Top 5 places to view the Sleeping Giant

So you’re in Thunder Bay; among the many adventures you will have, the most common must-do is to see the Sleeping Giant—the iconic peninsula that watches over the city from across the bay.

The top 5 places to get a great view

Hillcrest Park

Hillcrest Park, the centrally located recreation area is the go-to spot for visitors who want a great view of the Sleeping Giant. Hillcrest is the spot for a fantastic, all-season view. The park includes ample parking so you can enjoy view from your car, and it's a great spot to enjoy a take-out lunch. If you choose to get out of the car, you’ll find a war memorial and an accessible playground.

Prince Arthur’s Landing

The marina park's official name is Prince Arthur’s Landing. It offers visitors a sea level view of the famous landmark. The Sleeping Giant is visible from virtually every inch of the park and the scene of the Giant in the background while ships pass and boats float through the foreground is one that every photographer will want to capture.

While you’re here, take a stroll along the walking paths to see the dozens of pieces of public art, cool off in the splash pad in the summer months, or go for a skate and warm up by the fire in the winter.

Animikii Wajiw - Mount McKay

Located on the Fort William First Nation, you’ll find Animikii Wajiw (Mount McKay). The tallest of the Nor’Wester Mountains, towering over 1000 feet, Mount McKay has a beautiful scenic viewing area at the 500-foot mark. Driveable, on a newly-paved road at the viewing area, visitors will be awed with sights of the Sleeping Giant, Lake Superior, the city of Thunder Bay and the surrounding countryside.

If you’re seeking a bit more adventure, near the viewing area you will find a hiking trail to the top of the mountain.

Chippewa Park

Located near the Mount McKay lookout view, the view from Chippewa Park gets you back down to the water. The viewing area has benches and a beautifully treed area. The park itself offers walking paths year-round with a more robust summer offering including carnival rides, a music pavillion, food vendors, a picnic area, camping, baseball and volleyball as well as a public beach for swimming.

Terry Fox Lookout

The view of the Sleeping Giant at the Terry Fox Memorial is the first one you’ll come across as you enter Thunder Bay travelling west; travelling east this is your last chance to see it.

The elevated viewing area at the Terry Fox Memorial offers visitors a great view of the Lake Superior shoreline through Thunder Bay, views of some of the harbour's islands and the Sleeping Giant.

Go inside the visitor centre while you’re here to speak to one of the knowledgeable Travel Counsellors and find out what to do, where to go, and the other must-sees in Thunder Bay and throughout the Northwest Ontario region.

Drive bys

River St Hill

Begin your drive by route at the intersection of High and River Streets heading east. Witness the marvel that is the Sleeping Giant as he appears in front of you while you crest the hill.

Hwy 11/17 ramp from Hodder Ave

The drive to the Terry Fox Memorial offers a surprise view—as you enter onto Highway 11/17 east from Hodder Ave, the Giant will emerge from behind the massive rock wall to the right of the on ramp.

Sail or Fly by

In the summer months, unparalleled views can be found both from the water and the air.

Try a sailing excursion with Sail Superior—get up close to the Giant—try a Top of the Giant Sailing Adventure.

Or...

An aerial tour with Northwest Heli-Tours—fly in an R44 helicopter over the world's largest freshwater lake. Taking off from Pool 6 in the heart of the Thunder Bay Waterfront - there is no better view of the city and the giant than this.

Here's a map of all the locations...get your camera ready.

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