Sault Ste. Marie, or the SOO may be a small town, but it’s big on summer. Whether hiking through nature, splashing and playing at a pool, or stretching out at the beach, Sault Ste. Marie offers quintessential summer fun.
Located in the heart of the Great Lakes, The SOO is surrounded by amazing beaches. Pointe des Chênes beach, a short 20 minute drive from our Willow Properties, boasts sandy shores and is ideal for swimming with its clear sandy bottom. You’ll find the shallow water is warmer than Lake Superior swimming spots and perfect for testing out that SUP board or heading out in a kayak. Batchawana Bay beach and Pancake Bay beach are less than an hour north both with beautiful beaches for a day of sun and fun.
Sault Ste. Marie offers amazing scenery throughout the summer months. Explore the city through nature trails and conservation areas or its thrilling mountain biking trails. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or a seasoned expert, Sault Ste. Marie has a bike trail for you. From over 40kms of trails throughout Hiawatha Highlands to bike tours and backpacking or Bikeglamping with Red Pine Tours Canada. If you prefer to stick close to the city, Fort Creek Conservation Area offers multi-use nature trails, wildlife sightings, and beautiful views.
Recently, Sault Ste. Marie opened its first splash pad. The Bellevue Park splash pad is open daily from 9am to 8pm with loads of water fun for kids. If the splash pad gets too busy, take the little ones to the Peter G. Manzo wading pool at Manzo Park. Or head to the 25 yard V.E. Greco Pool on Albert Street West. Both pools offer free admission and are open daily 1pm to 7pm.
Summer isn’t summer until you’ve had your first ice cream treat at Big Moose Ice Cream Parlour. Here you’ll find an extensive menu with over 68 different ice cream flavours, Slushie Floats, ice cream sandwiches, amazing sundaes, and so much more. Then walk off your treat along The SOO’s boardwalk located downtown along the St. Mary’s River. This beautiful walkway offers breathtaking views of the river, historic displays, observation platforms and several fishing spots.