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Fort Creek Conservation Area: Nature's Tranquil Escape

Discover Sault Ste. Marie's natural beauty at Fort Creek Conservation Area: trails, wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities in a tranquil urban setting.

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Fort Creek Conservation Area, a 191-acre green space in Sault Ste. Marie, offers a tranquil escape with hiking trails, a dam and reservoir, and diverse wildlife. Originally purchased for flood control, it now provides year-round recreational opportunities and a vital habitat for local flora and fauna.

A brief summary to Fort Creek Conservation Area

Local tips

  • Check the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) website for trail updates and closures before your visit.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for local wildlife along the trails.
  • In winter, dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
  • Follow trail etiquette: stay on marked paths, pack out all trash, and keep dogs on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Second Line East and Peoples Road, walk east along Second Line East for approximately 1 km. The entrance to Fort Creek Conservation Area will be on your right,look for the driveway just past the Finnish Rest Home. Note that the entrance is not well-signed.

  • Public Transport

    Sault Ste. Marie Transit provides bus service along Second Line East. Check the Sault Ste. Marie Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop on Second Line East, follow the walking directions above to the conservation area entrance. A single fare is around $3.00 CAD.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the Sault Ste. Marie Airport (YAM), a taxi or ride-share to Fort Creek Conservation Area will cost approximately $45 CAD. The drive is about 19 km. Tell your driver to take you to 1100 Fifth Line East, Sault Ste. Marie. Note that pre-booking is recommended.

Unlock the Best of Fort Creek Conservation Area

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Discover more about Fort Creek Conservation Area

Escape the city bustle at Fort Creek Conservation Area, a 77-hectare (191 acres) oasis offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Established to address flood control concerns with the construction of the Fort Creek Dam between 1968 and 1971, the area has evolved into a beloved green space for locals and tourists alike. The dam itself created an 8-acre reservoir. Explore diverse trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing. The area is part of the John Rowswell Hub Trail, a 25 km multi-use path connecting key city attractions. Note that a section of the Plateau Trail is currently closed due to safety concerns. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including beavers, skunks, hares, and various bird species. The area also supports Monarch butterflies, with milkweed plants providing essential habitat for their caterpillars. In winter, enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing. The dam and reservoir contribute to the area's unique landscape, while wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem. The area provides a glimpse into the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Forest, with reforestation efforts showcasing native trees like pine, cedar, and maple. Whether you're seeking a peaceful hike, a family picnic, or a winter adventure, Fort Creek Conservation Area offers something for everyone.

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