EARTH & WATER: The Unique Terrain of Northern Ontario

Northern Ontario is a landscape that is stunning in its extremes. Rocky cliffs emerge out of dense forest and give way to stretches of sandy beach along of the coast of Lake Superior. It is a landscape with something for everyone. Whether you like the excitement of rock climbing, or you prefer a gentle paddle on a quiet lake, Northern Ontario has what you are looking for. Come and discover it for yourself.

The oldest rock on Earth.
The most unique element of Northern Ontario’s terrain is the Canadian Shield. The ‘Shield’ as it is often called, is a large area of exposed rock that is over 2.5 billion years old. It was the first part of the continent to be permanently elevated above sea level.

Northern Ontario’s portion of the Canadian Shield is covered by boreal forest, characterized by dense strands of conifers and deciduous trees that can handle the cold, like birch, alder and mountain ash. This beautiful and rugged land has remained virtually untouched by civilization. Forests, mountains and lakes exist here as they have for millions of years.

Opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and camping abound in this pristine forest environment. All you really need to do is pick a trail or park and head out to enjoy the great outdoors.

Water to the horizon
Located at the centre of the Great Lakes and framed by the St. Marys River, Sault Ste. Marie is literally surrounded by water.

To the North of the city is Lake Superior or Gichigami (Big Water) as it is called in the Ojibwe language. The coast of Superior is dotted with long stretches of beautiful sandy beach, ideal for swimming or sunbathing.

To the southeast of Sault Ste. Marie is Lake Huron, the second largest of the Great lakes. The St. Marys River connects these two lakes via the Sault Locks, the busiest lock system in the world. The Locks allow over 120,000 ships per year to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. The rapids of the St. Marys River are located right in Sault Ste. Marie and make for great viewing and fishing!

Thousands of smaller lakes and rivers can be found all over Northern Ontario and offer unlimited opportunities for fishing, kayaking and canoeing.