The park sits at the southern tip of Sibley Peninsula, a rocky finger of land poking into Lake Superior. The surprisingly varied terrain harbours an exceptional mix of plant life. More than 190 species of birds have been recorded, as have wolves and lynx. The bird observatory at Thunder Cape is popular, particularly during the fall migrations.

Deep-cut valleys and fast-flowing streams typify the peninsula’s landscape. Forests of pine and fir, aspen and birch still remain. In fact, Sleeping Giant was created to prevent the last mature stands of white and red pine from being clear-cut by lumberers.

A hike up to the giant’s knees and chest provides wonderful views across Thunder Bay and out toward Lake Superior. Along the way you will pass Superior’s highest cliffs, which drop almost 800 feet straight down. For hikes less strenuous than these, the park contains eight shorter trails, which range from a few hundred yards to about 1.5 miles.