Summer’s here, and Ontario is wide open for adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, it’s the ideal season to explore the province’s stunning landscapes, hidden-gem towns, and one-of-a-kind experiences that only summer can offer.
Some must-visit highlights include:
Grodine Park – Point Grondine Park, on the northern shores of Georgian Bay, is a pure wilderness and adventure paradise. The park covers over 18,000 acres of rugged landscape and contains ancient pine forests, shimmering lakes, winding rivers, and spectacular rocky outcrops. Scenic hiking trails such as the Merv’s Landing loop or the more challenging Wemtagoosh Falls backcountry route afford visitors panoramic vistas and intimate experiences in nature. For canoeists, a 20 km network of canoe routes link Collins Inlet and Georgian Bay’s historic waterways. The routes recall those traveled by the Anishnaabek people in the past. If you wish, a day hike, multi-day canoe trip, or relaxing camping trip on the lake awaits you. The park offers peace, beauty, and recreation in equal measure.
What truly distinguishes Point Grondine is its strong cultural significance. The park is managed by the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. The park invites individuals to learn about the history of the Anishnaabek people experientially with Indigenous guides. In the summer, guided trails such as the Amik Zii Bi Interpretive Trail provide education on land use, medicine plants, and tales of the culture. The walks typically include a sampling of smoked fish and cedar tea. Unique programs such as “Heartbeat of the Drum” integrate story, drumming, and nature interpretation to offer a powerful and authentic sense of place. On the land at Point Grondine, the land doesn’t just talk in its landscape—it tells a living history of heritage, stewardship, and home.
Kakabeka Falls – Kakabeka Falls, the “Niagara of the North,” is a wonder to behold for Ontario’s summer visitors. The falls cascade about 40 m into a deep gorge cut out in the old Precambrian shield. This picturesque waterfall provides spectacular views along the comfortable boardwalks and walkway on both sides of the Kaministiquia River. Visitors can walk several trails in a 500 ha provincial park. There are easy routes like the Boardwalk and Mountain Portage, and longer, more difficult loops like the Little Falls and Poplar Point trails. There are more than 15 km of trails in the park, ideal for relaxing evening walks or strenuous treks in the boreal forest. As you walk, look for deer, moose, eagles, and other animals.
Aside from its inherent appeal, Kakabeka Falls is an ideal summer destination because it is versatile and easy to access. Just 30 km west of Thunder Bay along the Trans-Canada Highway, it makes an ideal day-trip destination as well as a choice for longer camping trips. The park has close to 170 campsites, dispersed among three campgrounds. Some of the campsites have electrical hookups and comfort stations. There is a sheltered swimming beach, picnic areas, a visitor center with nature programs, and a small playground for little children. There are many family-based Discovery programs in the summer. Nature naturalists lead fun nature programs for people of all ages. Kakabeka Falls offers beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and learning experiences, making it a great mix of relaxation and recreation for your summer schedule.
Esker Lakes Provincial Park – Ontario’s Esker Lakes Provincial Park is a warm-weather haven for nature lovers who shun the crowds. Located in the boreal forest north of Kirkland Lake, it’s sprinkled with peaceful kettle lakes and sinuous eskers—ancient glacial ridges—with dramatic lookouts and excellent hiking. Canoeing on its peaceful lakes is like paddling through a postcard, with calm water, granite shoreline, and the distant wail of loons. It’s perfect for unplugging from the urban din and plugging back into something slower and genuine.
The park is also a wildlife enthusiast’s and stargazer’s paradise. Moose, fox, and every type of bird populate the terrain, and at night, the skies open up—far from any light pollution—giving clear views of the stars and the northern lights if you’re lucky. Campsites are well spread out, providing a private, secluded visit. If fishing, photography, or just hanging by the fire is your style, Esker Lakes offers that no-rush, no-frills kind of summer getaway.
