Attractions and Places To See around Sables-Spanish Rivers - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around Sables-Spanish Rivers are found within a township in Northeastern Ontario, nestled in the La Cloche Mountain range. This region offers natural features such as the Aux Sables and Spanish Rivers, and various parks. Its communities, including Massey, Walford, and Webbwood, provide access to scenic landscapes and historical sites. The area is characterized by its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Sables-Spanish Rivers
- The most popular…
Last updated: October 2, 2026
Twin Bridges Trail
Highlight • Trail
Showing Translation
Tip by
Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Showing Translation
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Chutes Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Showing Translation
Tip by
Historic Railway Bridge over the Aux Sables Gorge
Highlight • Bridge
Showing Translation
Tip by
Heaven's Gate
Highlight • Monument
Showing Translation
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Sables-Spanish Rivers.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
In the 1870s, the Canadian Pacific Railway Company began building a railway line, the Soo Line, from Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie; it was part of the plan to build a railway line all the way to British Columbia. Later, it was decided to build the line further north, and the Soo Line became only a branch line. With the construction of the Sault Ste. Marie International Railroad Bridge over the St. Marys River to Michigan in 1887, a railway connection across the border was established, and the line gained a different significance. In 1882, the construction of the Soo Line reached the Aux Sables canyon; the settlement of Massey was created. The railway bridge was completed in 1883 and in 1907 was replaced by a steel bridge with load-bearing limestone piers. Sources: Information board at the viewing platform at Chutes Falls. https://ontariorailwaystations.wordpress.com/home/district-of-algoma/sault-ste-marie-railway-stations/ Between the railway bridge and Highway 17 (Trans-Canada-Highway) stands an inconspicuous, no longer used bridge from 1906. The Smythe Bridge was considered at the time to be the largest single-arch cement bridge in the world. (Visit on May 25, 2026)
0
0
The Seven Sisters Rapids are located upstream of Chutes Falls. Walking along the Twin Bridges Trail offers the best view of the rapids; in addition to the platform at Chutes Falls, there are two other excellent viewpoints upstream. From both bridges, you can also get a view of the rapids in the Aux Sables River. (Visit on May 25, 2026) https://waterfallsofontario.com/seven-sisters-rapids.php
0
0
The starting point of the Twin Bridges Trail is at the viewing platform of Chutes Falls - near the Chutes Provincial Park Campground. You can comfortably walk along a well-maintained path to the second footbridge over the Aux Sables River. Along the way, there is another viewing platform where you can get a view of the Seven Sisters Rapids. There are also individual paths leading to the river with a view of the rapids. The path on the east side of the Aux Sables River becomes a hiking trail with gentle ups and downs. Before the trail leaves the river and leads back to the bridge in a loop, you can take another look at the Chutes Falls from a viewing platform. (Visit on May 25, 2026) https://www.ontarioparks.ca/pdf/maps/chutes/chutes_twin_bridges.pdf
0
0
The waterfall on the Aux Sables River in Chutes Provincial Park has no official name; it is known as Chutes Falls, Main Falls, or The Chutes. The waterfall gets its name from a historic log chute (chutes) built in the early 1900s to allow logs to be run over the rocks in the Aux Sables River without damage. From the viewpoint on the river below the campground, you have an excellent view of the waterfall and the wide Aux Sables River downstream with a sandy beach. (Visited May 25, 2026)
0
0
The Heaven's Gate Nature Reserve is located in the La Cloche Range and was declared a nature reserve in 2022. It is protected by the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy. The opening ceremony was held on July 16, 2022, at Heaven's Gate / Kitchitwaa Shekwaandem near Gate 3 South on the Bay of Islands Drive and at the community hall in Whitefish Falls. (Visit on May 24, 2026) https://escarpment.ca/see-our-preserves/manitoulin-north-channel/heaven-s-gate The "Bridging the Gap" map illustrates the location of this nature reserve between La Cloche Ridge Provincial Reserve to the west and Killarney Provincial Park to the east: https://escarpment.ca/about/campaigns/save-la-cloche-mountains
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking trails in the Sables-Spanish Rivers area?
For a scenic walk, the Twin Bridges Trail in Chutes Provincial Park is highly recommended. It offers views of the Aux Sables River, Chutes Falls, and the Seven Sisters Rapids. For a more challenging and rugged experience, the 48 km Kitchitwaa Shkwaandem Trail (Heaven's Gate) winds through the La Cloche mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes that inspired the Group of Seven artists.
Are there any waterfalls to visit in Sables-Spanish Rivers?
Yes, the area is home to several beautiful waterfalls and rapids. The most prominent is Chutes Falls on the Aux Sables River, located within Chutes Provincial Park. Upstream from Chutes Falls, you can also find the Seven Sisters Rapids, which are best viewed from the Twin Bridges Trail.
What historical sites can I explore in the region?
You can visit the Historic Railway Bridge over the Aux Sables Gorge, a significant landmark from the 1880s Canadian Pacific Railway construction. The Massey Area Museum also offers a deep dive into local history with multiple themed exhibits. Additionally, the Heaven's Gate Nature Reserve, while primarily natural, holds historical significance as a protected area in the La Cloche Range.
Are there family-friendly activities available in Sables-Spanish Rivers?
Chutes Provincial Park is an excellent choice for families, offering a quiet campground, a sandy beach on the Aux Sables River, and easy hiking trails. Massey's Mouth Park also features a natural sand beach, a clay embankment slide, and areas for shoreline fishing and picnics, making it ideal for a family outing.
What natural features define the Sables-Spanish Rivers landscape?
The region is characterized by its stunning natural beauty, particularly the La Cloche Mountain range and the two rivers it's named after: the Aux Sables River and the Spanish River. You'll find scenic rock cliffs, sand beaches, and significant waterways known for paddling and fishing. Chutes Provincial Park and La Cloche Provincial Park showcase these features beautifully.
When is the best time to visit Sables-Spanish Rivers for outdoor activities?
The warmer months, from late spring to early fall, are ideal for hiking, paddling, and enjoying the beaches. However, Chutes Provincial Park is also accessible in winter for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking to see stunning frozen waterfalls and cataracts, offering a unique seasonal experience.
Can I go cycling in the Sables-Spanish Rivers area?
Yes, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail passes through the township, providing excellent opportunities for cycling. A suggested route includes a 32 km trip from Massey to Espanola, allowing you to explore the scenic surroundings on two wheels.
What is the significance of the La Cloche Mountains in this region?
The La Cloche Mountain range, approximately 1.8 billion years old, is a dominant natural landmark. Its distinctive white quartzite peaks have inspired visitors and artists, including the famous Group of Seven. The mountains form the backdrop for several natural attractions and challenging trails like the Kitchitwaa Shkwaandem Trail.
Are there any local events or cultural experiences?
The annual Massey Fair, held in late August at the Massey Fairgrounds, is a significant cultural event with a long-standing tradition. It features rides, contests, games, vendors, a crash-up car derby, and horse shows, offering a vibrant local experience.
Where can I see the Seven Sisters Rapids?
The Seven Sisters Rapids are located upstream of Chutes Falls on the Aux Sables River. The best way to view them is by walking along the Twin Bridges Trail within Chutes Provincial Park, which offers excellent viewpoints.
What is Heaven's Gate?
Heaven's Gate, also known as Kitchitwaa Shkwaandem, is a Nature Reserve located in the La Cloche Range. It was declared a nature reserve in 2022 and is protected by the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy, offering a rugged and scenic natural experience.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
