Top 10 Indigenous Experiences on Manitoulin Island

Canada is filled with fascinating Indigenous experiences, and the Great Spirit Circle Trail of Manitoulin Island in Ontario stands out as an exceptional destination. This tour takes you around the largest freshwater island in the world, where the Anishinabek Peoples have traded and settled for thousands of years.

The Anishinabek Nation comprises the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Peoples, who warmly welcome visitors to share their rich culture.

The Anishinabek People of Manitoulin Island

Canada’s First Nations People serve as the foundation of our country, yet too many of us remain uninformed about their histories and contributions.

There is a reason for this lack of awareness. For over a century, the First Nations’ culture faced repression, and its people were forced to live separately from mainstream society.

1. A Dark History of Residential Schools

Dave and I recently learned about residential schools that were operating in Ontario until the 1990s. These schools, funded by the government, were run by Christian, Catholic, and Anglocan churches.

These institutions removed Indigenous children from their families, forbade them from speaking their native languages, and stripped them of their cultural identities. Widespread abuse occurred, and many children suffered severe trauma or even death within the system.

Recently, the Aboriginal Culture has begun to heal. Indigenous people are now preserving their heritage and reintegrating their languages and customs into everyday life.

Our tour greatly enriched our understanding, resulting not just in newfound knowledge but also in meaningful friendships.

2. Great Spirit Circle Trail

If you’re interested in experiencing Indigenous culture in Canada, the Great Spirit Circle Trail on Manitoulin Island is a must-visit destination. There are seven reserves on Manitoulin Island, all ready to share their traditions with you.

During our visit, we were moved by the sincerity, spirituality, and generosity of the Indigenous peoples. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture while making new friends along the way! Our experiences here rank among our most memorable cultural adventures globally.

3. Ojibwe Cultural Foundation

Visitors can easily get lost for hours in this museum that showcases a teaching lodge, Aboriginal art, and historical artifacts pertaining to the Anishinaabe people. Our guide, Falcon, made the experience even more captivating by sharing insights about their culture.

After exploring the museum, you can cross the street to visit Lillian’s Arts and Crafts, where you can purchase Aboriginal arts and visit a small museum located in the back.

4. Local Church Visit

A stop at the Church of Immaculate Conception provides an intriguing blend of Indigenous spirituality and Christianity. The church features a circular design reminiscent of a teepee, with seating arranged in a circle around the altar. The beautiful wooden door, adorned with intricate animal carvings, was particularly captivating.

5. Medicine Walk and Talk

Although there are numerous hiking trails and activities on the island, hiring a local Anishinaabe guide provides valuable insights into the region’s history.

During the guided experience, participants will learn about various ceremonies, including the smudging ceremony and the tobacco ceremony as a way to give thanks to Mother Earth. Furthermore, they will hear the legends that shape the local culture.

Indigenous cultures worldwide, including the Anishinaabe People, utilize local plant life for herbs and medicine. A guide will explain the uses of several plants found in the forest and provide a richer experience than walking the scenic trails alone.

6. Cup and Saucer Trail

Despite engaging in various adventures, each experience tied back to the vibrant Aboriginal culture, and hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail was a highlight.

This challenging hike features rocky staircases and cliffside trails, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from 70 meters above the island.

At the peak, we participated in a tobacco ceremony to express gratitude for the earth, sprinkling raw tobacco on a rock while saying, “Meegwich,” which means thank you.

7. Song and Dance Performance

Watching the Rolling Thunder Dance Traditions, complemented by vocal and drum performances, became the highlight of our visit to Manitoulin Island. You can arrange for a private dance performance through the Great Spirit Circle Trail, providing an opportunity to converse with the performers and gain deeper insights into the meaning behind their dances and attire.

8. Bareback Horseback and Teepee Stay

Even though we have undertaken numerous trail rides during our travels, we had never experienced bareback riding until this Aboriginal excursion that takes you through the heart of Manitoulin Island. The adventure concludes with a bareback ride into a serene inland lake, allowing us to swim with the horses.

The day wraps up with a stay in a teepee, complemented by a hearty campfire meal and storytelling.

9. Evening Traditional Canoe

Enjoying an evening paddle through the heart of Manitoulin Island offers a truly traditional experience. The tour reveals the island’s history and local legends while you glide along the shoreline.

Each adventure includes traditional bannock and tea. Attending a private performance as part of our canoe tour was a privilege, as it combined relaxation, fun, and fascinating information.

10. Song of the Drum

Creating your very own traditional drum to take home is a unique experience, and learning about the drum’s history and significance in Aboriginal culture adds to its value.

The staff at the Great Spirit Circle Trail consists of accomplished performers and storytellers. While making drums in a traditional teepee, our guide, Steven, entertained us with jokes and storytelling, making us feel at ease while sharing detailed accounts of his Anishinabek heritage.

11. Smudging Ceremony

The smudging ceremony involves local herbs and tobacco placed in a bowl, generating smoke for cleansing purposes. As the smoke rises, it reaches the creator and ancestors, eliminating any negative energy experienced that day.

Participants pass the bowl around, silently spreading the smoke over their senses while performing their own prayers or affirmations. We participated in numerous smudging ceremonies throughout our time on Manitoulin Island.

During one such ceremony, we gave thanks to Lake Huon by sprinkling tobacco into its waters while saying “megwich.” Participation in this ceremony is voluntary, with no pressure to join.

12. Aboriginal Feast

The Aboriginal Feast offers a lively and engaging way to immerse oneself in First Nations culture. The meal begins with a smudging ceremony held around a campfire.

Then, participants sit in a circle to share what brought them to Manitoulin Island, fostering discussions about Aboriginal culture and personal stories, which creates wonderful bonding moments.

Concluding this experience at the end of the week helped everyone relax, share laughter, and solidify lifelong friendships.

See Our Full Great Spirit Circle Trail Experience on Manitoulin Island

When traveling to Canada, it’s crucial to engage in an Aboriginal experience. This culture is open to sharing their history and heritage with visitors, and its people are warm and welcoming.

With countless stories and talents to share, a visit with the Anishinabek People of Manitoulin guarantees not only cultural enrichment but also countless laughs and unforgettable moments.

We departed from Manitoulin Island with a deeper appreciation of our First Nations neighbors and new friends we hope to stay in touch with. We are already planning our return trip.

For more information about Manitoulin Island and the surrounding area, visit North Eastern Ontario Tourism.

• Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre – Little Current: This venue features an excellent dining area with a patio overlooking the harbor.

Food Options

• Anchor Inn – Little Current
• Season Family Restaurant – M’Chigeeng
• Gary’s Family Restaurant – Little Current

Our trip was facilitated by Outdoor Ontario as part of the Best of Ontario Outdoor Contest.