Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Great Spirit Circle Trail?

The Great Spirit Circle Trail is an Aboriginal owned organization dedicated to sharing tourism experiences featuring the rich lands, culture and heritage of the Ojibwe, Odawa and Pottawatomi people of the Manitoulin and Sagamok region of Northeastern Ontario.

The Great Spirit Circle Trail is a destination marketing organization and tour company offering authentic, affordable Aboriginal cultural and nature based tourism experiences in the Manitoulin and Sagamok region of Northeastern Ontario. 

When was The Great Spirit Circle Trail established?
Established in 1997, we have been sharing our brand of experiential learning vacations with groups, families and fully independent travelers from Canada and abroad.

Where is The Great Spirit Circle Trail located?

The Great Spirit Circle Trail represents tourism experiences available within 8 First Nations on Manitoulin Island and the Sagamok Region of northeastern Ontario.  (see map)

How do I get there?

Manitouin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world and is located approximately 5 hours by car from Toronto following Hwy 400 N to Hwy 69 N to Hwy 17 West to Hwy 6 South.  You can also reach Manitoulin Island via ferry from Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula which is approximately 3.5 hours by car from Toronto.  The ferry crossing is a comfortable 1 hour and 40 minute ride.

Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation is approximately 100 km west of Sudbury and approximately 200 km east of Sault Ste. Marie on Hwy 17. 

Communities within The Great Spirit Circle Trail are all located within a 250 km radius and are all accessible by road and water. 

Visitors can also fly into the Sudbury Regional Airport which is a 2 hour drive by car from Manitoulin.  There are also two charter airports on Manitoulin.

How do I book my group or my vacation?

The most efficient way to reach us is by phone or email.  One of our representatives would be happy to answer any questions you may have, provide an information package, and share further details about our suggested tour itineraries.

Our tollfree line is:  1-877-710-3211
Our telephone number is:  (705) 377-4404
You can reach us by fax at:  (705) 377-4425
Or by email at:

circletrail@circletrail.com

What kind of accommodations are available for my group?

Located on Manitoulin are a number of first rate resorts and lodges.   Our accommodations partners include standard motels which can accommodate bus groups and family groups, for those looking for more amenities - resorts with a meal plan, and for the more adventurous - cabins and camping accommodations.  We can assist with information on available accommodations, rates and bookings.

Are meals available as part of your suggested tour itineraries?

Although they are not included in any of the suggested tour itineraries, affordable and authentically Aboriginal menu suggestions are available.   Our regional cuisine is known for it’s bannock, fish, wild rice, corn soup, wild game dishes and berries although other mainstream menus can be suggested as well.  We can provide full menus and pricing as well as venues and or catering for your groups.

Can local ground transportation be provided if we are traveling by air or boat?

Certainly.  The Great Spirit Circle Trail can arrange local ground transportation from any port on Manitoulin or the Regional Airport in Sudbury at a reasonable cost.

Are translation services available for my group?

Depending on the language requested, The Great Spirit Circle Trail can source and provide skilled and knowledgeable interpretation services at a reasonable cost,  

Are there ways to include a stop on The Great Spirit Circle Trail with other destinations in Northern Ontario?

Manitoulin Island and Sagamok are conveniently located within a 2 hour drive of Sudbury and 3.5 hour drive of Sault Ste. Marie.  Our suggested tour itineraries are easily adapted to fit within a schedule which may include other destinations within Northern Ontario.

We can tailor our suggested itineraries to include an afternoon or overnite stay on Manitoulin and arrange for meals, over-nite accommodations and evening entertainment.  Let the Great Spirit Circle Trail handle all of the details for a fun and action packed half day or overnite stay on Manitoulin Island.

Does The Great Spirit Circle Trail offer educational tours geared to students?

Yes absolutely!  The Great Spirit Circle Trail offers custom tours geared to school groups based on learning outcomes identified by the teacher.  We can also suggest experiential hands on activities such as nature walks, cultural tours and performances and legends and storytelling sessions depending on your interests.  We cater to learners of all ages!

Can my group witness a powwow?

Depending on when you plan your trip, there may be a weekend Powwow within one of the First Nations within The Great Spirit Circle Trail.  If there isn’t, however, we can arrange for a fully interpreted Powwow performance including dancers in full regalia and a drum group to share the excitement and pageantry of the Powwow experience with your group.

Is it okay to take photographs?

Depending on the tour activity, there may be photography restrictions such as in an art gallery and museum setting but for the most part, pictures are most welcome as we recognize this is an important souvenir of your experiences.

What is the weather typically in your region?

You can count on balmy weather throughout the summer months with average temperatures anywhere from 25 C to 35 C.  Spring months are temperate with 15 to 20 as the norm and similar temperatures in the fall.  Rainy days are few and far between throughout the summer, but naturally increase in spring and fall – a rain slicker or all weather jacket is recommended.

Are there lots of mosquitos and black flies?

Mosquitos and black flies can be quite a nuisance in the evenings and early mornings throughout June, July and August.  However, with the proper precautions, visitors can still enjoy their outdoor and water based activities and camping adventures.  Indian summer – or September and into October are more idyllic for outdoor activities such as hiking, nature walks and biking.

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