How to use Kakabeka Falls as a basecamp to explore Thunder Bay

Did you know that Kakabeka Falls is Ontario’s second tallest waterfall?

Camp, hike, bike, and swim to your heart’s content next to a natural wonder.

The 40 m falls are the crown jewel of the appropriately named Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, a hub of family fun in northern Ontario.

And this year, we’re thrilled to announce improvements to the viewing platforms and boardwalks! Read on to learn how we’ve upgraded your access to these unparalleled views of the falls, and the historic Kaministiquia River and gorge below.

With the park’s convenient location just 30 minutes outside of Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls is the perfect basecamp from which to discover one of Ontario’s most dynamic and interesting northern cities.

Here’s why you need to check it out: 

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Where to snowshoe in Ontario Parks

Nature looks completely different under a glittering blanket of snow. Why not strap on some snowshoes and experience Ontario Parks in a whole new way this winter?

Check out some winter parks with top-notch snowshoeing opportunities:

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Fun for all at the Sleeping Giant Loppet

Today’s post comes from Peter Gallagher, coordinator of the annual Sleeping Giant Loppet.

Looking to ski your winter blues away?

The annual Sleeping Giant Loppet is a mass participation cross-country skiing festival on the spectacular trail system of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

The Loppet is a longstanding winter tradition for many northwestern Ontario families. Mark your calendars: the 44th edition of the event is on Saturday, March 4, 2023!

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Winter adventures at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

With its breathtaking, snow-covered landscapes and kilometres of ski trails for all skill levels, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park stands out in northwestern Ontario as a snowy paradise.

Here are four awesome reasons to visit this winter wonderland, only an hour east of Thunder Bay:

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December’s digital download

The best part of winter?

Mother Nature debuts her annual colour palette, with shades of blue, grey, green, and white painted across the province.

This month’s FREE digital download comes from Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Throughout 2022, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your  computers, tablets, smartphones, and Facebook covers.

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Batmobiles in the northwest!

Today’s post comes from Ontario Parks’ Northwest Zone.

Did you know that bats play important roles in our ecosystems and are unique in being the only type of mammals that can truly fly?

All bats in Ontario are nocturnal predators that feed primarily on insects like moths and mosquitoes. There are eight different bat species across Ontario, including three species at risk: Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, Eastern Small-footed Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat.

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Sleeping Giant’s new and improved Nanabosho Lookout Trail

Today’s post is from Christian Carl, Park Superintendent at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

I first noticed the prominent buttress on the northeast face of the Sleeping Giant’s chest while hiking the Kabeyun Trail in the spring of 2003.

More specifically, as I enjoyed a break on the sunny, south-facing shoreline of Sawyer Bay, my attention was drawn to a natural lookout on top of an arête (the point where two cliff faces meet).

I immediately imagined the stunning landscapes that would be revealed to hikers who ventured to this natural lookout on the chest of the towering Giant and contemplated how I might make my way up there to take a look for myself.

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7 iconic vistas of northwestern Ontario

Today’s post comes from Barb Rees, Discovery Program/Marketing Specialist with Ontario Parks’ Northwest Zone.

Ontario Parks is fortunate to be able to both protect and showcase an abundance of natural vistas across the province.

While some locations are relatively easy to access, others will challenge you before rewarding you with their amazing views.

Here are seven iconic vistas to discover and explore this season.

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March’s digital download

Warm weather will be here before you know it.

Get one last winter adventure in this March and get outside!

This month’s FREE digital download comes from Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Throughout 2022, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your computers, tablets, smartphones, and Facebook covers.

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The incredible legacy of Maw at Sleeping Giant

Today’s post comes from Rachelle Law, Discovery Leader at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Sleeping Giant is known for several things, one of them being our awe-inspiring views of the Sleeping Giant.

Another is our park cleaner nicknamed “Maw”, who retired from the park last year.

Working at the park for 39 years, Maw has become part of the true fabric of the park. She has left an extraordinary impact on the park, visitors and staff.

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