Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Thunder Bay
Iconic Ontario park with dramatic cliffs, challenging hikes, and stunning Lake Superior views. A must-visit for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Thunder Bay
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Ontario park with dramatic cliffs, challenging hikes, and stunning Lake Superior views. A must-visit for nature lovers.
"The views from the top are surreal. A wonderful day at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park!!"
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for all trails, especially 'Top of the Giant.' Long pants/sleeves recommended for bug protection.
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Especially crucial during summer months. Consider long sleeves and pants for added protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Top of the Giant Trail
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Epic 22km round-trip hike with sheer cliffs and breathtaking Lake Superior views. A true Ontario adventure!
Sea Lion Trail
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Beginner-friendly 2km loop offering stunning views of the iconic Sea Lion rock formation and crystal-clear waters.
Thunder Bay Lookout
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Panoramic vistas of the park and Lake Superior. Perfect for capturing dramatic photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Marie Louise Lookout
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Offers a fantastic vantage point to see the full 'Sleeping Giant' formation from the campground area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Optimal Experience
Essential Gear for the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for all trails, especially 'Top of the Giant.' Long pants/sleeves recommended for bug protection.
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Especially crucial during summer months. Consider long sleeves and pants for added protection.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is very spotty within the park. Plan your routes ahead of time.
📸 Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Hike for sunrise or sunset for incredible lighting and photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for all trails, especially 'Top of the Giant.' Long pants/sleeves recommended for bug protection.
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Especially crucial during summer months. Consider long sleeves and pants for added protection.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is very spotty within the park. Plan your routes ahead of time.
📸 Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Hike for sunrise or sunset for incredible lighting and photo opportunities.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on longer hikes. Bring snacks too, especially for the 'Top of the Giant' trek.
🚗 Day Trip from Toronto?
Possible via Porter Airlines to Thunder Bay, then a drive to the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sleeping Giant Provincial Park for its spectacular natural beauty and challenging hikes, particularly the 'Top of the Giant' trail. The stunning views of Lake Superior and unique geological formations are major highlights. Some reviewers note the lack of cell service and the prevalence of bugs during certain seasons as minor drawbacks.
"An experience to remember, like no other 🙌
We did the Top of the Giant trail - 1 adult, 3 kids (11 -15). We are fairly experienced hikers and did not find the trail overly challenging but would highly recommended good footwear and long pants/sleeves and or bug spray. The views from the top are surreal. We completed the hike in just over 5 hours - walking at a steady pace. On the way out of the park (around dusk) we saw a few deer 🦌 and a fox 🦊. A wonderful day at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park!!"
J LA
"Truly spectacular! Lots of trails and lookout points. You can get a great view of the Sleeping Giant from Marie Louise lookout. The campground had clean comfort station. Coin laundry on-site $4. Note: there is no cell service in the park and some surrounding areas. If you do, it's very spotty."
Thea
"What a fantastic way to end camping for 2024! We booked a weekend at the park and were fortunate to land site #206, a waterfront spot on Lake Marie Louise. The site is spacious yet private, with easy lake access, a fire pit, and incredible views. Potable water and a vault toilet were only steps away. On this crisp, sunny fall weekend we enjoyed 3 short hikes with our little dog (The Cemetery trail, the iconic Sea Lion trail, and Middlebrun Bay - gorgeous!). We also made the very short trip to Silver islet. Sleeping Giant provincial park does not disappoint! There is so much to do and so much nature to enjoy in all her glory."
Jacalyn Cop-Rasmussen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is located about an hour's drive east of Thunder Bay. Take Highway 17 East and follow the signs for the park entrance. The drive offers scenic views along Lake Superior.
Yes, it's possible! You can take a direct flight from Toronto Island Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport via Porter Airlines, then drive to the park. The total travel time can be significant, but it allows for a full day of hiking.
From the Toronto area, the drive is approximately 14-15 hours. It's often broken up with stops, such as Pancake Bay Provincial Park.
Highways are generally well-maintained, but conditions can vary with weather. Always check road conditions before departing, especially outside of summer months.
There are no shuttle services within the park. You will need your own vehicle to access different trailheads and areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a daily vehicle permit fee for entry into Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Fees vary based on the season and vehicle type. Check the Ontario Parks website for current pricing.
Absolutely! The park offers various camping options, including drive-in sites, waterfront sites, and cabins. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is generally open year-round for day use, but specific facilities and services may have seasonal hours. Check the Ontario Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
It's highly recommended to book camping sites as far in advance as possible, especially for waterfront or popular sites, as they fill up quickly.
Ontario Parks sometimes offers discounts or passes for frequent visitors. Check their official website for any available programs or promotions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 'Top of the Giant' trail is the most challenging and rewarding, offering spectacular views. For easier options, the Sea Lion Trail and Middlebrun Bay trails are excellent choices.
The 'Top of the Giant' trail is approximately 22 km round trip and can take 6-9 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. +1
Cell service is very limited and often non-existent within the park and surrounding areas. It's advisable to download offline maps and inform someone of your hiking plans.
Visitors have reported seeing deer and foxes. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other forest wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Thunder Bay Lookout and the summit of the 'Top of the Giant' trail offer incredible panoramic views. The Sea Lion formation is also a popular subject. 
Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting for stunning landscape photography. The changing light can create breathtaking scenes.
No, even a smartphone camera can capture amazing shots. Many visitors share impressive photos taken with iPhones, with no editing needed.
Drone usage may be restricted in provincial parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest regulations with Ontario Parks before flying.
Expect dramatic cliff faces, expansive views of Lake Superior, unique rock formations like the Sea Lion, and lush forest scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children or teens, the 'Top of the Giant' trail can be a rewarding challenge, but ensure everyone is prepared for the length and terrain. Consider camping at the park for a more immersive experience. Waterfront sites on Lake Marie Louise offer easy access for supervised play.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Adventurers
+1 The reward is immense: unparalleled views from the highest cliffs in the province. Beyond the main attraction, explore the park's extensive network of over 100 km of trails. Consider combining shorter hikes or tackling less-trafficked routes for a more solitary adventure.
The dramatic landscapes and rugged terrain offer a true wilderness experience. Remember to check trail conditions, pack essential safety gear, and inform someone of your itinerary due to limited cell service. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't underestimate the power of your smartphone camera here; many stunning, unedited photos are shared by visitors.
Be prepared for changing light conditions and consider bringing a tripod for low-light shots during dawn and dusk. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conquering the 'Top of the Giant' Trail
+1Preparation is key for this hike. Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and snacks. Many visitors recommend wearing long pants and sleeves or using strong insect repellent, especially during the summer months, to ward off bugs.
Pro-tip: Consider hiking for sunrise or sunset. The changing light conditions create dramatic and breathtaking photographic opportunities.
Exploring the Park's Diverse Trails
This trail is perfect for families or those looking for a shorter, scenic walk. For a more relaxed experience, trails like the Cemetery Trail and Middlebrun Bay offer beautiful scenery and are suitable for shorter outings, even with pets.
Whether you're seeking a strenuous challenge or a leisurely stroll, the park's trail network ensures there's an adventure for everyone. Always check trail conditions and be prepared for the terrain and weather.
Camping and Accommodation Options
For those seeking a more rustic experience, Sawyer Bay sites are available, offering proximity to the water and excellent views, especially for sunrise hikes.
Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during the peak summer season and on weekends, as popular sites can fill up quickly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit