Discover the natural beauty of North Bay along the Kinsmen Trail, a scenic multi-use trail system right in the heart of the city that follows Chippewa Creek as it meanders down the escarpment and empties into Lake Nipissing. Ideal for walking, running, cycling, and snowshoeing, the 7km trail provides a peaceful escape and a chance to experience Northern Ontario’s landscapes up close. Its gentle terrain and well-marked paths make it accessible for families, casual walkers, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The trail is also home to the 3.2 km Chippewa Creek Eco Path that winds along the creek, showcasing wetlands, wildlife, and interpretive signage about local ecosystems between Thompson Park to Lake Nipissing. This eco-friendly segment allows visitors to experience North Bay’s natural heritage up close while enjoying a serene, accessible pathway for walking, running, or cycling. It is this section that also connects to the Kate Pace Way via a free-span bridge over Main Street East.
A highlight along the Kinsmen Trail/ Chippewa Creek Eco Path is the Miskwaadesi Painted Turtle Amphitheatre, a culturally significant site celebrating Indigenous heritage. Featuring a granite turtle petroform, interpretive signage, cedar posts in Medicine Wheel colours, and seven stones representing the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the space offers visitors a chance to reflect, learn, and connect with the land and Indigenous culture while enjoying the natural surroundings.
In every season, the Kinsmen Trail offers something special. Spring and summer bring vibrant greenery and wildlife, autumn paints the trail with fiery reds and golds, and winter transforms it into a quiet, snow-covered path perfect for snowshoeing.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic outdoor adventure, a family outing, or a quiet place to connect with nature, the Kinsmen Trail, including the Chippewa Creek EcoPath and the Miskwaadesi Amphitheatre, delivers a welcoming, year-round experience that highlights both North Bay’s natural beauty and cultural richness.