Sault Ste Marie is fortunate to have the natural splendor of Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area, located between Fifth and Sixth Line, east of Great Northern Road (Hwy.17 N).  The Highlands offer magnificent scenery including breathtaking waterfalls and 35 kilometres (22 miles) of Nature trails .  Hundreds of hectares of forests with creeks, lakes and wetlands create the ideal habitat for more than 70 species of birds and 18 species of mammals.

In the winter many kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails wind their way through the Conservation Area, Kinsmen Park, the City’s Wishart Park and Crown property surrounding the provincial fish hatchery appealing to both novice and expert skiers. While skiers pay to use these trails in the winter and early spring, there is no charge to hikers the rest of the year.

Within the Highlands is Kinsmen Park 97 hectares (240 acres) of land maintained by the Kinsmen Club.  The park includes one of the most spectacular views of Crystal Falls from the Ecology Trail or Crystal Creek Trail.  For visitor safety and to prevent further exposed tree root damage, a wheelchair accessible boardwalk was constructed beside the trail.  Although each trail within the park highlights unique terrain the park also includes a baseball diamond, children’s playground, picnic area, and swimming area.

View the Hiawatha Highlands Brochure - View Brochure

Area Attractions

Crystal Creek Mountain Bike Trail - This is a single track mountain bike trail for intermediate to advance riders. Approximate riding time 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours.

Tarentorous Fish Culture Station - open 9 am to 5 pm daily, allows visitors to see various trout species being reared for the Ministry of Natural Resource’s fish release program.

Wishart Park - offers hiking trails and a view of Root River where salmon spawn during the fall.