Along the Lake Superior Circle Tour, you will encounter stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich history, and charming communities. One of these communities is Marathon, Ontario, a small town located on the north shore of Lake Superior, about halfway between Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie. Marathon is a great destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. Here are some of the things you can do and see in Marathon as part of your Lake Superior Circle Tour.
Pebble Beach
One of the most popular attractions in Marathon is Pebble Beach, a beautiful stretch of shoreline that is covered with smooth, colorful stones. Pebble Beach is a great place to relax, enjoy the views of Lake Superior, and listen to the soothing sound of the waves. You can also search for agates, quartz, and other semi-precious stones that are hidden among the pebbles. Pebble Beach is located within the town limits, just off Highway 17.
Mink Creek Falls
Another natural wonder that you can visit in Marathon is Mink Creek Falls, a 35-meter-high waterfall that cascades into a deep gorge. Mink Creek Falls is easily accessible from Highway 17, with a short walk from the parking lot to the viewing platform. You can also hike along the Mink Creek Trail, a 3-kilometer loop that follows the creek and offers more views of the falls and the surrounding forest.
Neys Lookout Trail
If you are looking for a more challenging hike, you can try the Neys Lookout Trail, a 4-kilometer round trip that climbs to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Lake Superior and the Pic Islands. The trail is located in Neys Provincial Park, about 20 kilometers west of Marathon. Neys Provincial Park is also home to other attractions, such as the Dune Trail, the Under the Volcano Trail, and the Point Trail, which explore different aspects of the park’s natural and cultural heritage.
Marathon Museum
If you are interested in learning more about the history of Marathon and the region, you can visit the Marathon Museum, located in the town hall. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the development of Marathon from a railway community to a pulp and paper town. You can also learn about the indigenous history, the fur trade, the gold rush, and the World War II prisoner of war camp that was located in Neys Provincial Park.
Penn Lake Park
If you are looking for a place to stay, camp, or enjoy some recreational activities, you can check out Penn Lake Park, a municipal park that offers a variety of facilities and services. Penn Lake Park has a campground, a beach, a playground, a splash pad, a pavilion, a boat launch, and a disc golf course. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes to explore the lake and the trails. Penn Lake Park is located in the heart of Marathon, within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Marathon is a gem on the Lake Superior Circle Tour, offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking for nature, adventure, or history, you will find it in Marathon, Ontario. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful and friendly towns on Lake Superior.
