Tucked away in the blue expanse of Canada’s Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island is a place of striking landscapes and deep-rooted history. It’s the largest island in a freshwater lake anywhere on Earth—a fact that barely hints at the wonders it holds.
This is a land of towering cliffs, rolling forests, and more than a hundred inland lakes, some with their own islands. It’s a sanctuary for wildlife, a living testament to Indigenous traditions, and a paradise for those who crave outdoor adventure.
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Where Geography Tells a Story
Manitoulin Island is part of Ontario, floating within Lake Huron like a world unto itself. At 2,766 square kilometers (1,068 square miles), it boasts an impressive size allowing a diverse landscape.Its most remarkable feature is Lake Manitou, the largest lake within a lake on the planet, which in turn contains its own islands.
Here, geology takes center stage: limestone alvars create vast, otherworldly plains, the Niagara Escarpment carves dramatic cliffs, and thick forests roll across the island’s interior. The land itself tells a story of deep time—of glaciers that shaped its surface, of ancient waterways that carved paths through its rock, and of ecosystems that have thrived for thousands of years.
The World’s 5 Largest Lake Islands
| Rabk | Island | Area (km²) | Area (sq mi) | Lake | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manitoulin Island | 2,766 | 1,068 | Lake Huron | Canada |
| 2 | René-Levasseur Island | 2,020 | 780 | Manicouagan Reservoir | Canada |
| 3 | Olkhon Island | 730 | 280 | Lake Baikal | Russia |
| 4 | Samosir Island | 630 | 243 | Lake Toba | Indonesia |
| 5 | Isle Royale | 535 | 207 | Lake Superior | United States |
A Place of Deep History
Manitoulin has been home to the Anishinaabe people for thousands of years, standing as an important cultural and historical landmark in Canada. The island’s name comes from “Manidoowaaling,” meaning “cave of the spirit,” a reference to the sacred caves where spirits were believed to dwell.
The Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi Nations have called this island home for generations, maintaining a spiritual and cultural connection to the land. European explorers arrived in the 17th century, followed by Jesuit missionaries who established some of Ontario’s earliest churches. The island’s history took a significant turn in the 1836 Treaty, which designated Manitoulin as an Indigenous reserve.
However, the 1862 Manitoulin Treaty opened much of the land to non-Indigenous settlers, dramatically reshaping the island’s communities. Despite these changes, Manitoulin remains a place where Indigenous culture thrives, with traditions, storytelling, and ceremonies deeply woven into daily life.
Nature & Wildlife: An Untamed Paradise
A Landscape Unlike Any Other
Manitoulin is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an array of ecosystems that support an impressive variety of flora and fauna. The island’s rugged cliffs and rolling forests offer shelter to wildlife, while its wetlands and inland lakes provide rich feeding grounds for migratory birds. The alvars, unique limestone formations found only in a few places on Earth, are home to rare orchids, mosses, and butterflies.
Who Calls Manitoulin Home?
- White-tailed deer roam the forests and meadows.
- Black bears wander the wilder regions.
- Bald eagles soar over the island’s many lakes.
- Loons lend their haunting calls to the evening air.
- Beavers shape the waterways with their industrious dams.
The surrounding waters teem with life—anglers prize walleye, pike, and bass, while deep sections of Lake Huron offer opportunities to spot lake trout and salmon.
Must-See Places: Icons of Manitoulin
Great Spirit Circle Trail
This immersive Indigenous experience offers a profound way to connect with Anishinaabe traditions. Guided by knowledgeable Indigenous hosts, visitors can take part in storytelling sessions, traditional craft-making, and canoe journeys through sacred landscapes. The trail is more than just a path—it’s a gateway to understanding the deep spiritual and cultural roots of Manitoulin.
Bridal Veil Falls
A stunning cascade near Kagawong, this waterfall is an easy hike and a favorite for photographers. The water tumbles over a limestone ledge, forming a delicate veil-like appearance that gives the falls its name. Visitors can walk behind the falls or dip their feet into the refreshing pool below, making it a perfect summer stop.
Misery Bay Provincial Park
Despite its name, Misery Bay is anything but miserable. This serene provincial park is home to rare alvar ecosystems, where hardy vegetation thrives on exposed limestone. The park’s well-maintained trails lead through forests and along the shoreline, offering birdwatching opportunities and a tranquil escape into nature. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate the subtleties of a unique landscape.
Little Current
As Manitoulin’s main entry point, Little Current is a lively town brimming with waterfront charm. The historic swing bridge, which allows boats to pass through the North Channel, is a sight to see in action. The town itself offers quaint shops, cozy cafes, and a welcoming harbor where boaters dock to enjoy the island’s warm hospitality.
Cup and Saucer Trail
For hikers, the Cup and Saucer Trail is the crown jewel of Manitoulin’s outdoor adventures. The trail winds through dense forests before ascending to a dramatic cliff edge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The adventurous can take the “Adventure Route,” a more challenging path that involves some climbing, but the reward is an even more breathtaking vantage point.
Providence Bay
Providence Bay is home to Manitoulin’s finest sandy beach, stretching along the shores of Lake Huron. A scenic boardwalk allows for peaceful strolls along the water’s edge, while the shallow waters make it a safe spot for families. Sunsets here are spectacular, casting a golden glow over the bay and creating a picture-perfect moment at the end of the day.
Gordon’s Park Dark-Sky Preserve
One of Ontario’s premier stargazing locations, Gordon’s Park offers an unspoiled night sky far from city lights. The preserve hosts astronomy nights, where visitors can observe constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way with incredible clarity. Whether you bring a telescope or simply lay back and watch shooting stars, this is a place where the universe feels within reach.
Lake Manitou
The largest lake on the island, Lake Manitou, is a paradise for anglers, paddlers, and those seeking solitude. Its clear waters reflect the vast sky, creating a peaceful setting for canoeing and fishing. With numerous hidden coves and a shoreline lined with forests, it’s an idyllic escape from the hustle of everyday life.
How to Get to the World’s Largest Lake Island
Manitoulin Island is accessible by several means of transportation, ensuring that visitors can easily plan their journey.
By Car. The most common route is via Highway 6, which connects the mainland to Manitoulin via the Little Current Swing Bridge. This historic bridge, built in 1913, is the only road access point to the island.
By Ferry. During the warmer months (May to October), the MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry operates between Tobermory (on the Bruce Peninsula) and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island. The ferry ride offers stunning views of Lake Huron and is a must-try for travelers.
By Air. For those seeking a quicker journey, Gore Bay-Manitoulin Airport and smaller airstrips serve private and charter flights.
Best Time to Visit
Manitoulin Island offers year-round beauty, with each season bringing unique experiences:
Spring: Blooming wildflowers and active wildlife.
Summer: Ideal for hiking, boating, and cultural festivals.
Autumn: Stunning fall foliage and crisp, cool air.
Winter: Snowshoeing, ice fishing, and a peaceful retreat from city life.
Manitoulin Island: A Land Like No Other
Manitoulin Island is more than a place; it is a story, written in rock, water, and tradition. Its landscapes hold echoes of ancient glaciers, its waters reflect centuries of history, and its people carry forward a deep cultural legacy.
From breathtaking trails to vibrant Indigenous traditions, every corner of this island in Ontario offers a glimpse into a world shaped by time and connection. The vast forests, towering cliffs, and endless shorelines create an atmosphere that lingers in memory long after leaving.