Autumn North of the Soo: Chippewa Falls & Pancake Bay

In autumn 2023 I took my new Helix folding bike north of Sault Ste. Marie, chasing colour and quiet. This post shares some of my favourite photos from two stops—Chippewa Falls and Pancake Bay Provincial Park—along with a quick sense of each place for anyone planning or contemplating their own Lake Superior adventure.

Pancake Bay Provincial Park - September 23, 2023

Chippewa Falls

About an hour north of Sault Ste. Marie on Highway 17, Chippewa Falls is a fantastic roadside rest stop: A rushing cascade beside a small park, with rocks to climb and short paths that make it as easy or as challenging as you’d like to stretch your legs and frame a few shots. It’s also home to the “halfway point” plaque of the Trans-Canada Highway (something to check off your road trip bucket list while enjoying the roar of the water and the golden maples in October).

Chippewa Falls - October 1, 2023

Pancake Bay Provincial Park

​Pancake Bay is famous for its long sweep of fine sand and clear blue water, with over 3 km of beach curving along Lake Superior. From the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout section of the park’s trail network, you get broad, high views over the bay (perfect for taking in the layered hills of autumn colours and watching the effect of shifting wind patterns on Lake Superior). I explored the Edmund Fitzgerald Trail with my Helix bike, cycling most of it and portaging over rocky stretches when needed. These rocky stretches are where the Helix’s weight of just over 20 lbs was especially beneficial.

Edmund Fitzgerald Trail (Vertical Photos) - September 23, 2023

Edmund Fitzgerald Trail (Horizontal Photos) - September 23, 2023

Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout - September 23, 2023

Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout - September 23, 2023

Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Photos Through Prizm Tungsten Polarized Sunglasses
​September 23, 2023

​Why I Love These Stops

Both places reward unhurried minutes: Beautiful rocks by the falls, shifting wind patterns on Lake Superior, vibrant autumn colours, fresh air, secluded sylvan retreats, and the meditative sound of water. Northern Ontario in autumn feels spacious—fewer people, more sky, and expansive views. 

Secluded Sylvan Retreat - Pancake Bay Provincial Park - September 23, 2023

Secluded Waterfall - Pancake Bay Provincial Park - September 23, 2023

Sources & Additional Information

• Pancake Bay Provincial Park — Ontario Parks
• Edmund Fitzgerald Trail Map — Ontario Parks
• Chippewa Falls — Lake Superior Circle Tour
• Trans-Canada Highway Halfway-Point Plaque at Chippewa Falls — Northern Ontario Travel
• Chippewa Falls — Superior Hiking

Note: All photos in this post were taken by me with an iPhone 13 Mini.