With lush greenery, rolling landscapes and wildlife all around, the province of Ontario is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're travelling solo, with your S/O or your family, get ready for a trip full of amazing views, abundant wildlife and great memories.
From the grazing deer at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park to the powerful birds at the Canadian Raptor Conservancy, there's something for every wildlife lover in Ontario. All you need to step out into nature is a good pair of hiking shoes, SPF and a backpack stuffed with your favourite snacks.
The best snacks to keep you fueled on your wildlife adventure are ones that are convenient, tasty and full of good stuff. Preparing sandwiches and packing fruit beforehand are solid options, but for the ultimate convenience, a granola bar like Nature Valley's Trail Mix bars really does the trick. With real cranberries, roasted nuts and whole-grain oats, these bars are made to help you conquer the trail.
Now that the weather is good and life in the province is beginning to feel more normal, there's no better time to plan a visit to one of these seven stunning parks.
Killarney Provincial Park
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Price: Up to $2 per person, plus parking fees.
Address: 960 Hwy. 637, ON
Why You Need To Go: Spead across 645 square kilometres, Killarney Provincial Park has everything from hiking trails and lakes to beaches and a camping ground. With wildlife like otters, beavers and moose, there's so much to see.
Whether this is your first or fiftieth trip to Killarney, you're bound to peep some of the prettiest nature scenes. Plus, the Historic Village of Killarney — a former fur trading post founded in 1820 — is nearby if you're looking for more to do in the area.
Neys Provincial Park
Price: Up to $2 per person, plus parking fees.
Address: 1004 Hwy. 17, ON
Why You Need To Go: There are flora and fauna aplenty at Neys Provincial Park, including some of Canada's best-known felines like lynx, bobcats and cougars. Everything from beginner-friendly, self-guided trails to more rugged terrain for experienced hikers makes Neys well suited for all types of nature goers.
Neys is also home to one of Ontario's finest sand beaches, which is a beautiful spot to take in the sunset with an indulgent snack like a Nature Valley Wafer Bar. These crisp wafers are filled with creamy peanut butter and topped with crunchy nuts for the perfect treat while you relax after an adventurous day.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Price: Up to $2 per person, plus parking fees.
Address: R.R. 1, Pass Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: With wildlife like deer, wolf, fox, lynx and over 200 species of birds, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is a must-see for anyone who loves seeing animals in the wild.
Each of the park's trails guides hikers along the shoreline of Lake Superior, and there are vistas that can be found at the top of the Giant for added sightseeing. The park also permits boating (including canoeing) and fishing, should you wish. to explore the park from the water.
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Price: $7.90
Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Rd., ON
Why You Need To Go: Everything from black bears to rare reptiles can be found among Bruce Peninsula National Park's cedar trees, orchids and ferns. And who knows what you might spot in its magical turquoise waters.
There's also plenty to do in and around the area, like exploring the charming town of Tobermory. And, if you're searching for a new perspective, there's a 65-foot lookout tower with views of Georgian Bay.
Quetico Provincial Park
Price: Up to $2 per person, plus parking fees.
Address: 108 Saturn Ave., ON
Why You Need To Go: Remote wilderness makes Quetico Provincial Park a must-see destination for any wildlife enthusiast. Pine and spruce forests, idyllic rivers and lakes, and larger-than-life rock cliffs can all be enjoyed while hiking along the 35-kilometres of wind through the park.
There's also over 200 bird species in Quetico, making it a major breeding ground for birds of all kinds including bald eagles and osprey. And in case you need an on-the-go snack, you can try Nature Valley's Protein Bars. With up to 15 grams of protein per bar and no gluten, they'll help keep you fuelled as you navigate your way through the park.
Ivanhoe Lake Provincial Park
Price: Up to $2 per person, plus parking fees.
Address: 5520 Hwy. 101 E., ON
Why You Need To Go: Ivanhoe Lake Provincial Park is perhaps best known for its white moose. Also called the spirit moose, if you're lucky you might just get a glimpse of this rare animal. The lake is also home to plenty of forest songbirds, including warblers and vireos whose songs can be heard thousands of times a day.
Ivanhoe's beach is a lovely spot to have a picnic or to take a dip in the warm, shallow waters. If you'd rather canoe the quiet waters of Saw or Teck Lake, you can do that too. Just be sure to bring your binoculars and camera in the event you see any animals (including the white moose) along the shoreline.
Canadian Raptor Conservancy
Price: Public photography sessions start at $65
Address: 2848 Front Rd., Vittoria, ON
Why You Need To Go: Get ready for a whole lot of fun as you watch eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, kestrels and vultures at the Canadian Raptor Conservancy. With a focus on conservation, learn everything and more about Canada's various birds of prey with educational live shows.
Located just 10 minutes south of Simcoe, the Canadian Raptor Conservancy's accessible location ensures you might visit more than once.
Whichever park you find yourself at this summer, you don't need to travel far to watch some wildlife and reconnect with nature. To help you stay fueled on your Ontario wildlife journey, throw a few Nature Valley granola bars in your pack.
If you're a photography enthusiast, check out Ontario Parks' guide to ethical wildlife photography, and respect all park rules and regulations, including health and safety guidelines.
To learn more about reconnecting with nature, check out Nature Valley's website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
For more stories from the Nature IRL series, check out the Nature Valley hub here.
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
Energy ratings for each activity are based on various factors, such as intensity and duration, with one being the least and five being the most.Please note that the ratings come from the Narcity Studio team and are not meant to be taken in an official capacity.
