SAULT STE. MARIE WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Baawaating by Foot: An Indigenous-Led Walk Through Waters, Islands and Memory
A 4-hour, Indigenous-led walking experience in Sault Ste. Marie that combines storytelling, scenic viewpoints, fire and cedar tea to explore traditional routes, the locks, and paths toward reconciliation.
Baawaating by Foot: An Indigenous-Led Walk Through Waters, Islands and Memory.
Discover Baawaating’s waters and islands on an Indigenous-led journey that weaves storytelling, lived history and cultural practice into the landscape of one of the Great Lakes’ most storied waterways. The walk moves between shoreline viewpoints and island settings, anchored by shared fire, cedar tea and conversation about traditional travel routes, the locks and local Indigenous connections.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Indigenous-led storytelling and cultural context
Guides lead the group through histories and contemporary perspectives tied to Baawaating, offering cultural insights and conversations about reconciliation as you travel along water and island sites.
Fireside sharing and cedar tea
The experience includes time around a fire for food sharing and cedar tea, moments designed to slow the pace, anchor storytelling and invite group reflection on place.
Waterfront viewpoints and island visits
Walks take in scenic views of the waterways and islands and include discussion of traditional travel routes and the nearby locks as part of the broader story of the region.
What the day feels like
What the walk feels like
Over roughly four hours you move at a walking pace across uneven natural terrain between shoreline and island stops. The rhythm alternates short hikes and pauses for stories, viewpoints and communal moments around fire where cedar tea and food are shared. Conversation ranges from traditional travel routes to the industrial presence of the locks and contemporary reflections on Indigenous connections to this place.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this walk suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a four-hour walking experience that moves between shoreline and island settings.
Be prepared for uneven natural terrain and varying weather conditions—wear sturdy footwear and layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
Please advise the operator in advance of mobility needs, dietary needs, or other accessibility requests so accommodations can be explored.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The walking tour lasts approximately four hours.
Who can join this tour?
All ages are welcome; children 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and the experience is recommended for ages 8+ to fully enjoy the storytelling.
What will we do on the walk?
Expect Indigenous-led storytelling, scenic viewpoints, time around a fire with cedar tea and food sharing, and discussions about traditional travel routes, the locks and Indigenous connections to the area.
Do I need to be fit or have special gear?
Guests should be comfortable walking on uneven natural terrain and spending time outdoors in varying weather conditions; sturdy footwear and layered clothing are recommended.
What if I have mobility or dietary needs?
Please advise the operator in advance of mobility needs, dietary needs, or accessibility requests so accommodations can be explored.
Who operates the tour?
The walk is operated by Thrive Tours in Sault Ste. Marie and focuses on Baawaating’s waters and islands with Indigenous-led interpretation.