Hiking the North Shore – the Benefits for you and your Community

Hiking is fun and good for you! You can do it with friends, family and pets. There are so many benefits of hiking for individuals as well as communities. Some of these benefits are highlighted below. The recommended hiking trails along the North Shore include the communities of Dorion, Red Rock, Nipigon, Schreiber, Terrace Bay, Marathon and Manitouwadge. Get outdoors, hike and experience nature!

Hiking is an Affordable Outdoor Activity

Trails provide a low or no-cost recreational activity for everyone. It is an affordable way to get exercise and experience the outdoors with loved ones. You don’t need much for gear if you are just going for an hour or half day trip. Pack light if you can. Wear proper footwear, hiking poles if needed, a water bottle and snacks. Don’t forget to bring all your garbage and wrappers back with you so that you can properly dispose of them at home or at a garbage can near the trailhead. Be responsible and respect nature. Let’s keep our trails clean.

Trail Use

Trails can be used for anything from waking/hiking to biking, bird viewing, geocaching, ATV, horse back riding, snowmobile, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. There are even skate trails now that are a trending winter activity. There truly is something for everyone!

Seasons

Most trails can be enjoyed all year round. Every season gives a different experience. Summer provides warm, sunny hikes and longer days. During the autumn months the array of oranges, reds, and yellows make trails beautiful as you feel the crunch of fallen leaves under foot. Winter offers a whole new experience, bringing out snow lovers for cross country skiing and snow shoeing. Spring is an excellent time to chase some waterfalls during your hike as the snow melt brings rushing falls.

Views

Trails often lead to some spectacular views. Pictured here is the the breathtaking view at the top of the Kama Cliffs hiking trail. If an unforgettable view is what you’re after on your hike, some quick research before your trek will allow you to find the best views on the north shore. The Top of Superior Hiking Trails brochure can help you determine the perfect trail for a rewarding vantage point. Trails can also feature waterfalls, cliffs, creeks, breathtaking foliage, forests, and wetlands for wildlife and bird viewing.

Special Features

Some trails will have bird houses, bird feeders, interpretive panels, bridges, staircases, picnic tables, ropes, and lookout platforms. Parks Canada Red Chairs can be found on several hiking trails on the North Shore. A perfect place to relax during a hike with some of the most amazing views.

Pets

Pets can enjoy trails too. Owners and pets benefit from the exercise and quality time together with respectful following of rules and regulations of the trail. Be sure to abide by leash rules of the trail and always pick up after your pups. Bring water and vessel especially for longer hikes.

Maps – Top of Superior Hiking Trails brochure

Use maps, they provide information such as the trail classification, so you know the level of difficulty and the distance. It is highly recommended to look at them over before you venture on any trail you are not familiar with. The Top of Superior Hiking Trails brochure is available at Ducky’s Diner and the Edgeview Restaurant in Nipigon, Red Pebbles Café in Red Rock, the Red Rock Interpretive Center, The Grill Shack at Canyon Country Co-op in Dorion, and at the Golden Rail in Schreiber.

Community Benefits

Trails boost spending at local businesses. Walking and hiking work up an appetite. All North Shore communities with trails benefit from hikers by visiting and going to restaurants (either dine-in or take-out), snack shops, pubs, coffee establishments and retail stores. Packing a picnic from a local restaurant or grocery store to bring along with you is a great way add to your hiking experience. Just remember to bring any trash back with you and leave no trace.

Giving Back to the Community

Trails also encourage communities to host fundraising events which can raise funds for local charities. These functions always need volunteers. Their time and effort are what makes our trails and communities come together. Volunteers help to keep the trails clean and maintained so they can be safe and enjoyed by all.

Mental and Physical Health

This might be the best one. Hiking provides a time for talking, sharing, socializing with friends and family. Walking relieves stress and tension. Trails provide fresh air and calmness year-round. Getting regular exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle. Getting out in nature can be far more interesting than the gym. It can also provide additional benefits. Sunlight is proven to boost mood, increase vitamin D production, and can help you sleep. For most people, 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure a day is enough to receive these health benefits. Always remember to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.

Photography

There are plenty of opportunities for individuals, families, or friends to take videos and photos of wildlife, scenery, nature, or fun group photos. You don’t have to be a professional to capture a special photo.

List of recommended Trails along the North Shore

Found in the Top of Superior Hiking Trail Brochure

Nipigon River Recreational Trail (From Nipigon to Red Rock, includes Lloyd’s Lookout)

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 10.1 km (one way)
• Estimate Time: 3-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 154m

Red Rock Mountain Trail

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 4.9 km (loop)
• Estimate Time: 3-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 183m

Deer Lake Mountain Trail (Nipigon)

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 1.5 km (one way)
• Estimate Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1m

Mazukama Falls Trail (Nipigon)

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 3.1 km
• Estimate Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 120m

Kama Cliffs Trail (Nipigon)

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 7.3 km (loop)
• Estimate Time: 3-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 152m

Casque Isles Trail (Rossport to Terrace Bay)

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 53 km (5 segments), 11 access points
• Estimate Time: 3-6 days
• Elevation Gain: 250m (each segment varies)

Rossport Coastal Trail

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 1.5 km (one way)
• Estimate Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1m

Marathon Group of Seven Trail

• Classification: Difficult
• Distance: 54 km (one way)
• Elevation Gain: 135m

Manitouwadge, Perry Lake Trail

• Classification: Easy
• Distance: 2.2 km (round-trip)
• Estimate Time: 60 minutes
• Elevation Gain: approx. 10m

Hurkett Cove Conservation Area Trail (Dorion)

• Classification: Easy
• Distance: 2 km (one way)
• Estimate Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation Gain: N/A