Sault Ste. Marie: Cultural History and Trails
Accommodation in Sault Ste. Marie
When planning a trip to Sault Ste. Marie, several interests come together: cultural history at historic sites, hands-on learning opportunities at museums, and activities on hiking, cycling, or paddling trails. Consider which of these themes will shape your stay.
Canal History and Cultural Sites
The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site was built in 1895. Its lock was the first to be powered by electricity. This makes the canal a specific place to visit if you are interested in the city’s technological history.
The Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site is a year-round cultural attraction for residents and visitors to Sault Ste. Marie. It offers historic culinary experiences at the hearth in the historic Summer Kitchen. Availability may vary by season; check for your travel dates. On John Street, the Sault Ste Marie MĂ©tis Heritage Centre preserves the history and culture of the local MĂ©tis community.
Museums with Hands-On Learning Opportunities
The Sault Ste. Marie Museum is downtown; a city bus stops right outside. If you are traveling by bus, check current transit conditions before your trip.
The Discovery Gallery at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum is a fun, interactive learning space where children learn by doing. At the Bushplane Museum, the Children’s Learning Centre offers hands-on learning experiences for children of all ages, with arcade-style game consoles, interactive exhibits, and enclosed cockpits from real aircraft.
Trails for Hiking, Cycling, and Cross-Country Skiing
Sault Ste. Marie has trails for hiking, cycling, and paddling. The John Rowswell Hub Trail is a popular, family-friendly, multi-use trail and a 22.5-kilometre loop in the city. Its designated loop format and length give you specific details for route planning.
Hiawatha Highlands has trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing. Parking near the clubhouse on Landslide Road gives hikers access to Crystal Falls. Check local access information before your outing. Visitors can walk the trails on Whitefish Island. The island is a historic gathering place where Anishinaabe communities have met for generations.
Paddling and Boat Passage
The paddling route on the St. Marys River is 1 to 10 kilometres long and rated easy. Water conditions vary seasonally; take this into account when planning. The stated distance range provides a specific guide when weighing the route against other activities during your stay.
Boaters can travel through the Sault Ste. Marie Canal in the city centre on the St. Marys River, enjoying the scenic views and historic surroundings. Passage is seasonal. Check current lock conditions before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Algoma Mills, Michipicoten, Bruce Mines, Thessalon, Richards Landing, Elliot Lake, Blind River, Iron Bridge
For the broader travel overview: Algoma District.
