In Thunder Bay, nature and good food go hand in hand. You can hike to a roaring waterfall in the morning, sip a local beer by the afternoon and end your day with something sweet and homemade.
This city has a way of feeding both your appetite and your sense of adventure. So, if you like your days a little wild and your meals cozy, here are three Thunder Bay adventures that prove hard play deserves great food!
1. Waterfall Wander + Cozy Coffee
Where: Kakabeka Falls,4853 ON-11 #17, Kakabeka Falls, ON (View Map); The Sal, 118 Frederica St W, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); The Early Refill,
Unit B, 4785 ON-11 #17, Kakabeka Falls, ON (View Map)
Start your morning at The Sal, a Thunder Bay favourite that’s been serving locals for over fifty years. Order the Breakfast Poutine or Breaky Tacos and enjoy the smell of coffee brewing and bacon sizzling. It’s hearty and full of hometown charm.
Then head to Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. Known as the “Niagara of the North,” this waterfall is a showstopper. Follow the boardwalk trails and watch the mist rise from the gorge. You’ll hear the water long before you see it.
After exploring, stop in at The Early Refill Café just down the road. It’s small, welcoming and always smells like something delicious. Sip a spiced apple cider and grab a gooey caramel oat square before heading back to town. It’s a sweet reward that feels just right after time on the trails.
2. Canyon Views + Craft Brews
Where: Ouimet Canyon, R.R. #1. Pass Lake, ON (View Map); Lakehead Beer Co. & Tomlin Subdivision, 206 Park Ave, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
If you love big views, make your way to Ouimet Canyon. It’s one of Northern Ontario’s most jaw-dropping spots, with cliffs that drop more than 100 meters and stretch as far as the eye can see. The short trail to the lookout is peaceful and lined with trees all around and a view that makes the drive worth it.
The trail is clearly marked and well maintained, a mix of packed dirt paths and sturdy wooden decks that guide you safely toward the canyon lookout. There’s also an accessible ramp, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the experience.
When you’re ready to relax, head back into Thunder Bay and stop at Lakehead Beer Co. This local brewery takes pride in every pour, serving beer straight from the tanks so it’s always fresh and full of flavour.
Their lineup changes with the seasons, so keep an eye on the board for rotating brews for fruity summer sours like the Cherry Wave or malty ales like the smooth Altbier that locals love year-round.
If you’re hungry, grab a slice from Tomlin Subdivision next door. Their Detroit-style pizza is a local favourite with a thick, crispy crust and bubbling cheese. The Ezzo is a must-try, loaded with pepperoni and rich tomato sauce. It’s comfort food that hits the spot after a day outdoors.
3. Forest Trails + Sweet Treats
Where: Cedar Falls + ELDAR Café, 215 Red River Rd #105, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); The Persian Man, 899 Tungsten St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map); Industry Social House, 782 Macdonell St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Start your day with breakfast at ELDAR Café, one of Thunder Bay’s newer spots blending Persian and Mediterranean flavours.
The Turkish Tomato Omelette cooked with roasted tomatoes and served with warm Persian bread, honey and cheese is light and comforting. Pair it with a rich Turkish coffee and enjoy a slow start before your morning adventure.
Once you’re ready to get moving, make your way to Cedar Falls. The trail winds through quiet forest and ends at a small waterfall tucked between mossy rocks. You’ll hear birds overhead and the sound of rushing water in the distance. It’s calm and the kind of place that makes you breathe a little deeper.
When you arrive to the conservation area, be sure to check out the trail map and follow the maintained path. There are some stairs and a few uneven rocks embedded in the path to navigate, but the short climb is well worth it. When you reach the wooden lookout deck, take a moment to soak in the beautiful view.
After exploring, treat yourself to Thunder Bay’s most famous sweet, a Persian from The Persian Man. Soft, cinnamon-spiced and topped with pink icing, it’s been a local favourite for decades. It’s the kind of treat that always tastes better after a morning spent outdoors.
To wrap up your day, stop by The Industry Social House, where modern pub food pairs brilliantly with creative cocktails. A local favourite and must try is the Hot Honey Dill Chicken Sandwich for a little kick or their delicious Oxtail Lasagna that’ll warm you right up after hitting the trails! Their cocktail menu is quite extensive but a standout during out visit was the Hard Start, a smooth and sweet coffee liqueur based drink that is smoked table-side. The Industry Social House is a laid-back spot to relax, refuel and toast to a day well spent in Thunder Bay.
Adventure Tastes Better Up North
In Thunder Bay, every trail leads to something tasty. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, climbing lookouts or walking forest paths, there’s always a place nearby to eat, sip and unwind.
Here, playing hard and eating well go together. So grab your boots, bring your appetite and let Thunder Bay show you how sweet adventure can be.
