Nestled in the heart of central Ontario, Canada, Sundridge is a charming village located approximately 75 km south of North Bay. Situated along Highway 11 and on the shore of Lake Bernard, Sundridge is a popular tourist destination all year round. With its close proximity to Algonquin Provincial Park and cities like Toronto and Ottawa, Sundridge, Ontario is a gem waiting to be discovered.
Whether it's the height of summer or the depths of winter, Sundridge, Ontario never fails to attract outdoor enthusiasts. The village's main attractions are boating and snowmobiling, drawing visitors from all over the country. The Algonquin Provincial Park, located nearby, offers additional outdoor activities for nature lovers. Sundridge's location in the Almaguin Highlands region of Parry Sound District further enhances its appeal as a destination for outdoor activities.
Sundridge, Ontario has a rich and fascinating history. Originally intended to be named "Sunny Ridge," a clerical error at the post office in the late 1800s resulted in the village being named Sundridge. The village's development was largely due to the extension of the Canadian National Railway (CNR) northward.
James Dunbar, the first settler in the area and often considered the village's founder, arrived in 1876. The CNR route in the area was completed in 1885, and Sundridge was incorporated as a village in 1889. The mid-1880s saw the establishment of Protestant churches, including Anglican, Methodist, and Presbyterian. In 1897, the first municipal library was established. During World War I, Sundridge served as the basic training location for the 162nd Canadian Battalion. The village's post office, dating back to 1879, is a testament to its long history.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Sundridge had a population of 938, living in 436 of its 458 total private dwellings. This represented a slight decrease of -2.4% from its 2016 population of 961. With a land area of 2.25 km2 (0.87 sq mi), Sundridge had a population density of 416.9/km2 (1,079.7/sq mi) in 2021.
In terms of language, English was the mother tongue for 90.9% of the population, while French was the first language for 1.1%. No residents reported both English and French as their first language, while 8.0% reported other languages as their first language.
Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming village to explore, Sundridge, Ontario has something for everyone. Come and discover the "Pearl of the North" for yourself.