In Kapuskasing, options range from a francophone festival and riverside trails to winter activities. The time of year is a useful starting point for planning your trip: some offerings are tied to specific dates, while other trails are used year-round. This way, you can plan your stay around a set date or the activities you’d like to enjoy.
Festival and seasonal market
The Festival de la St-Jean de la région de Kapuskasing takes place every year on the third weekend of June. Its program includes sociocultural activities and francophone music. Since dates can change from year to year, check the festival dates for your travel year before planning your stay.
The Kapuskasing Farmers' Market takes place on Saturdays at Ash Place, from the August long weekend through the Thanksgiving weekend. Local farmers and artisans showcase and sell their goods there. Here, too, it’s worth checking the dates and venue for your planned visit before you travel, as the schedule and venue may change.
Trails along the river and around the park
The Loop is a 5 km circular route around Kapuskasing used for walking and running. It passes along the main roads of Riverside, Byng, Brunetville, Brunelle North and Government Road. If you’re looking for a differently laid-out route, the trail to Sturgeon Falls—also known as Spruce Falls—is about 3 km long and follows one side of the Kapuskasing River. Its trailhead is at the intersection of Hemlock and Ash Street. The trail is suitable year-round for walking, running, mountain biking and snowshoeing. The distances describe two different types of routes: a loop on The Loop and a one-way trail to the falls.
In the Old Kap neighbourhood, Lovers' Lane follows the Kapuskasing River. The trail is suitable for walking, hiking, running, mountain biking, birdwatching and walking dogs. In Riverside Park, a paved trail leads into the bay and along the riverbanks; it’s suitable for walking, running, inline skating and cycling. In summer, a large play structure and a splash pad with colourful fountains and water sprayers add to the park’s offerings.
Winter trails and recreational activities
In winter, Murdock Hill is a popular gathering place for children and families who go sledding there on Crazy Carpets, sleds and sliders. The outdoor skating rink is on the hill across from André Cary Elementary School and has a warming hut. The Kap Nordic Skiers Club maintains ski and snowshoe trails; its chalet is at the end of Ash Street.
Another place to skate, curl and play hockey is the Sports Palace arena in Kapuskasing. These different winter activities offer a range of options: sledding at Murdock Hill, skating at the outdoor rink or in the arena, and the club’s ski and snowshoe trails.
Francophone culture and quiet breaks
The Centre régional de loisirs culturels de Kapuskasing offers performances, workshops and social activities to the francophone community. Its diverse program has been part of its offerings for more than 50 years. This gives the cultural side of your stay its own focus, extending beyond the June festival.
For a quieter break, you can sit by the fireplace with a book at the Kapuskasing Library. The La Forge Jos Godin Museum is on Brunetville Road and is currently closed. Check whether access is possible before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Timmins, Cochrane, Hearst, Iroquois Falls.
For the broader travel overview: Cochrane District.
