Nestled between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, Sault Ste. Marie is where the wild beauty of Northern Ontario meets unforgettable adventure.
From mountain biking and kayaking to fishing, scenic boat cruises, incredible train journeys, summer festivals, farmers markets, and top dining and accommodations, it’s no surprise that Sault Ste. Marie ranks among the best places to visit in Ontario.
Here’s a look at some of the amazing experiences waiting for you in the Sault this summer.
Take a one-in-a-lifetime trip on the Agawa Train
You’ve seen the photos, and you’ve been meaning to ride it, but make this year the time you finally check it off your list!
The Agawa Canyon Tour Train leaves in the morning from Downtown Sault Ste. Marie, and stretches over 100 miles north through the pristine wildlife and rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield, stopping at the breathtaking Agawa Canyon Park, where a lookout hike and some truly spectacular views await. Once arrived, visitors have 75 minutes to explore, before the train returns to the Sault in the evening, making it the perfect full-day trip for families.
On your way, enjoy comfortable seats, tour commentary, and scenery like you’ve never experienced before. Tickets are on sale now, and the tour season begins August 1. Be sure to book soon, as spots fill up fast on this once-in-a-lifetime ride.
Experience the Soo Locks on a riverboat cruise
Looking to experience the power and history of the St. Marys River, complete with massive freighters and fascinating engineering, in comfort? Look no further than Miss Marie Sault Lock Tours. The Miss Marie offers an amazing one-of-a-kind water cruise experience, navigating the historic Canadian lock system to Lake Superior, and back through to the heart of Downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
On your way, view the spectacular history and sheer feats of engineering behind the Sault Locks, a historic waterway which serves as the linchpin between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Enjoy a relaxing ride on a gorgeous vessel and maybe even meet some new friends along the way.
Tours begin May 23 and run daily through the morning to early afternoon. Looking for something a bit more upscale? Miss Marie offers private boat charters, packages for groups, as well as weddings and corporate events.
Best-in-class mountain biking
The Sault is increasingly known as the single-best destination for mountain biking in all of Ontario––yes, you heard that right. At the centre of this glowing reputation lies the Hiawatha Highlands Mountain Bike Trails. This network of pristine trails, located just north of the Sault proper, offers over 60 km of trails, with something for everyone from beginner bikers to more experienced riders.
For competitive riders and enthusiasts, Hiawatha is host two notable events:
Skeeter Slam – Ontario Cup #4 (June 28–29, 2025)
This exciting weekend-long event is part of the Ontario Cup Mountain Bike Race Series and draws racers from across the province. Events include a 45-km XC Marathon, short track racing, and youth competitions—perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. Hosted by the Sault Cycling Club, Skeeter Slam offers a professionally run race experience right in the heart of the Highlands. More details here.
Salty Marie Trails Fest (July 25–27, 2025)
Hosted by Red Pine Tours, this three-day event features both mountain biking and trail running races designed for all skill levels. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned athlete, it’s a fun and welcoming way to experience the trails and community spirit of the Sault.
Discover some of the best beaches in Ontario
Sault Ste. Marie has some of Ontario’s best-kept secrets in the form of pristine beaches dotted all along the Lake Superior coastline.
For ultimate summer vibes, take a trip north to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park, or Pancake Bay Provincial Park, and relax with a swim, rent a kayak, have a picnic, or simply unwind. At Point Des Chenes Park, a city-run beach popular for its sand and sunset views, relax where the St. Marys River meets Lake Superior, and watch ships pass by on crystal-clear water and head toward the Soo Locks.
Looking for something on the adventurous side? Check out the Gros Cap Bluffs, where steep cliffs rise from Lake Superior and make for a thrilling hike, and––if you know where to look––hidden beaches.
Plan your next beach destination here.
Looking for something a little more chill?
Maybe mountain biking, train adventures, and a boat cruise aren’t for you? No problem! The Sault also offers some amazing activities for those of us who prefer the pace a bit more slow.
There are some truly amazing opportunities for urban hiking in the Sault, including:
- The 22.5 km John Roswell Hub Trail, open to both bikers and hikers, weaves through Sault Ste. Marie, connecting popular neighbourhoods, the waterfront, commercial shopping areas, and some of the city's most popular restaurants and bars — offering a unique way to explore the city at your own pace.
- The 3 km trail system on Whitefish Island — a National Historic Site and traditional land of the Batchewana First Nation — winds through the St. Marys River near the Soo Locks and offers stunning, photo-worthy views of the surrounding waterways and wildlife.
- Bellevue Park is a stunning 17 hectare urban park featuring some wonderful greenery and scenic strolls.
- Crystal Falls at Kinsmen Park offers some stunning viewing platforms of the water right in the heart of the Hiawatha Highlands.
- Wishart Park, located in the Hiawatha Highlands, is a quiet nature spot ideal for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, especially during spring and fall migrations.
Consider yourself a history buff? The Sault has some great museums that showcase both its European and Indigenous roots.
- The Sault Ste. Marie Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday and offers great locally-sourced exhibits, and programming for all ages
- Curious about local aviation history? Check out the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, featuring a historic collection of 24 classic aircraft and many interactive exhibits
- Explore Sault Ste. Marie’s rich Métis history with a walking or paddling tour of the city led by a Métis interpretive guide, and be sure to visit the Heritage Discovery Centre at the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic site to learn more about the region’s cultural roots.
There’s no end in sight for the amazing things you can see in the Sault this summer. Incredible camping, top-tier fishing, outstanding dining experiences, and premier accommodations all await. Check out the SSM Festival of Beer on June 14, Queen Street Cruise on June 20 and June 21, and Rotary Fest that runs from July 17 to July 19. A complete list of events can be found here.
To plan your ultimate Sault Ste. Marie summer escape, visit Tourism Sault Ste. Marie.