The best family-friendly hikes and walks around North Channel
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Family friendly hiking trails around North Channel offer diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene forests and scenic lake overlooks. This region, particularly the North Channel of Lake Huron, is characterized by extensive woodlands, pristine shorelines, and unique geological features like alvars. The terrain generally features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for various activity levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails around North Channel
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Bridal Veil Falls, a 0.7 miles (1.2…
Last updated: September 29, 2026
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hikers
1.18km
00:19
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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24
hikers
11.7km
03:01
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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hikers
7.35km
01:53
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The visitor centre was built in 2002 by Friends of Misery Bay and Ontario Parks and is operated in partnership. There are differing accounts of opening hours: every day from the May long weekend (May 16-18, 2026) until September (Friends of Misery Bay) or on weekends in May and June and all week in July and August (Ontario Parks). On our visit on May 22, 2026, the visitor centre was closed and looked as if it had not yet opened in 2026. https://miserybay.ca/about https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/miserybay/facilities At the small parking lot, a sign with a QR code indicates the payment options for visiting the park. There is no machine! A day ticket for two people with a vehicle costs approx. €10. Payment is made on the Ontario Parks website: https://reservations.ontarioparks.ca/
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The shelter on the Coastal Alvar Trail on Lake Huron is the only infrastructure on the shore, apart from a few benches. Ned Saunders was the first European settler on the east side of the bay and built a cabin near the beach, which is known today as The Shelter in Saunder's Cove. (Visit on May 22, 2026) https://miserybay.ca/history
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The Coastal Alvar Trail, a circular route, is approximately 12 kilometers long. The tour starts at the visitor center, leads over rock slabs across several steps down to the beach and along the Alvar coast on a unique flat limestone rock slab, which is partly covered with washed-up pebbles. At low tide, you can walk about 4.5 kilometers on these rock slabs - to the shelter at Saunder's Cove and further to the turn-off of the Mac's Bay Trail - otherwise you have to walk on the Inland Alvar Trail. The way back to the visitor center runs inland through a cedar forest - on a path that can be muddy depending on the season and rainfall. (Visit on May 22, 2026) https://miserybay.ca/trail-maps-%26-hotspots
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The Mac's Bay Trail extends through a cedar forest for just over a kilometer from the shore of Lake Huron to the bay, which is surrounded by a wetland. During our visit on May 22, 2026, the forest path was heavily waterlogged and muddy due to the rain of the past few days – requiring extra time. On the coast, there is a viewpoint that offers views over the wetland and waters. https://miserybay.ca/trail-maps-%26-hotspots
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The coast of Misery Bay presents itself as a wide, flat limestone rock plate with specialized vegetation, flowering plants in crevices in late spring and late summer - a so-called Alvar coast. The Alvars are known as unique habitats; the Alvars on Manitoulin Island are the most significant Alvars found in the world, and the only ones in North America. Likewise, the most significant wetland on Manitoulin Island is located in Misery Bay Provincial Park. (Visit on May 22, 2026) https://miserybay.ca/description
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Coastal Alvar Trail traverses through one of Canada’s rarest ecosystems, with flat limestone pavement that supports hardy wildflowers, mosses, lichens, and scattered cedars. Boardwalks and well-marked paths lead to the Lake Huron shoreline, with plenty of benches along the way to admire the scenery as you explore the remarkable diversity of Misery Bay’s unique and beautiful landscape.
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Mac’s Bay Trail branches off the Coastal Alvar Trail, leading through shady cedar forest, across open alvar, and along a limestone escarpment before reaching the quiet shoreline of Mac’s Bay. The marshy bay is a favourite spot for birdwatching, where you’ll see herons and other types of waterfowl along the reeds. It’s also a great place to see the grykes, erratics, and ancient beach ridges that are true examples of the area’s remarkable geological history.
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Misery Bay Provincial Park protects one of Canada’s largest alvar ecosystems, with more than 15 kilometres of hiking trails that wind through the rare limestone landscape, along wetlands, and the Lake Huron shoreline. The main trailhead includes a large parking area, an eco-friendly visitor centre with seasonal washrooms and exhibits, picnic areas, and trail information. As Manitoulin Island’s only operating day-use provincial park, a valid Ontario Parks day-use vehicle permit is required before entering, payable through a posted QR code or online before your visit here: https://www.ontarioparks.ca/park/miserybay
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in the North Channel region?
There are several family-friendly hiking trails in the North Channel region, with three routes specifically highlighted in this guide. These include two easy trails and one moderate option, ensuring there's something for various family activity levels.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes around the North Channel?
The North Channel region, particularly around Lake Huron, offers a diverse range of landscapes perfect for family exploration. You can expect rugged coastlines, extensive forests, and scenic waterways. Trails often feature coastal lookouts, quiet river paths, and unique geological formations like alvars.
Are there any easy, shorter hikes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families with young children or those looking for a shorter, easier stroll, the Bridal Veil Falls trail is an excellent choice. It's an easy route, just over 1 kilometer in length, offering a beautiful natural attraction without a strenuous climb.
What are some interesting natural sights or landmarks to look out for on these trails?
The North Channel region is rich in natural beauty. Along the trails, you might encounter stunning viewpoints like North Channel Lookout and Coomb Point. There are also beautiful beaches such as Patrick Point and North Channel Beach, as well as unique wetlands like the Wetland in Harbour Loop, Blind River.
Are there any moderate-difficulty trails for families seeking a longer adventure?
Absolutely! For families looking for a more extended hike, the Coastal Alvar & Mac's Bay Trail loop offers a moderate challenge. This trail spans nearly 12 kilometers and provides a great opportunity to explore the unique alvar ecosystems and coastal views.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in the North Channel?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in the North Channel, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 72 ratings. Hikers often praise the region for its pristine natural beauty, well-maintained paths, and the variety of experiences, from stunning waterfalls to unique alvar landscapes, making it ideal for family outings.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, the Coastal Alvar & Mac's Bay Trail loop is a fantastic circular option. It allows families to experience a diverse range of scenery without retracing their steps, offering a complete and engaging outdoor adventure.
What is an 'alvar' and can we see them on these hikes?
An alvar is a rare natural habitat characterized by thin soil over bedrock, supporting unique plant communities. Yes, you can explore these fascinating ecosystems on trails like the Inland Alvar Trail, which is an easy 7.3-kilometer route, perfect for discovering this distinctive landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit the North Channel for family hiking?
The North Channel region offers beauty throughout the seasons. Spring brings wildflowers, summer provides warm weather for exploring coastal areas, and autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Each season offers a unique experience, so the 'best' time depends on your family's preferences for weather and scenery.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on family trails in the North Channel?
Yes, the diverse ecosystems of the North Channel, including its forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and unique flora as you explore the trails.
Where can I find more information about the broader region, such as Sault Ste. Marie?
For more information about the broader region, including nearby areas like Sault Ste. Marie, which offers additional outdoor activities and attractions, you can visit saulttourism.com.
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