Top 5 places to view the Sleeping Giant

Walk ups. Drive bys. Aerials and more.

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.

About Stephanie Reid

Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Stephanie is a content creator and media specialist and has a true appreciation for Northern Ontario and all of its many offerings and attractions.

Related Articles

Conquer a Giant

This iconic Northwest Ontario landmark rises 1000 ft above the surface of Lake Superior.

Experience Your Perfect Summer in Thunder Bay

An A to Z guide to outdoor adventure in this scenic Northern Ontario city

A Pancake is Just a Pancake... Or Is It?

The Top 10 Places to get Finn Pancakes in Thunder Bay

12 best places to stay in Thunder Bay

A boutique courthouse, art-filled hostel, or a luxe waterfront hotel—TBay has accommodations for every taste.

Green Mantle and Nanabijou's Wife

Discover the Legends of Thunder Bay's Natural Wonders

A Bird's-Eye View of Thunder Bay

Mount McKay Lookout - Anemki Wajiw is a must-do in this Northwestern Ontario city

Fishing in the City

Discover Thunder Bay's Urban Angling Hotspots

Memories of a Legend

Remembering Terry Fox at Memorial Sites near Thunder Bay

Landing the Big Fish at June Derby In Red Rock

Discover What’s New in Thunder Bay

From rainbow hot dogs to a massive patio expansion in the Waterfront District, here's what's new and hot right now. Hint: It's hot sauce.

The Best Sights to See in Thunder Bay

From the legendary Sleeping Giant to Indigenous art galleries these Thunder Bay attractions are not to be missed.

Outdoor Skills and Thrills

Touch the Sky in Thunder Bay

Two Days of Italian Cuisine and Culture

An August Long Weekend Tradition

Rainy Days and Everyday

Indoor Play Areas for Kids in Thunder Bay

Chowing down in Thunder Bay

Discover a diverse Northwest Ontario food scene

The Lighthouses of Porphyry Island

A Unique Place to Explore and Stay

The Birth of Thunder Pride

A Look Back to the Beginning of Thunder Bay's LGBTQ Pride Festival

Treasure Hunting in Thunder Bay

A longtime thrifter's story—and some hot tips!

Thunder Bay's Bay & Algoma Neighbourhood

Find Something for Everyone in this Unique Shopping Area

Cruising Northwest Ontario on the 11/17 West Loop

On a solo ride from Thunder Bay to Manitoba