arrow-blue-right A Superior Living Experience

About Shuniah

Situated along the eastern border of Thunder Bay, the Municipality of Shuniah is a natural stop on your journey through Superior Country. Stretching along more than 40 kilometres of Lake Superior’s rugged northern shoreline, Shuniah was incorporated in 1873 and is one of Ontario’s oldest municipalities. The name “Shuniah” is rooted in the Ojibway word for silver, money, or coin, an acknowledgement of the rich silver mining in the region during the 19th century.

Shuniah is home to natural attractions such as the Silver Harbour Conservation Area and Wild Goose Beach. It is also the gateway to historical Silver Islet and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, an all-season outdoor enthusiast’s playground. If you find yourself in Shuniah during the winter season, be sure to visit Mount Baldy Ski Area, one of just two downhill facilities in the area. Mount Baldy is popular with locals and visitors alike, and features a brand-new chair lift, a T-Bar system, a tubing hill, and a conveyer belt to transport little ones and beginners safely up the bunny hill.

When first established, Shuniah covered a massive area spanning what is now known as Thunder Bay and extending to the U.S. border. Today, it is a rural/cottage community covering approximately 571 square kms (220 square miles), extending from Copenhagen Road along Highway 11/17 eastward along Lakeshore Drive to just west of Ouimet Canyon, with its northern boundary stretching to Eight Mile Hill on Highway 527.

Top of the Giant Lookout, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, ON – Melanie Scott

The Gateway to Outdoor Adventure

Shuniah is the gateway to two of Northwestern Ontario’s most popular natural attractions, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park and Silver Islet. Sleeping Giant is a playground for nature lovers, with campgrounds, cabins, inland lakes, sandy beaches, and trails suitable for hiking and biking. At the end of one of the shorter trails, you’ll find the Thunder Bay Lookout, an iconic viewing platform overlooking Lake Superior. Drive a few minutes past the park, and you’ll discover Silver Islet, a community that was established in the 1800’s to support an active silver mine, which is now under water. Stroll on the dock, chat with locals, and visit the Silver Islet General Store to pick up a memento and enjoy one of their famous cinnamon rolls. Shuniah’s best kept secret is Wild Goose Beach, one of few public, swim-friendly sandy beaches along the north shore of Lake Superior. The beach is about 400 feet long, with grassy areas perfect for a relaxing picnic.

For those more interested in heading out on or under the water, Silver Harbour Conservation Area. A popular water access point on the north shore, this conservation area is maintained by the Lakehead Conservation Area. There is a public launch for boaters, and an underwater park for scuba divers.

Amethyst Mine Panorama (7)

Amethyst Country

Discover the beauty and history of Shuniah’s renowned amethyst mines and shops, where visitors can explore rugged landscapes, hunt for Ontario’s official gemstone, and purchase unique locally crafted treasures. Whether you’re searching for your own sparkling purple keepsake or browsing stunning handmade jewelry, décor, and one-of- a-kind souvenirs, Shuniah offers memorable hands-on experience for all ages. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and Northern Ontario charm along the shores of Lake Superior.

Thunder Bay KOA 4

Stay & Shop

Fuel up and grab a snack at Shuniah’s convenience stores. If you have a little more time to spare, browse unique shops for delicious products like local smoked fish, roasted coffee or honey. Check out one of the area’s amethyst shops and mines to dig for your own gem or select a handmade Amethyst item from the retail store. There are so many things to enjoy here in Shuniah, you may want to plan an overnight stay at one of their campgrounds. No matter your preference, there’s something for everyone, from a more wilderness experience at Mirror Lake to a the resort-like experience of the KOA Campground, which offers amenities such as an outdoor pool and a driving range.

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