the Cup and Saucer Trail is Manitoulin Island’s most famous hiking trail and one of Ontario’s best viewpoints. The trail takes its name from the dramatic cliffs that resemble a teacup sitting atop a saucer, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Manitoulin Island’s forests, lakes, and the North Channel of Lake Huron.

Stretching across 12 kilometers, this hiking destination offers a variety of trails, ranging from moderate scenic routes to a challenging adventure trail with steep rock climbs. Whether you're a casual hiker or a seasoned adventurer, the Cup and Saucer Trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Manitoulin’s rugged beauty.

Things to Do on the Cup and Saucer Trail

✅ Hike the Main Trail for Spectacular Views
The Main Trail is the most popular route, spanning 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) one way and taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush forests, rocky ridges, and open meadows, eventually arriving at towering cliffs over 200 feet high. The final viewpoint rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views—a perfect spot for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the beauty of Manitoulin Island.

✅ Challenge Yourself on the Adventure Trail
If you’re up for an extra thrill, take the Adventure Trail, an offshoot of the Main Trail that includes steep ascents, rocky climbs, and a few tight squeezes through crevices. While it requires agility and a good sense of balance, the extra challenge makes the reward at the summit even sweeter. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique rock formations and hidden caves, adding an extra element of exploration to your hike.

✅ Explore the South Loop for a Quieter Experience
For those looking for a less crowded alternative, the South Loop is a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route that offers a more peaceful trek through Manitoulin’s dense forest. While it doesn’t feature the same dramatic cliffs as the Main Trail, it still provides beautiful nature views and a chance to spot local wildlife, including deer and a variety of birds.

✅ Take Stunning Photographs at the Lookout Points
The highlight of the Cup and Saucer Trail is undoubtedly its breathtaking viewpoints. The main lookout platform at the top provides a panoramic view of the island’s rolling hills, dense forests, and deep blue waters. Whether you visit in spring when the landscape is lush and green, in fall when the trees explode into vibrant colors, or in winter when the cliffs are dusted with snow, this spot is a dream location for photographers and nature lovers alike.

✅ Enjoy a Picnic at the Summit
After conquering the trail, reward yourself with a well-deserved break! The flat rock formations at the summit provide a perfect spot to sit back, enjoy a packed lunch, and take in the stunning views. Bring snacks, a water bottle, and a camera—you’ll want to linger at the top for a while!

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
The Cup and Saucer Trailhead is located off Highway 540, about 20 minutes west of Little Current, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the island.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: From Little Current, take Highway 540 west for about 18 kilometers (11 miles). The trailhead parking lot is well-marked with signs.
• By Bicycle: If you're cycling, the road to the trailhead is paved and scenic, but be prepared for hilly sections before you arrive.

🚗 Parking: There is a free parking lot at the trailhead, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Local Tip

⏰ Best Time to Visit: For the best experience, hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset from the summit. If you plan to hike in the fall, expect incredible autumn foliage that transforms the landscape into a golden paradise.

3. Discover Indigenous Culture at the Great Spirit Circle Trail

Manitoulin Island is home to rich Indigenous history, with the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi people deeply connected to the land. The Great Spirit Circle Trail offers visitors an immersive cultural experience, allowing them to learn, explore, and connect with Indigenous traditions, beliefs, and ways of life.

This one-of-a-kind experience provides guided tours, storytelling sessions, and hands-on workshops led by Indigenous knowledge keepers and elders. Whether you're interested in spiritual teachings, traditional crafts, or wilderness skills, the Great Spirit Circle Trail is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Indigenous heritage of Manitoulin Island.

Things to Do on the Great Spirit Circle Trail

✅ Join a Guided Cultural Tour
Led by Indigenous guides, these tours take visitors through sacred sites, historical landmarks, and nature trails, all while sharing stories and teachings passed down through generations. You’ll learn about the significance of the land, the importance of balance with nature, and the wisdom of Indigenous traditions.

✅ Experience Traditional Storytelling & Drumming
Sit around a crackling fire and listen to captivating Indigenous legends and oral histories, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of traditional drumming. These sessions provide a powerful insight into Indigenous spirituality, creation stories, and teachings about the natural world.

✅ Participate in Hands-On Cultural Workshops
Try your hand at beadwork, moccasin-making, or canoe-building, guided by skilled Indigenous artisans. These workshops allow visitors to not only learn about Indigenous traditions but also create meaningful handmade keepsakes.

✅ Go on a Canoe Heritage Tour
Paddle across pristine waters in a traditional birchbark canoe, an essential part of Indigenous culture. Along the way, your guide will share stories about how waterways were used for trade, travel, and connecting communities.

✅ Learn Traditional Survival Skills
Discover how Indigenous people have thrived on the land for centuries with lessons on foraging, fire-making, and tracking wildlife. These skills offer a new appreciation for the deep knowledge and respect for nature that Indigenous communities uphold.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
The Great Spirit Circle Trail headquarters is located in M’Chigeeng First Nation, about 15 minutes west of Little Current on Highway 540.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: Drive west from Little Current on Highway 540 for about 15 kilometers (9 miles) until you reach M’Chigeeng.
• By Bicycle: The route is bike-friendly, with scenic countryside views along the way.

🚗 Parking: Free parking is available at the Great Spirit Circle Trail center.

Local Tip

🔥 Best Way to Experience It: Book a Sunset Storytelling & Drumming Session for an unforgettable evening under the stars, listening to Indigenous legends while the sky changes colors over the island.

4. Relax at Providence Bay Beach

If you’re looking for a perfect beach escape on Manitoulin Island, Providence Bay Beach is the place to be. Known for its golden sandy shoreline and clear turquoise waters, this beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches on the island. With its gentle waves, scenic boardwalk, and laid-back atmosphere, Providence Bay Beach is a must-visit for families, sunbathers, and nature lovers alike.

Whether you want to relax under the sun, take a dip in Lake Huron, explore the nearby nature trails, or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones, this beach has something for everyone. The area is also rich in Ojibwe history, and its name—"where the sand curves around the water"—reflects the deep cultural ties Indigenous communities have with this stunning location.

Things to Do at Providence Bay Beach

✅ Sunbathe and Enjoy the Warm Summer Breeze
With its wide sandy shore and ample space, Providence Bay Beach is perfect for laying down a towel, kicking back, and soaking in the sun. The soft golden sand feels amazing beneath your feet, and there’s plenty of room to set up umbrellas, beach chairs, or even a hammock between the trees.

✅ Take a Leisurely Walk Along the Boardwalk
Stretching along the beach, the Providence Bay Boardwalk offers a scenic and relaxing walk with stunning views of Lake Huron’s vast blue horizon. Along the way, you’ll find informational signs about the area’s history, wildlife, and Indigenous heritage, making it an educational as well as scenic experience.

✅ Swim in the Refreshing Freshwater of Lake Huron
The clear, shallow waters of Providence Bay make it an excellent spot for swimming and wading. The gradual slope of the shoreline allows for safe and enjoyable water activities for all ages. If you're visiting in the summer, the lake’s temperature is perfect for cooling off after sunbathing or a beach walk.

✅ Enjoy Beach Activities Like Volleyball and Sandcastle Building
Providence Bay Beach is ideal for family-friendly activities, including beach volleyball, frisbee, and sandcastle building. If you're traveling with kids, bring along buckets and shovels for some classic seaside fun!

✅ Catch a Stunning Sunset Over Lake Huron
Few places on Manitoulin Island offer sunsets as breathtaking as Providence Bay Beach. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully over the lake. It’s an ideal setting for a romantic evening or peaceful moment of reflection.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
Providence Bay Beach is located in Providence Bay, on the south side of Manitoulin Island. It’s about 30 minutes south of Mindemoya, making it an easy drive from other parts of the island.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: From Little Current, take Highway 540 west, then head south on Highway 551 to Providence Bay. The beach is well-marked with signs.
• By Bicycle: Providence Bay is accessible by bike, but be prepared for hilly terrain along the route.

🚗 Parking: Free beachfront parking is available near the boardwalk and picnic areas.

Local Tip

⏰ Best Time to Visit: Visit in late afternoon to enjoy a peaceful beach day followed by a breathtaking sunset. Afterward, grab some homemade ice cream from Huron Island Time Café, just a short walk from the beach.

5. Visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation

The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation is a must-visit destination for those interested in the rich history, traditions, and artistic expressions of the Ojibwe people. Located in M’Chigeeng First Nation, this vibrant cultural center is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating Indigenous heritage through exhibits, workshops, and interactive experiences.

Visitors can explore traditional artifacts, contemporary Indigenous art, and storytelling sessions, all while learning about the deep spiritual connection the Ojibwe people have with the land. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about Indigenous traditions, this cultural center provides an insightful and meaningful experience.

Things to Do at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation

✅ Explore Exhibits on Ojibwe History & Culture
The center features rotating exhibits showcasing historical artifacts, traditional clothing, beadwork, and ceremonial items. You’ll gain insight into the Ojibwe way of life, their oral storytelling traditions, and the impact of colonial history on Indigenous communities.

✅ Admire Indigenous Art & Handcrafted Creations
The foundation houses a gallery of contemporary and traditional Indigenous art, featuring paintings, carvings, and sculptures by talented Ojibwe artists. Each piece tells a story, reflecting themes of spirituality, nature, and cultural identity.

✅ Join a Traditional Crafting Workshop
Want a hands-on experience? Participate in a crafting workshop, where you can learn how to make dreamcatchers, beadwork, or moccasins using traditional techniques passed down for generations.

✅ Listen to Storytelling & Drumming Sessions
Gather around as Elders and Knowledge Keepers share oral traditions and legends passed down through centuries. Drumming and singing sessions provide a powerful and moving glimpse into Ojibwe spirituality and music.

✅ Shop for Authentic Indigenous Handmade Goods
Support local artists by visiting the on-site gift shop, where you can purchase handmade jewelry, art, and traditional crafts, ensuring you take home a meaningful souvenir.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation is located in M’Chigeeng First Nation, about 15 minutes west of Little Current.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: From Little Current, take Highway 540 west for approximately 15 km (9 miles). The foundation is well-marked along the road.
• By Bicycle: The scenic ride from Little Current to M’Chigeeng offers beautiful countryside views.

🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking is available.

Local Tip

🖼 Best Experience: Visit during a seasonal festival or special event to experience traditional dancing, drumming circles, and storytelling performances firsthand.

6. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures at Misery Bay Provincial Park

For nature lovers, Misery Bay Provincial Park is a hidden gem offering stunning coastal landscapes, peaceful hiking trails, and unique geological formations. Located on the southwestern shore of Manitoulin Island, this protected natural area is home to rare limestone alvars, wetlands, and diverse wildlife.

Misery Bay is an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, and photography, with well-maintained trails leading through forests, meadows, and rugged shorelines. Whether you're looking for a short scenic stroll or a longer backcountry adventure, this park provides a serene escape into nature.

Things to Do at Misery Bay Provincial Park

✅ Hike Through Scenic Nature Trails
✅ Spot Rare Birds & Wildlife
✅ Explore the Unique Limestone Alvars
✅ Enjoy a Peaceful Lakeside Picnic
✅ Take Stunning Photographs of the Rugged Landscape

Local Tip

⏰ Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the best seasons for hiking, as the weather is cooler, and you'll see wildflowers or vibrant autumn colors.

7. Experience Little Current – The Island's Vibrant Hub

Little Current is the gateway to Manitoulin Island, known for its charming waterfront, historic swing bridge, and vibrant local culture. As the largest town on the island, it serves as a bustling hub for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're arriving via the iconic Little Current Swing Bridge, docking your boat at the marina, or exploring the town’s cozy streets, Little Current is full of energy and small-town charm.

Here, you’ll find fantastic local dining, artisan shops, and cultural experiences, as well as plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the North Channel. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal, staying overnight, or using Little Current as your base for Manitoulin adventures, this vibrant town is a must-visit on your island itinerary.

Things to Do in Little Current

✅ Walk Along the Waterfront & Marina
Little Current’s scenic waterfront is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, watch boats sail in and out, or simply relax by the water. The North Channel is world-renowned for boating and yachting, making the marina a lively place to explore.

✅ Visit the Iconic Little Current Swing Bridge
One of the town’s most famous landmarks, the Little Current Swing Bridge, was built in 1913 and is the only road access to Manitoulin Island. Watch as it opens for boat traffic every hour and marvel at this engineering wonder that has stood for over a century.

✅ Explore Local Shops & Art Galleries
Downtown Little Current is home to a variety of boutique shops and art galleries where you can browse for handmade Indigenous crafts, jewelry, and island souvenirs. Stop by the Loco Beanz Café for a locally brewed coffee before heading to the shops.

✅ Enjoy a Delicious Meal at a Waterfront Restaurant
From fresh Lake Huron whitefish to locally sourced burgers, Little Current offers excellent dining options with beautiful water views. Visit Anchor Inn Hotel or Elliott’s Restaurant for a meal featuring locally inspired flavors.

✅ Attend the Haweater Weekend Festival (If You’re Visiting in August)
Every summer, Little Current hosts Haweater Weekend, a lively festival celebrating Manitoulin’s local culture. Enjoy live music, parades, fireworks, and a famous "Haweater Burger", named after the island’s native hawberries.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
Little Current is located on the northeastern tip of Manitoulin Island, acting as the main entry point via the Swing Bridge.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: Drive from Sudbury via Highway 6, crossing the Little Current Swing Bridge to enter the island.
• By Boat: Little Current is a popular marina stop for boaters sailing through the North Channel.

🚗 Parking: Free street parking and marina docking are available.

Local Tip

⏰ Best Time to Visit: Arrive just before the bridge opens (on the hour) to watch the swing bridge in action—it’s a local tradition.

8. Camp on the Beautiful Benjamin Islands

For those seeking true wilderness and tranquility, the Benjamin Islands are a secluded paradise perfect for camping, kayaking, and starry nights. Located in the North Channel of Lake Huron, these islands are famous for their smooth pink granite rock formations, quiet anchorages, and unspoiled nature.

Whether you're looking to camp under the stars, paddle through crystal-clear waters, or simply disconnect from the modern world, the Benjamin Islands offer a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience.

Things to Do on the Benjamin Islands

✅ Camp Under a Star-Filled Sky
The islands provide some of the best backcountry camping in Ontario. Set up your tent on the smooth granite rocks, listen to the gentle lapping waves, and enjoy one of the darkest, clearest night skies you’ll ever see.

✅ Kayak or Paddleboard Around the Islands
The calm waters of the North Channel make this an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Explore the hidden coves and untouched shorelines, and keep an eye out for bald eagles and other wildlife.

✅ Go Swimming in Crystal-Clear Waters
Take a dip in the refreshing, clean waters of Lake Huron. The water around the Benjamin Islands is incredibly clear, making it a great place for snorkeling and exploring underwater rock formations.

✅ Hike & Explore Unique Rock Formations
The pink granite shorelines, shaped by ancient glaciers, provide stunning views and fantastic hiking opportunities. Climb to elevated spots for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding islands.

✅ Watch the Northern Lights
If you’re lucky, the dark skies and remote location of the Benjamin Islands make this an excellent place to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis dancing over the horizon.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
The Benjamin Islands are located off the northern coast of Manitoulin Island in the North Channel.

🛶 How to Get There:

• By Boat: The islands are only accessible by boat, so you’ll need to charter a vessel from Little Current or take your own.
• By Kayak: Experienced paddlers can reach the islands by kayaking from a nearby marina.

🚤 Docking & Camping: There are no designated campgrounds, so it’s wild camping only—be prepared to bring everything you need.

Local Tip

🔥 Leave No Trace: Since there are no facilities, practice responsible camping—pack out all trash and leave the island as pristine as you found it.

9. Go Fishing in Lake Manitou & Lake Huron

Fishing on Manitoulin Island is an unparalleled experience, with its vast network of pristine freshwater lakes and deep, fish-rich waters of Lake Huron. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisher, the island offers abundant fishing spots for catching pike, bass, salmon, trout, walleye, and more.

With over 100 inland lakes, including Lake Manitou, Lake Mindemoya, and Kagawong Lake, as well as miles of untouched shoreline along Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island is a fisherman’s paradise. The island's waters are teeming with a variety of fish species, and fishing here is not just a sport but a way of life for many locals. Whether you prefer shore fishing, boat fishing, or ice fishing in winter, the opportunities are endless.

Best Fishing Spots & What You Can Catch

✅ Lake Manitou – The Largest Freshwater Lake on an Island
At 104 square kilometers, Lake Manitou is the largest lake on Manitoulin Island and a prime location for fishing. This lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and healthy fish populations, including northern pike, smallmouth bass, and perch. The serene surroundings make it a great spot for a peaceful day of fishing.

✅ Lake Huron – Deep Waters & Trophy Fish
If you're looking for big game fishing, Lake Huron is the place to go. The deep waters and cold currents support a variety of fish, including salmon, lake trout, walleye, and whitefish. Many charter companies operate from South Baymouth and Little Current, offering guided fishing excursions for those looking to land a trophy catch.

✅ Mindemoya Lake – A Local Favorite
Known for its excellent rainbow trout and whitefish population, Mindemoya Lake is a great location for fly fishing or trolling. The shallow waters around Treasure Island, the lake’s small island, provide excellent fishing opportunities year-round.

✅ Kagawong Lake – A Hidden Gem
Less crowded than some of the other lakes, Kagawong Lake is a top spot for bass and northern pike fishing. The peaceful setting and abundant fish stocks make it perfect for a relaxed day on the water.

✅ South Baymouth – The Best Spot for Salmon Fishing
If you’re interested in salmon fishing, South Baymouth is the best place to start your adventure. Located on the southern coast of Manitoulin, this area is a hotspot for anglers looking to catch Chinook and Coho salmon.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:

• Lake Manitou is centrally located on Manitoulin Island.
• Lake Huron fishing spots are easily accessible from South Baymouth, Little Current, and Providence Bay.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: The lakes and fishing points are easily accessible via Highway 540 and Highway 6, with well-marked signs leading to boat launches.
• By Boat: If you have your own boat, there are several public boat launches and marinas around the island, including South Baymouth, Gore Bay, and Meldrum Bay.

🚤 Boat Rentals & Charters:

• Guided fishing charters are available at South Baymouth and Little Current.
• Kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats can be rented at various outfitters around the island.

Local Tip

🎣 Best Time to Fish:

• Spring & Summer: Best for bass, pike, and perch.
• Fall: Prime season for salmon and trout as they migrate.
• Winter: Try ice fishing on Lake Manitou or Lake Mindemoya!

🐟 Bonus Tip: If you're fishing in Lake Manitou, ask locals about the best bait for pike—they know the secrets to landing the biggest catch!

10. Stargaze at Gordon's Park Dark Sky Preserve

For an unforgettable celestial experience, head to Gordon’s Park Dark Sky Preserve, one of the best stargazing locations in Canada. Officially designated as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, this park offers crystal-clear views of the Milky Way, constellations, meteor showers, and even the Northern Lights.

Located away from artificial light pollution, Gordon’s Park provides a breathtaking window into the cosmos. Whether you’re a casual stargazer or an astronomy enthusiast, this spot offers the perfect setting for night sky observation. With telescopes, guided star tours, and overnight camping options, Gordon’s Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to witness the beauty of the night sky.

Things to Do at Gordon's Park

✅ Join an Astronomy Night with Expert Guides
Attend a guided stargazing event, where astronomy experts use powerful telescopes to help you explore distant galaxies, planets, and nebulae. Learn about Indigenous star lore, the phases of the moon, and how to navigate the night sky.

✅ See the Milky Way Like Never Before
Thanks to the pristine, dark conditions, the Milky Way stretches across the sky in full detail, allowing you to see stars, cosmic dust clouds, and planets with the naked eye. The park’s elevated terrain offers an unobstructed 360-degree view, making it one of the best stargazing locations in Ontario.

✅ Watch a Meteor Shower in Peak Season
Plan your visit around a meteor shower, such as the Perseids in August or the Geminids in December, for a spectacular show of shooting stars. Lay back, relax, and watch dozens of meteors streak across the sky every hour.

✅ Camp Overnight for a Full Dark Sky Experience
For the ultimate experience, stay overnight at Gordon’s Park’s eco-friendly campsites. Set up your tent beneath the stars, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature while enjoying a night of uninterrupted stargazing.

✅ Try Astrophotography
If you’re a photographer, bring your camera and tripod to capture stunning long-exposure shots of the Milky Way, star trails, and even the Northern Lights when conditions are right. The clarity and darkness of the sky make this an ideal place for astrophotography.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Location:
Gordon’s Park Dark Sky Preserve is located off Highway 6, south of Tehkummah, approximately 25 minutes from South Baymouth.

🛣 How to Get There:

• By Car: From South Baymouth, drive north on Highway 6 for about 20 kilometers, then follow signs for Gordon’s Park.
• By Bicycle: The route is bike-friendly, offering scenic countryside views along the way.

🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors and overnight campers.

Local Tip

🌠 Best Time to Visit:

• Visit during a new moon for the darkest skies and best stargazing conditions.
• August & September are ideal for mild temperatures and clearer skies.

🔭 Bonus Tip: Bring a red-light flashlight instead of a regular one—this helps preserve night vision while allowing you to navigate safely in the dark.

Why You Should Visit Manitoulin Island

From stunning waterfalls and scenic hikes to rich indigenous culture and serene beaches, Manitoulin Island is a must-visit destination in Ontario, Canada. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a traveler looking for relaxation, this island has something special for everyone.

Ready to explore this hidden paradise? Pack your bags and experience Manitoulin Island’s magic firsthand.‍