Georgian Bay Biosphere Region
Located on Anishinabek territory and includes Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 and Williams Treaty of 1923
Home to the largest freshwater archipelago on Earth, the Georgian Bay Biospheres 30,000 islands offer unparalleled opportunities to experience nature’s beauty and discover vibrant wildlife habitats.
Statistics
Country: Canada
Province: Ontario
Established: 2004
Geographical Features: World’s largest freshwater archipelago of more than 30,000 islands, rivers and estuaries, rugged shorelines, sandy beaches, gorges and rapids, Canadian Shield, deciduous forests
Best Ways to Explore: Canoeing, Hiking, Cycling, Forest Bathing, Mountain Biking, Kayaking, Sailing, Windsurfing
Best Time to Visit: May to Early October
Top Locations to Explore: Killbear PP, French River PP, Parry Sound, Georgian Bay Islands NP
Closest City: Toronto, Ontario
Follow the Georgian Bay Biosphere on all the below social links!
A map of the Georgian Bay Biosphere
“Our biosphere encompasses the eastern coast of Georgian Bay and stretches approximately 175 kilometres from the Severn River to the French River. This part of Lake Huron contains the largest collection of freshwater islands in the world.”
Biodiversity Conservation
Saving Turtles in the Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere
The Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere is home to at-risk turtles like the Blanding’s Turtle, Snapping Turtle, Midland Painted Turtle, and Northern Map Turtle. But these ancient creatures face serious threats: habitat loss and road mortality.
Wetlands and shorelines, critical turtle habitats, are disappearing due to development. Roads cutting through these areas put turtles—especially females searching for nesting sites—at risk of being hit by vehicles. This is why the Biosphere’s turtle conservation efforts are so vital.
In 2024, the Biosphere team collected over 1,000 turtle eggs, safeguarding future generations from predators and habitat destruction! Mitigation strategies like road fencing guide turtles safely across roads, while rip-rap installations prevent nesting in hazardous areas. These efforts are critical to safeguarding turtles, which play a vital role in maintaining healthy wetlands and ecosystems.
A Northern Map Turtle sunbathes on a log
Want to make a difference while visiting? Learn how to help protect turtles and report sightings. Together, we can ensure these ecosystems thrive for generations to come.
The Georgian Bay Biosphere has collaborated with Laurentian University, Shawanaga First Nation, Moose Deer Point First Nation, and the Township of The Archipelago on this project.
Regenerative Tourism
Contribute to Citizen Science
with iNaturalist
Get involved in citizen science and explore nature in a whole new way with iNaturalist! The app lets you record and share your observations of plants, animals, and fungi, contributing to global biodiversity research. Every photo you upload helps scientists track species and monitor ecosystems. It's a fun, interactive way to volunteer for conservation efforts while discovering the natural world around you.
Some of the species we saw in the Georgian Bay Biosphere include: Tall Goldenrod, Northern Red Oak, White Oak, Eastern White Pine, Winterberry Holly, Meadow Buttercup, Trumpet Lichen, Rock Harlequin, Smooth Rock Tripe, Grey Reindeer Lichen, Western Poison Ivy, and many types of fungi!
Follow Biosphere Bathing on iNaturalist to get live updates on species we see in Biosphere Regions across North America.
Documenting berries in Killbear PP
Volunteer for the Ontario Owl Survey
with Birds Canada
Experience the magic of the Georgian Bay Biosphere while contributing to conservation! This initiative relies on volunteers to monitor nocturnal owl populations like the Barred Owl, Great Grey Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl in Northern and Central Ontario.
Why do owls need our help? As key indicators of forest health, owls reveal how habitat changes, like logging, affect ecosystems. By volunteering, you’ll assist in gathering crucial data to protect their habitats and ensure sustainable forest management.
Each April, surveyors spend one evening using recorded owl calls along scenic roadside routes. Training materials and full support are provided, making it easy for anyone to join. There are many routes available in the Georgian Bay Biosphere.
Volunteering for the Owl Survey is not just a chance to make a difference—it’s an unforgettable experience connecting you to the natural beauty of Georgian Bay. Learn how you can become part of this impactful project and support owl conservation today - head to the Birds Canada website for more information.
Count the birds at your feeder
with Birds Canada
Looking for a cozy way to support bird conservation this winter? Join Project FeederWatch with Birds Canada! From November to April, simply count the birds that visit your yard or balcony and report your observations. Your data helps track bird populations and supports vital conservation efforts. No experience or feeder is necessary—everyone is welcome!
Sign up today to enjoy birdwatching from the comfort of your home while making a meaningful contribution to science.
Outdoor Recreation
Forest Bathing in the Georgian Bay Biosphere
Forest Bathing is a Japanese practice known as Shinrin-yoku, where one fully immerses themselves in the forest, away from the noise and chaos of daily life, allowing one to be fully present in their surroundings.
One of the most scenic and beautiful locations to go forest bathing in the Georgian Bay Biosphere is the McCrae Lake Conservation Area. The reserve features diverse landscapes, including wetlands and forests, and is home to rare vegetation communities, providing a serene backdrop for forest bathing. The trail winds through maple forests and over the rugged Canadian Shield, offering a peaceful environment for reflection and connection with nature.
To fully experience the tranquility of the area, consider visiting during weekdays or in October, when the vibrant fall colors are at their peak and visitor numbers are lower. This timing enhances the forest bathing experience, allowing for deeper immersion in the natural surroundings.
Hike the Coastline of Killbear Provincial Park
A visit to the Georgian Bay Biosphere is not complete without spending some time in Killbear Provincial Park. The park features some gorgeous short hiking trails, each under 5km and relatively flat. You can start by taking the Lookout Point Trail which is a 3.7km loop that gives you gorgeous views above the bay and a glimpse at the archipelago beyond. With over 30,000 islands, the Georgian Bay is an incredible ecosystem to gaze upon.
Our favourite hiking trail was the Twin Points Trail, built by the Friends of Killbear, the trail takes you along the rocky coastline and gives you breathtaking views of the bay. Watch the sun rise over the archipelago while early morning birds fly overhead. The trail is dotted with brightly coloured wildflowers such as the Tall Goldenrod and berries such as the Winterberry Holly.
Check out these trails and more in the AllTrails app.
“You hear the water trickling under your canoe as you glide over lily pads and cruise past beaver lodges, Dragonflies skim the water’s surface as your paddle glides through tranquil waters, And you sail past turtles sunbathing on submerged logs, Watching the seagrass sway peacefully with the current, Fluorescent green trees line the shoreline dotted with toffee apple trees along the water’s edge.
A new take on Forest Bathing: River Bathing.”
Canoe the French River
Tucked at the northern tip of Lake Huron, French River Provincial Park is a breathtaking expanse of interconnected waterways, rugged cliffs, and lush forests. This iconic Canadian Heritage River is steeped in history, having served as a vital trade route for First Nations, fur traders, and explorers.
The best way to experience the park? By canoe. Rent one from Hartley Bay Marina and set off on a tranquil journey through serene channels, past hidden islands, and along rocky shorelines. With designated campsites along the way, an overnight paddle offers the perfect blend of adventure and peace. Fall asleep under a blanket of stars, cradled by the quiet embrace of the wilderness.
Sail Through the Hole in the Wall
There’s no better way to explore the stunning archipelago of Georgian Bay than by sailboat, with the wind in your hair and the sparkling waters at your fingertips.
Parry Sound, nestled in the heart of the Georgian Bay Biosphere (and home to the Biosphere office!), is the perfect launch point for your adventure. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a total novice, the bay offers something unforgettable. We tried our hand at Discover Sailing with Larry from Diamond Waters Sailing, and lucky for us, being the off-season, it ended up being just the 2 of us for this experience!
A highlight? Cruising through the iconic Hole in the Wall, a narrow passage between two islands. Here, the dramatic rock formations of the islands take centre stage, a testament to the unique beauty of the region.
For a more budget-friendly option, hop aboard the Island Queen Cruise, which offers a breathtaking tour through Parry Sound and the Hole in the Wall. This is one adventure you’ll want to check off your bucket list!
Discover a new way to explore
Make a meaningful contribution next time you travel by participating in local volunteer activities such as:
Documenting species in iNaturalist
Surveying owls with Birds Canada
Counting the birds at your feeder with Birds Canada
Can’t travel right now but still want to contribute? Consider donating to any of the above organisations to support their ongoing work!
We hope you feel inspired to visit the Georgian Bay Biosphere!
Already been to the Georgian Bay Biosphere? Tag us in your photos on Instagram @biospherebathing for a chance to be featured!
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