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Across the water from Thunder Bay, a long peninsula pushes into Lake Superior, and most of it belongs to this provincial park. Seen from the city across the water, its long mesa-like ridge resembles a figure lying on its back, a shape tied to the Ojibwe story of Nanabijou. Boreal forest, inland lakes and some of the tallest cliffs in Ontario make up the terrain.
Hiking is the main draw. The climb to the Top of the Giant is a long, demanding day, rewarded by sheer drops and wide views over Superior and its islands. The Kabeyun Trail traces the shoreline beneath the cliffs, passing coves and pebble beaches, while the campground on Marie Louise Lake makes a comfortable base for shorter walks, paddling and wildlife sightings. At the peninsula's tip, Silver Islet recalls a short-lived silver boom, and volunteers at Thunder Cape Bird Observatory track migrating birds each spring and fall.
The park suits hikers and campers who are happy with long trail days and changeable lake weather. Thunder Bay offers easy side trips: Kakabeka Falls on the Kaministiquia River, the deep chasm of Ouimet Canyon, the reconstructed fur-trade post at Fort William Historical Park and the Terry Fox Scenic Lookout. Summer and early fall bring the most reliable hiking conditions.
WiserMap travel guideSleeping Giant Provincial Park Ontario Top of the Giant HikeExplore Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay: Top of the Giant, Silver Islet, Lake Superior views, Ouimet Canyon, Kakabeka Falls and when to go.Read the guide
The chain of mesas and cliffs on the Sibley Peninsula that looks like a giant lying on its back in Lake Superior, the park's namesake. Ojibwe legend connects it to Nanabijou. The best full view is from across the water in Thunder Bay or from Hillcrest Park.
A strenuous trail that climbs to the top of the Giant's chest, ending at cliffs about 240 metres above Lake Superior with one of the best views in Ontario. The round trip from the trailhead is roughly 22 km. Start early, carry plenty of water and stay back from the edges.
The park's longest trail, running about 40 km along the Lake Superior shore from Thunder Cape to the south end of the peninsula. It links cobble beaches, coves and backcountry campsites and gives access to the Top of the Giant. Many hikers do short sections as day trips.
A sheltered cove on the Kabeyun Trail at the foot of the Giant, with backcountry campsites and close views of the towering cliffs. It is a common overnight base for the climb to the Top of the Giant. Reserve backcountry sites ahead in summer and pack out all garbage.
A rock arch of diabase on the shore near the start of the Kabeyun Trail that once looked like a sea lion before its head eroded away. It is a short, easy walk of about 2.5 km return from the trailhead. Combine it with a stop in Silver Islet on the same road.
The large inland lake at the centre of the park, ringed by the main campground, a beach, picnic areas and the visitor centre. A loop trail and road circle it. Look for moose and deer in the early morning or evening, and bring bug spray in June and July.
A long sandy beach on Lake Superior reached by an easy trail of about 2.5 km each way from the Kabeyun area road. It is quiet, with views of the Giant's cliffs across the water. The water is cold all summer, so bring layers and watch the weather.
A quiet cobble and sand bay on the Kabeyun Trail below the western cliffs of the Giant, with backcountry campsites and a junction for the Top of the Giant trail. It is a good rest stop on the long hike. Water must be filtered, and black bears are present, so hang food.
A metal viewing platform that juts out over a cliff edge about 150 metres above Lake Superior, with views west to Thunder Bay and nearby islands. It sits at the end of a rough gravel road off Highway 587. Drive slowly and avoid the road in wet conditions.
A small research station at the tip of the Sibley Peninsula where volunteers band migrating birds in spring and fall. It lies at the far end of the Kabeyun Trail and is only reachable on foot. Check opening times first, as staff are present only in migration season.
The park's main visitor centre beside Marie Louise Lake, with exhibits on the geology, wildlife and Ojibwe stories of the Sibley Peninsula, plus trail maps and staff who can advise on conditions. Stop here first to buy permits and check which trails are open.
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