Nature and Wildlife

Laura Howe Marsh

Discover the rich biodiversity of the Laura Howe Marsh, a restored wetland home to more wildlife than any other Ontario habitat. Thanks to community efforts and support from the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, the marsh now thrives as a haven for fish, amphibians, deer, birds and more. Explore the short 0.4 km loop or the longer 2 km trail to take in its natural beauty year-round. 

 

Trails

Dryden Urban Trail System 12.3 km

The Urban Trail System is a network of five attractive, intra-city routes that provide safe and enjoyable pedestrian access to commercial and residential neighbourhoods, and community facilities & services. This trail incorporates urban landscapes, interconnecting roads, sidewalks, and pathways. Residents and visitors can walk, explore, and enjoy the community. During your journey you can stop and visit the Dryden & District Museum, the Dryden Public Library, or one of nine community parks. The Urban Trail also incorporates opportunities to stop and shop.

Dryden Signature Trail 5.4 km

The Dryden Signature Trail System consists of two trail routes, uniquely designed to provide hands-on, engaging, intriguing, recreational/interpretative encounters to capture the imagination of community residents and visitors. The Signature Trail route follows along the Wabigoon River, from Johnston Park on the Trans-Canada Highway 17, through Cooper Park and Laura Howe Marsh, ending at the newly expanded trail located beside the waterfront at the end of Van Horne Avenue.

The Nature in the City Trail 6.8 km

The Nature in the City Trail System is a beautiful “necklace” of trails that link together all the differing natural areas surrounding the city core. The rich assembly of natural settings is the City’s most valuable outdoor recreational asset. One can divide this trail into smaller sections or traverse the entire system, providing excellent opportunities for short or extended walking/hiking/jogging or cycling & skiing.

Flat Rock to Sandy Beach Trail

Beginning at Flat Rock, stroll this quick but scenic route that follows the Wabigoon Lake shoreline and brings you directly to Sandy Beach. If you’re just finishing up a round of golf or a baseball game, this trail gives you the opportunity to stretch your legs and unwind. Listen to the lovely sounds of waves hitting the shoreline and take in the views of the lake through the trees.

Hunting and Shooting

Dryden is a prime base for your next hunting adventure. Whether you're after moose, bear, deer, birds, or small game, there's a spot for you in the surrounding wilderness. Book a guided or unguided experience a local camp operator like Bonny Bay Camp - and don't miss the legendary "Dryden Buck" at the Museum. Be sure to call ahead of your visit to confirm he is not out on tour with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry staff. Dryden is also home to the Dryden Rifle and Pistol Club and the Dryden District Conservation Club ideal places to develop and practice sport shooting. 

 

Mountain Biking

woman riding a mountain bike on a trail during the fall

Photo: Chris Marchand

Dryden offers a range of well-maintained trails for mountain biking, hiking and fat biking. With options for all skill levels, the area is ideal for both casual outdoor explorers and seasoned riders. Beyond the trails, the gravel roads and scenic backcountry routes surrounding Dryden make it a prime destination for gravel biking, combining rolling terrain, quiet rural roads, and access to boreal forest and lake views. Riders can enjoy long-distance adventures on smooth gravel stretches or test their endurance on more rugged paths, all while experiencing the natural beauty and tranquility of Northwestern Ontario. Whether you're walking, biking or snow riding, Dryden has a trail or a road for every season

The local Dryden Ghost Riders Mountain Bike Club, a volunteer-driven organization, maintains a network of singletrack and multi-use trails around the Ghost Lake and Mavis Lake areas. Highlights include The Boneyard, an accessible loop through mature jack pine forest, and the Ferguson Trail, a black diamond route showcasing classic Canadian Shield riding. The club’s work relies on dedicated volunteers and community support, helping ensure that both residents and visitors can enjoy a high-quality trail experience for years to come. Visitors are encouraged to support the Ghost Riders through donations or by volunteering, contributing directly to the sustainability of this much-loved trail network. In winter, many trails are groomed by the volunteers for fat biking, making it easy to enjoy your favourite routes year-round. To learn more or get involved, visit the Dryden Ghost Riders Mountain Bike Club on Facebook.

 

 

Aaron Provincial Park

Located on the south shores of Thunder Lake, Aaron Provincial Park is a peaceful, family-friendly campground operated by the City of Dryden in partnership with Ontario Parks, just off the Trans-Canada Highway, the park offers easy accessing to camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, and paddling. With low light pollution and scenic lakefront views, it's also a top spot to experience the Northern Lights. The area holds cultural and historical significance, once used by Indigenous peoples for food gathering and travel. Whether you're staying overnight or stopping in for the day, Aaron Park has something for everyone to enjoy. 

Features 

  • 93 Camp sites & group camp sites
  • 54 Electrical sites
  • Roped in swimming area
  • Canoe rentals
  • Pavillion with BBQ area
  • Hiking trails
  • Frozen treats at gatehouse 

Reservations: Can be made online at ontariopark.ca or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275).