Historic Adventures: A self-guided tour
Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
By Liana Hryniewicz
Embark on a captivating journey through time with a self-guided tour of three remarkable national historic sites in Algoma. Parks Canada and the City of Sault Ste. Marie jointly developed the two-day itinerary to help visitors explore the rich post-contact history of the region. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for an enriching weekend adventure, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience for all!
Start your journey at the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site (English only), home to two of the oldest stone buildings northwest of Toronto. Tour the historic buildings, entertaining exhibits, and charming heritage gardens to learn about the lives of Charles Oak Ermatinger and Francis Hector Clergue. The buildings were the homes of these two giants of commerce, who helped develop Sault Ste. Marie from a fur trading hub to an industrialized town.
After your morning at the Ermatinger-Clergue, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of many pleasant restaurants in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
Continue west for an afternoon of discovery at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, which was once part of the busiest commercial lock systems in the world. Orient yourself at the Visitor Centre, then explore the exhibit space with knowledgeable interpreters. Through interactive displays, learn about the canal’s construction and the cultural significance of the St. Mary’s River rapids to the Anishinaabe and Métis Peoples.
Take a relaxing stroll or fat bike ride along the scenic trails surrounding the canal. Enjoy picturesque views of the river, as well as close-ups of 130-year old engineering marvels, like the Emergency Swing Dam.
End your day with a meal at a local eatery, preparing for another exciting day ahead!
Begin Day 2 with a scenic 90-minute drive east to Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site. Explore the ruins of the fort and immerse yourself in the rich history of this once-thriving community that served as a British military base and fur trade hub during the years leading up to the War of 1812.
Start at the Visitor Centre and museum, where artifacts from the fort and surrounding community offer tangible connections to the past. Engage with enthusiastic interpreters to delve deeper into the history. Wander among the ruins and learn about the alliances formed between the British, fur trade companies, Métis, and First Nations Peoples of the western Great Lakes region.
In the afternoon, participate in activities that bring history to life. Visit the fur trade encampment, witness a musket-firing demonstration, or savour the aroma of fresh bread from a clay oven while imagining life in this remote outpost of Upper Canada.
Embark on a hike through the lush forest and rolling terrain surrounding the fort. Keep an eye out for the 215 bird species that make the site a federally recognized bird sanctuary!
Before turning in for the night, stop for dinner at a local eatery on St. Joseph’s Island and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your two-day trip.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop at any of the three sites to pick up a souvenir to remember your visits! Physical copies of this two-day itinerary are available at the national historic sites themselves, and the Ontario Travel Information Centre in Sault St. Marie.
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