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Sightseeing & Nature

Parks, Conservation Areas and Wilderness Parks in and Around Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is full of city parks and conservation lands, and surrounded by provincial parks and wilderness destinations that showcase the region’s natural beauty, outdoor recreation and northern spirit. From family-friendly urban green spaces and scenic waterfront parks to waterfalls, ancient canyons and world-class backcountry adventures, there is no shortage of places to explore.

With city strolls, family adventures, birdwatching, waterfall hikes, paddling routes and true northern wilderness, Thunder Bay’s parks and protected spaces offer unforgettable experiences in every season.

City Parks and Urban Green Spaces

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Boulevard Lake Park

A beloved recreational destination surrounding Boulevard Lake with beaches, playgrounds, paddle rentals, picnic areas, paved trails, disc golf, mini-putt and the historic Black Bay Bridge. This expansive park is a favourite for families and active visitors year-round.

Centennial Botanical Conservatory
A lush indoor tropical oasis in the heart of the city, open year-round and home to exotic plants, seasonal floral displays and peaceful gardens.
Centennial Park

A unique wilderness-style city park along the Current River, with trails for hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing, a recreated 1910 logging camp, farm animals, playground and the famous Muskeg Express mini-train through the beautiful forest.

Chippewa Park
One of Thunder Bay’s most treasured historic parks, located on Lake Superior with sandy beaches, camping, RV facilities, a heritage carousel, waterfront cabins and family attractions.
Hillcrest Park
Known for one of the city’s best views of the Sleeping Giant and harbour, Hillcrest Park has flower gardens, a war memorial, playgrounds and picnic areas.
Marina Park
Thunder Bay’s vibrant waterfront gathering space with walking trails, public art, marina access, event spaces, and exceptional Lake Superior views.
Prince Arthur's Landing
Located within Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing is an award-winning waterfront destination with a splash pad skating rink, skatepark, playgrounds, restaurants, festivals, and an artisan market in the original CN railway station.
Soroptimist International Friendship Gardens
A peaceful park celebrating Thunder Bay’s multicultural heritage with monuments, gardens, walking trails and reflective spaces.
Trowbridge Falls Park
Set along the Current River, this park has cascading rapids, camping, RV sites, playground and sports field. Trowbridge Forest is an extensive trail system that is used year-round for mountain/fat biking, skiing, snowshoeing, running and walking.
Vickers Park

A historic green space in Fort William featuring mature trees, gardens, playgrounds and seasonal skating. Don’t miss the annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic that takes place here in early July!

Waverley Park
One of Ontario’s oldest municipal parks, known for towering trees, historic monuments, gardens and a beautifully restored lookout.
Dog Parks and Off-Leash Areas
Hillyard Lands Dog Park, Beverly Street Dog Park, Neebing Playfield Dog Park and Centennial Park Leash-Free Area are dedicated spaces for canine visitors and residents.

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority Conservation Areas

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Cascades Conservation Area
A local favourite within city limits featuring waterfalls, accessible trails, and forested pathways makes it one of Thunder Bay’s most popular nature escapes.
Cedar Falls Conservation Area
A peaceful natural area known for its picturesque waterfall and short scenic hiking opportunities.
Hazelwood Lake Conservation Area
A year-round, family-friendly outdoor recreation destination with trails for hiking or snowshoeing, and an inland lake for swimming, paddling, and fishing.
Little Trout Bay Conservation Area
A quiet Lake Superior access point with boat launches, paddling and shoreline exploration.
MacKenzie Point Conservation Area

A striking granite outcrop along Lake Superior, ideal for sunrise viewing, photography and shoreline relaxation. Insider Tip: A great spot for checking out the Northern Lights!

Mills Block Forest
A mixed forest landscape, part of a designated Provincially Significant Wetland, featuring hiking trails, wildlife viewing and diverse ecosystems.
Mission Island Marsh Conservation Area
An urban wetland featuring an AODA-compliant, paved, wheelchair-accessible loop trail. boardwalks, birdwatching, multiple ecosystems and stunning Sleeping Giant views.
Silver Harbour Conservation Area

A Lake Superior access point popular for boating, fishing and winter recreation. 

Wishart Forest
A boreal forest conservation area offering peaceful hiking, snowshoeing and northern woodland scenery. Great for forest-bathing!

Provincial Parks Near Thunder Bay

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Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park
Home to the “Niagara of the North,” this park features one of Ontario’s most dramatic waterfalls, scenic boardwalks, seasonal camping and hiking trails. Open year-round .
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
One of Ontario’s most iconic parks, with over 100 kilometres of trails, the legendary Top of the Giant hike, seasonal camping, cabins, wildlife viewing and unmatched vistas. Open year-round.
Pigeon River Provincial Park
A day-use park featuring waterfalls, dramatic gorge views and the historic Ontario-Minnesota border.
Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park
A geological wonder with towering canyon walls, accessible viewing platforms and rare arctic plant species. Open mid-May to end of October.

Wildlife and Birding Areas

McKellar Island Bird Observatory
A premier birding location for migratory species and ecological education.
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Thunder Cape Bird Observatory
A remarkable birdwatching destination east of Thunder Bay, located at the southern tip of the Sibley Peninsula. The season typically runs from late April to early June and from August 1 to October 30.
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