7 Wildlife Experiences in The Seven

Northeastern Ontario is wild in the best way possible. Vast forests, deep lakes, and endless sky make the perfect backdrop for incredible animal encounters. Whether you're watching polar bears swim, chilling with alpacas, or running trails with happy huskies, there are so many ways to connect with nature. Here’s a look at some of the best wildlife encounters you can have in The Seven.

Get Up Close with Polar Bears in Cochrane

Ontario is home to around 900 to 1,100 polar bears, mostly in the remote lowlands of the far north. While spotting one in the wild can be a rare and lucky occasion, the next best thing is a visit to the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat. It’s the world’s only sanctuary dedicated to caring for and rehabilitating polar bears. Here, you can see rescued polar bears Ganuk and Henry roaming freely in a natural boreal forest setting. There’s an underwater viewing area where you can get close-up shots of the bears swimming! The staff offers fascinating talks about polar bear conservation, so you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of these majestic creatures.

For a unique adventure, hop on Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, a rail service that takes you to Moosonee on the shores of James Bay. It’s the perfect add-on to your polar bear experience in Cochrane.

Sleep with Wolves in Timmins: A Wildly Unique Getaway

Ever dreamed of sleeping under the stars… with wolves? Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa in Timmins makes that dream come true. Their Sleeping with the Wolves experience lets you spend the night in a glass-walled chalet, just feet away from a pack of wolves. No fences or barriers—just you and nature. Picture lying in a cozy bed, hearing wolves howl in the distance, and watching them roam freely through the wilderness. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights!

This one-of-a-kind getaway is set on 175 acres of pristine wilderness and offers more than just wolves (but is it ever ‘just wolves’?!). Cedar Meadows has Nordic baths, a relaxing spa, and a wildlife park. It’s a tranquil and immersive way to connect with nature, so be sure to book early—the wolves have a waitlist!

Cedar Meadows Wildlife Park

Come for the wolves, stay for the bison! Or vice versa. Cedar Meadows Wildlife Park offers a fantastic opportunity to get up close with a variety of native animals like bison, elk, and deer—and if you’re lucky, a disgruntled swan. Take a guided safari tour and see these majestic creatures roaming freely in their natural habitats. The park also offers interactive wildlife experiences, where you can feed and learn about these animals from knowledgeable guides. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the region’s wilderness without leaving the comfort of the resort! Bonus: you can wash away the scent of bison in the glorious spa (please shower first!).

Alpaca Walks

If you’re looking for a less, um, carnivorous wildlife experience, how about spending some time with alpacas? These sweet creatures are perfect for those who want to get hands-on with nature without the really wild side. Several alpaca farms in The Seven welcome visitors, and some even offer guided experiences.

At Dare2Dream Alpaca Farm in Espanola, you can shop for alpaca fiber clothing and learn about the soft fleece these animals produce. Lonely Oak Alpacas in Callander offers one-of-a-kind handcrafted alpaca items, and though there aren’t formal tours, the farm store is a great stop for cozy, handmade gifts. For a more interactive experience, Dream Acres Alpacas in Matheson offers guided "Body and Soul Alpaca Walks" where you stroll the farm with one of their friendly alpacas by your side. They also offer a cozy trailer accommodation that’s perfect for families or small groups. It’s a peaceful, fun, family-friendly way to connect with these adorable creatures.

Bison du Nord: A Wild Adventure in Earlton

For something truly iconic, a visit to Bison du Nord in Earlton is a must. This family-owned farm is home to a herd of 350 bison, and they offer a 1.5-hour, bilingual guided tour through their pastures. The tour is a great way to learn about bison history, care, and sustainable farming practices. You’ll get an up-close look at these powerful animals as they roam freely. Before or after the tour, stop by the farm shop, which sells bison meat products, apparel, and souvenirs. Tours run on Saturdays from June to September, so it’s the perfect summer outing.

Located near the Ontario/Quebec border, Bison du Nord is just a short drive from Temiskaming Shores or Kirkland Lake, making it easy to fit into your adventure.

Dog-Powered Adventures

Winter in The Seven isn’t just about snowmobiling and ice fishing—it’s also the perfect time to try dog-powered sports. These high-energy adventures let you experience the thrill of working with sled dogs while gliding through breathtaking northern landscapes.

In the North Bay area, Northbound Huskies offers an exciting introduction to dogsledding. Their guided tours take you through scenic trails, where you can either ride as a passenger or learn the basics of mushing. If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, they also offer skijoring—a fast-paced sport where you’re on cross-country skis pulled by huskies. If you prefer something a little different, try kicksledding—a Nordic-style sled propelled by kicking off the ground while a team of huskies (or your own dogs!) pulls you along. These dog-powered adventures typically run from December through March, depending on snow conditions. Dress warmly, book in advance, and get ready for an unforgettable winter experience. It’s more than a ride—it’s an exhilarating connection to nature and tradition and a special relationship with the dogs.

And dog-powered fun isn’t just for winter. In the warmer months, you can try bikejoring—a fast-paced ride where your dog pulls you on a mountain bike. Canicross is another great option, where you and your pup run together with a special harness system that helps your four-legged friend give you an extra boost. These sports are a fantastic way to stay active, bond with the dogs, and explore the rugged beauty of The Seven year-round!

Crazy Acres Fun Farm, Iroquois Falls

For a fun, hands-on farm experience, Crazy Acres Fun Farm in Iroquois Falls is the place to be. This family-run farm is home to a variety of animals, including goats, pigs, chickens, and more. While they don’t offer overnight stays, they provide plenty of interactive activities where visitors can get involved, like feeding the animals or helping out with farm chores. It’s a perfect stop for families looking to teach kids where their food comes from or anyone wanting to escape into a peaceful country setting. Plus, their farm store offers fresh, local produce and homemade goodies.

Birdwatching at Hersey Lake Conservation Area, Timmins

For birdwatching enthusiasts, the Gillies Lake and Hersey Lake Conservation Areas in Timmins are real gems. These tranquil spots are a popular destination for birding, and an important part of spring and fall migratory routes. You can often see several migratory birds like Bufflehead Ducks, Tundra Swans and Great Blue Herons swimming around early in the spring. The Conservation Areas provide important resting areas as these birds make their long journeys, and also offer year round habitat for non-migratory birds. Both the Hersey Lake and Gillies Lake Conservation Areas are equipped with convenient parking areas, pleasant trails and good viewing areas. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just getting started, it’s a perfect place to enjoy the beauty of nature while spotting some feathered friends.

A Wildlife Lover’s Paradise

From polar bears to alpacas, wolves to bison, and sled dogs to the northern lights, The Seven is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Each experience offers something unique, from cozy farm stays to exhilarating outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking a wild encounter or a peaceful connection with nature, The Seven has it all. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore these unforgettable wildlife experiences—book your adventure today!

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