Nipigon is located in Ontario’s Superior Country Region. Nipigon sits along Highway 11/17 and is 73.9 miles (119 km) east of Thunder Bay Ontario. Nipigon has a population of 1200 and was founded in 1908. The town is nestled in the breathtaking landscape of cliffs and red sibley rock surrounding the mighty Nipigon River. Located at the headwaters of Lake Superior, Nipigon has a wealth of activities to offer all ages. If you are looking to experience the true Canadian wilderness in all seasons, Nipigon’s alpine landscapes and trails create a winter wonderland for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. In summer, festivals and fishing derbies offer fun family entertainment, and hiking trails wait to be explored.
Nipigon’s sheltered rivers, bays and islands are a paradise for boating, fishing and kayaking. Experienced local outfitters provide guided outdoor adventures to visitors all year round. The Bridgeview Lookout Tower, built in 2018, is located just west of the Nipigon River Bridge, on Railway St. Climb 65 steps up this 40 foot structure to be rewarded with a 360 degree view from Lake Helen, to the Nipigon River Bridge, to the Marina and beyond. Nipigon’s Paddle-To-The-Sea Park brings a classic Canadian story to life for kids. Starting at the Lake Superior Waterfall in the heart of downtown Nipigon, twelve playground stations lead families on a journey of fun through the Great Lakes. Bill Mason’s Oscar nominated film is a famous retelling of the story of Paddle-To-The-Sea, originally written by Holling C. Holling in 1942.
The Nipigon River Recreational Trail connects the towns of Nipigon and Red Rock over 6 miles (10 km) of varied terrain including diabase cliffs and a rare coastal wetland. Take time to enjoy the breathtaking views of Nipigon Bay and it’s islands including the spectacular Eagle’s Ridge Lookout. Hiking the whole trail one way can take about three hours at a moderate pace. Hikers generally start at the Red Rock entrance, and will need to arrange for a ride back to their starting point. Some of Canada’s most impressive freshwater fishing action starts on the Nipigon lake and rivers every spring.
The world record brook trout was caught in the Nipigon River by Dr. J.W. Cook in 1915, weighing an amazing 14.5 pounds. It’s easy for both new and seasoned anglers to get hooked on the quantity and size of the Nipigon catch. This is where you’ll still find some of the biggest brook trout in the world as well as walleye, salmon and lake trout.
