*This blog has transitioned to a hobby blog, so updates are less frequent than before. As the travel industry is constantly evolving, please be sure to check with any place or restaurant directly before you visit to ensure the latest information.*
Mid September, I realized I hadn’t taken my usual solo trip—something I try to do every year to recharge. I started looking on Google maps and remembered this incredible park I’d heard so much about. Turns out, Lake Superior Provincial Park is only a five-hour drive from Traverse City! As someone who loves the outdoors, I knew I had to go, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. My 72-hour solo adventure was so refreshing and just what I needed. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to disconnect, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of one of Canada’s most breathtaking national parks.
The timing of this trip couldn’t have been more perfect. I arrived at the peak of fall colors, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows lighting up the landscape. The weather was equally stunning; sunny skies and crisp, refreshing air. Even the border crossing agent couldn’t help but comment as I handed over my passport with a smile: “No, seriously, you have no idea how lucky you are, it’s been raining for two weeks straight.” The drive into the park was so stunning!
My Base at Agawa Bay Campground
I set up camp at Agawa Bay Campground, a popular site within the park that’s located right along the lake. The campground offered a perfect blend of privacy and accessibility, with spacious sites and the calming sound of waves crashing on the shore. Each morning, I woke up to stunning lake views and nature. It was the ideal place to unplug, unwind, and get in touch with the myself and the outdoors. I slept in my car and this was the view each morning!
I started and ended each day with yoga, journaling, and stretching, setting a calm and grounding rhythm for my trip. With limited food options nearby, I prepped baked oatmeal for breakfast and picked up a pizza and sub on my way, and enjoyed them over the next three days. Seriously, best decision ever. Shout out to Guido’s Premium Pizza in Sault Ste. Marie (Michigan side) SO DAMN GOOD!
I was a bit hesitant to book such a popular campground, as I usually like staying in smaller ones, but it was awesome! The only complaint I’d have would be the road noise at times. It was really quiet as I was there at the beginning of shoulder season, but I hear it can get so busy in the summer with higher traffic, so just something to keep in mind.
Hiking Through the Park’s Iconic Trails
During my 72 hours in the park, I set out to explore some of the most iconic hikes in the area. Each trail offered something unique, from scenic views to historical landmarks. Here are the trails I visited.
Sand River Falls Trail
My adventure started with the Sand River Falls Trail, which is a 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) out-and-back hike. The trail follows the Sand River and leads to a series of beautiful waterfalls. It was a relatively easy hike, making it perfect for a morning walk. I loved seeing the groups of people fishing in the river. Everyone was just so happy to be amongst such beauty.
Katherine Cove Trail
The Katherine Cove Trail is another short but rewarding hike, coming in at about 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles) one way. This easy, scenic trail takes you along the shoreline of Lake Superior to a quiet, picturesque cove. The views of the clear water and rugged shoreline made it feel like a personal escape, and the trail is a great option for those looking to enjoy a peaceful walk with minimal effort.
Pictographs Trail
The Pictographs Trail is a 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) round trip, and it offers a combination of stunning views and cultural history. The trail leads to ancient rock paintings created by the Anishinaabe people. These rock paintings are some of the oldest known art in North America. The hike is moderate, but the reward at the end is well worth it. Seeing these remarkable pictographs set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior was an unforgettable experience.
Nokomis Trail
The Nokomis Trail is another moderate hike, covering about 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) one way. This trail winds through a beautiful forest and has some fun bouldering moments. It’s a perfect hike for those looking for a quiet, reflective walk in nature. If you look closely, you can spot the peak fall colors in the trees off in the distance. The picture doesn’t even come close to capturing how breathtaking it was in person!
The view looking over Old Woman Bay was also beautiful!
A Drive to Wawa… but Maybe Not Again
I decided to drive to Wawa, a nearby town known for its scenic views and iconic landmarks. While the drive itself was beautiful, I wouldn’t recommend the trip for those looking to maximize their time in the park. The town was a bit underwhelming, and I ultimately felt that I could have spent more time enjoying the trails and lakes instead. Everyone asked me if I saw the goose, and yes I did, but again, not worth it in my opinion!
A little history for you. The “goose” in Wawa, Ontario, Canada, refers to the Wawa Goose Monument. It’s a giant statue of a Canada goose that is one of the most iconic roadside attractions in Canada. It was erected in 1960 to celebrate the completion of the Trans-Canada Highway and has become a beloved symbol of the town. The word “Wawa” itself comes from the Ojibwe word wéwé, meaning “wild goose.”
Lake Superior Provincial Park, Pure Natural Beauty
Lake Superior Provincial Park has an undeniable magic to it. Whether I was hiking through dense forests, enjoying the shoreline views, or simply sitting by the campfire at Agawa Bay, I was constantly in awe of the natural beauty surrounding me. The park feels wild and untamed, offering a sense of solitude and peace that’s hard to find in our modern world. Here are some more photos from my solo trip in Lake Super Provincial Park!
This trip taught me I don’t have to go far away or for long periods of time to ground myself, connect with mama earth, and come back feeling refreshed! If you’re looking for a short, peaceful getaway that offers natural beauty, scenic hikes, and the tranquility of the great outdoors, Lake Superior Provincial Park should be on your list. It’s a short drive from Traverse City, and trust me—it’s more than worth the visit. Until next time, Lake Superior.
Lake Superior Provincial Park was a trip I almost skipped, and I’m so glad I didn’t! If you’re curious about my other adventures, please explore my other blog posts here.
