If you look out into the distance while in Fort Frances, Ontario and see a woman in the water – don’t panic! This small town has a very interesting landmark, a mermaid statue that is only accessible by boat.

Here’s what to do while visiting this northern Ontario gem.

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Let’s start with the statue! The Rainy Lake Mermaid was constructed in the 1930s out of steel rods, old boat propellers, and cement.

The mermaid sits upon a rock in the middle of Rainy Lake and according to the town is “said to watch over the comings and goings of the lake.”

If you want to take a dip in the water, head to Point Park. Visitors can stroll under the oak trees and take a dip in the clean, clear waters of the lake with access points along the park.

There is also a local ice cream shop at the waterfront too!

If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out the lookout tower as found at the Fort Frances waterfront.

Climbing this tower isn’t for the faint of heart, standing 100 feet tall. According to Fort Frances, “the tower was originally a radar and lookout tower located near Atkikokan and was moved to Point Park in 1972 as a tourist attraction.”

In 2009 the tower was moved from Point Park to the town marnia.

And finally, be sure to check out the Noden Causeway. The Causeway is a series of “island-hopping bridges seven km east of town.”

The three-and-a-half-mile long bridge marked the completion of Highway 11, linking Fort Frances to Atikokan, the Lakehead, and the rest of the country!

For Frances, you’re a little slice of paradise.

Taylor Lucas

Associate Editor – Taylor is a Toronto-based journalist with a passion for storytelling. Whether chasing a story, writing, or editing, she brings a creative spin to the media world and has a blast doing it. Taylor brings years of journalism experience in sports, local/national news, and entertainment. In her spare time, you can typically find Taylor trying out a new restaurant or cocktail bar, cooking, golfing or binge-watching true crime documentaries.

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