Summer Information For Thunder Bay In Ontario






Jul 5, 08

Thunder Bay
Ontario

A Long History in Paradise

Thunder Bay's early inhabitants, the Paleo-Indians, can be traced back almost 11,000 years from artifacts such as spear points and axe heads. Europeans didn't arrive on the scene until the 17th century.

French-speaking explorers translated the local Indian name for the area "Animikie," meaning thunder, to "Baie de Tonnerre" or Thunder Bay. Today Thunder Bay is Ontario's 10th largest city and one of the country's largest ports. It is the Atlantic seaport for western Canada.

A Water Wonderland

Here on the shores of Lake Superior, and with countless inland rivers and lakes, this city offers endless opportunities for recreational endeavors. Fishing, canoeing, boating, kayaking and sailing can all be enjoyed in and around Thunder Bay. For those in the mood for exploring the waters further, scuba diving will reveal some interesting wrecks.

Fishing enthusiasts will find an angler's paradise; fish for walleye, salmon, trout and more. Whether it's a quiet lake, a river bank or the middle of Lake Superior, the fishing is great. The region is well stocked, and there are many fishing derbies.

Hikers and bikers will find an extensive network of trails and almost 4,000 acres of greenspace within the city limits to explore and enjoy. Mountain climbing, rock hounding and wildlife viewing also are popular in the region. The flat-topped mountains of the Nor'Wester range are just a stone's throw away.

Numerous Parks

Several provincial parks in the area offer a variety of activities, including swimming, picnicking, hiking, bicycling and camping.

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is named for one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Canada. Hiking trails allow visitors to explore this picturesque region. Other hiking areas include Sleeping Giant, Ouimet Canyon and Middle Falls provincial parks.

A variety of events fill the summer months. A Taste of Old Fort William, the world's largest fur trading post, the Ontario Society of Artists Juried Exhibition, Canada Day Celebrations and Harbourfest are just a sampling of the excitement the area has to offer summer visitors.

Deer Valley Resort