On the world’s largest freshwater island, they take the Great Spirit very seriously. For the people of the Ojibwa, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations, Manitoulin Island is a land so beautiful that the Great Spirit, the Father of Life, kept it for himself. Today, they welcome guests with a number of authentic Aboriginal experiences, providing an opportunity to learn about this unique island directly from its people.
The Great Spirit Circle Trail encompasses multi-faceted excursions that include the seven First Nations communities on the island. You can pick local teas, medicinal herbs, fruits, and plants; make bannock over open fires; or hike up a dramatic bluff with incredible views of the island and participate in a traditional tobacco ceremony. Walking tours visit heritage museums and galleries, and there are storytelling and craft workshops, singing and drumming circles, and overnight stays in tradÂitional tipis. Many guests combine an interest in Aboriginal history and culture with the outdoors, taking guided hikes, bicycle rides, and canoe trips on the lake, or horseback riding in the woods. There is nowhere else in the country quite like Manitoulin, a 2,766-square-kilometre island of fascinating culture, stunning natural beauty, and enormous spirit.
START HERE: canadianbucketlist.com/manitoulin