Several years ago, I asked a friend of mine, a Sault ex-pat living in Toronto, whether Sault Ste. Marie was worth the trip. I expected him to suggest, even be nostalgic about, at least one great experience to be had from his hometown. So I was surprised at his response: “Don’t even bother, nothing to see.”
As a travel writer and photographer at Travelmammal.com, I’m always inspired to find and experience both what the destination and the journey have to offer. But admittedly, and somewhat reluctantly, I listened to my friend and took his advice. Years passed before I realized that we were both wrong: he for what he said, I for believing him.
On a recent visit, I discovered that the Sault was quite the opposite of what my friend had made me believe. A put-your-feet up, stay a while, enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours type of town with history, art, and gorgeous natural beauty to boot.
In fact, I discovered eight incredible experiences that made me love Sault Ste. Marie; eight that will inspire you to experience them for yourselves!
1. Train it
The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is incredible! From Sault. Ste. Marie, it heads north, deep into Canadian Shield country and inland to the Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park (ACWP) about 180 km away. The highlight along the way is the 130-foot-high, 1,500-foot-long curved Montreal River trestle. When the train reaches the park, you have 90 minutes to explore the 250-foot-high lookout, with trails that lead you to both the North and South Beaver Falls as well as the Bridal Veil Falls. It’s a must experience that combines both adventure and a picturesque beauty only this part of Canada can provide!
2. Swim it
With 300 campsites and a 3-km beach with Caribbean-style blue waters, Pancake Bay Provincial Park is a must experience. Sand-filled and shallow, it has some of the warmest water anywhere along Lake Superior. Nearby you’ll find Batchawana Bay, another fun-in-the-sun gem. Get a great view of the bay by driving south on route 563. It’s off Highway 17 between Pancake Bay and Batchawana Bay Provincial Parks. On a clear day, the views are beautiful. Stick around because as day turns into night, the sunsets will leave you speechless!