Wawa Goose

Imagine a majestic bird frozen in flight over the vast stretches of Ontario—this is the famous Wawa Goose. This unique art installation is a giant nine-meter statue of a Canada goose, which has become a true landmark proudly presented by Wawa. Weighing in at approximately 2,600 kg, this impressive metal structure is one of the largest sculptures of its kind in the world.

Situated on a pedestal along Mission Road, this attraction is a must-stop for anyone crossing Canada via the famous Trans-Canada Highway. The statue's realistic form and imposing size highlight the northern region's close connection to wildlife and its rich fauna—specifically the migratory birds that call these parts home.

Despite being outdoors and constantly exposed to the changing weather, the monument is kept in immaculate condition thanks to regular restorations. The statue is highly rated by travelers, who value it as an excellent backdrop for photos and a symbol of small-town Canadian hospitality.

If you need additional information about visiting this location or want to clarify details regarding travel routes in the region, you can use the official contact channels of the town's tourism center.

The main attraction that brings thousands of tourists here is, of course, a photo op with the giant bird. The figure is crafted with such detail that in photographs, it appears as though the massive goose is truly soaring above you. Families with children especially love this spot: for the little ones, the statue looks like a fairytale character from a book. You can step onto the pedestal to find the most interesting angles or capture a panoramic shot against the backdrop of dense forests and the northern sky.

Beyond photography, it is worth taking the time to explore the information plaques located nearby. They tell stories not only about the sculpture itself but also about the cultural characteristics of the region. During the summer months, the area around the Goose becomes a venue for small local festivals and picnics, where you can experience the true spirit of provincial Canada. If your visit falls in the evening, you will see the statue illuminated by artistic lighting, making it visible from afar.

For those passing through as part of a larger tour, this is a wonderful opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a change of scenery. Cozy cafes are located nearby, where you can try local dishes, as well as souvenir shops offering miniature replicas of the famous Goose. In winter, the location transforms into a snowy fairytale, offering a completely different, peaceful atmosphere for nature contemplation.

The famous landmark is located at 93 Mission Rd, right at the intersection with the busy Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17). For those traveling by car from cities like Sudbury or Thunder Bay, the statue serves as a perfect landmark and rest stop. There is free parking available nearby, which easily accommodates both cars and tour buses.

If you prefer public transport, Greyhound and Ontario Northland buses stop in the town. From the bus station, you can walk to the giant bird in about 10–15 minutes, enjoying the quiet atmosphere of provincial Canada. The nearest major airport is in Thunder Bay, which is about a three-hour drive away.

During the summer, many tourists prefer to rent bicycles to explore the surroundings. In winter, keep weather conditions in mind: the road to the monument is always cleared, but winter tires and caution on snowy highways are essential for safe travel through the region.

Interestingly, the name of the town Wawa translates from a local dialect as "wild goose" or the sound imitating its call. The idea to install the monument emerged in the early 1960s as a bold marketing move by local businessmen. They wanted to draw tourists' attention to the small settlement, which at the time relied mainly on iron ore mining.

The first version of the Wawa Goose was installed in 1963 and was made of steel and concrete. It became an instant hit, turning into a symbol of Northern Ontario. However, the harsh Canadian climate gradually damaged the structure, and by the 1990s, the question of its replacement arose. The monument acquired its modern look in 1999 thanks to sculptor Peter Hutton. The new figure, made of high-strength aluminum and steel, weighs an impressive 2.6 tons and stands 8.5 meters above the ground.

Over the years, the monument has become a true cultural icon of the region. The bird is depicted on town logos, souvenirs, and even mentioned in the local anthem. For the people of Canada, this statue symbolizes not only the richness of the wilderness but also the resilience of small communities capable of creating legends from the ground up.

To fully enjoy the monument and take a series of striking photos, 15–30 minutes is sufficient for most travelers. This is plenty of time to read the information plaques detailing the history of the site and to admire the details of the massive sculpture.

If you decide to combine your visit with a short break—such as an outdoor picnic or a visit to the nearby tourist center to buy souvenirs—it is worth budgeting about one hour. The location is perfect for a brief but memorable pause during a long road trip.

One of the main advantages of this attraction is its accessibility. The statue is located in a public open-air zone, so it is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can stop by at any time that is convenient for you—whether it's at early dawn, when the bird is beautifully lit by the first rays of the sun, or in the middle of the night. The site is accessible daily, with no closures for holidays or weekends.

A stop at the famous statue can be the beginning of an exciting exploration of the surrounding area. The town offers several interesting locations related to the region's history and its natural wealth.