Wawa
In the Ojibway language, the word ‘wawa’ means ‘wild goose’. This explains why the town of Wawa’s mascot is a giant goose statue. The Wawa Goose is perched on a large rock welcoming visitors at the junction of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 101.
Originally named Michipicoten (after the Michipicoten River), the town’s history spans back to the fur trading days, more recently serving as a hub for forestry, mining and boat-building industries.
Situated on the shores of Lake Wawa, near the vast expanse of Lake Superior, the town offers an endless array of outdoor activities nearby, such as kayaking, camping, snowmobiling and ice fishing. In fact, it’s host to one of Ontario’s most popular ice fishing events, the annual Wawa Ice Fishing Derby.
Where is Wawa?
The township of Wawa is located in the Algoma District on Wawa Lake, just east of Lake Superior. The town itself is located approximately a 20 minutes’ drive north of Lake Superior Provincial Park. The city centre can be found just east of Highway 17 along Highway 101.
Wawa is best explored by car, with some regional bus service provided by Ontario Northland. The town is also serviced by Wawa Airport.
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Things to do in Wawa
Take a selfie with the Wawa Goose
No visit to Wawa is complete without a selfie or two in front of the 8.5-metre-tall Wawa Goose statue, the town’s mascot and one of the most photographed landmarks in North America.
Enjoy live music
Held every summer, the Wawa Music Festival is a three-day event with local and regional musicians. Shows are held at the Lakeview Hotel, Legion Branch 429 and Lion’s Beach Pavilion.
Compete in a fishing derby
The annual Wawa Ice Fishing Derby takes place in late February and early March, while the Wawa Salmon Derby is held in August.
Admire the waterfalls
Wawa’s Magpie Scenic High Falls drops more than 22 metres across an expanse of rock 38 metres wide, just outside of town.
Go on a paddling adventure
Paddle Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater inland sea with a guided tour from Wawa’s Naturally Superior Adventures. Learn how to sea kayak or embark on a multi-day trip.
Learn about mining in Wawa
Wawa’s Mining Heritage Park, located just down the street from Lion’s Beach, features various artifacts and information of the town’s historic past as a centre for mining iron ore.
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Last updated: February 5, 2025