Destination Northern Ontario

Building a strong tourism industry in the north.

Destination Northern Ontario is the largest of 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) funded by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. We coordinate, align, and invest in sub-regional programs and lead in identified pan-northern management functions.

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Northern Ontario Tourism Training Week is an event in lieu of our traditional summit to engage with industry across the North. We look forward to continue on building new partnerships, new opportunities and exciting developments together.

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Tourism SkillsNet North  (TSNN) is a partnered initiative designed to identify specific workforce labour gaps, train up to 300 potential employees and match them with available job opportunities within Northern Ontario’s tourism sector.

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Building on 80+ years of successful fall conferences for the outfitting sector, the Northern Ontario Tourism Summit was developed as a partnership event between Nature and Outdoor Tourism Ontario and Destination Northern Ontario to bring together tourism businesses, organizations and suppliers as well as all levels of government at a single event to find solutions to challenges facing the industry.

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Destination Northern Ontario wins EDCO’S Award Of Excellence For Tourism

The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) is the leading provincial organization providing support and leadership for economic development in Ontario.  Each year they provide an award to select members that develop key initiatives that are extraordinarily successful and contribute to the economic growth and well-being of the province.  Announced at the annual EDCO conference this…

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In the Destination: Northern Ontario podcast series, we’ve featured southerners who bought a cottage resort in Northern Ontario and have no regrets. After listening to these episodes, maybe you’re ready to make the leap, in theory, but the actual dollars and cents are holding you back.  If that’s the case, tune in to Episode 5,…

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What to see and do in Northern Ontario

Algonquin Explorer’s Cabin Experience with Northern Edge Algonquin in Algonquin Provincial Park

Things to do

Not familiar with northern Ontario ? Neither are most people, but it's a place you'll want to get to know. This sparsely populated region bordered to the north by Hudson Bay and south by the Great Lakes is unspoiled, rugged, and beautiful with some of Earth's oldest rocks in the Canadian Shield outcroppings. It's a global hotspot for brook trout angling, filled with quiet sandy beaches overlooking turquoise waters, close to 250,000 lakes, and thriving Indigenous history and culture. It's also enthusiastically outdoorsy -- in fact, year-round outdoor adventure is a way of life here. Here are the highlights.

World-class trout fishing

A post shared by Anthony Schirru (@lifeofmugsy) External Link Title on Jul 26, 2017 at 8:36pm PDT

Northern Ontario holds the world record for the largest brook trout ever caught External Link Title External Link Title -- and that milestone, set back in 1915, still holds. Join other anglers vying to reel in the big one on that same river, the Nipigon External Link Title near Thunder Bay. Camp and fish near the Shakespeare or Kelvin Islands. Other top places to catch "Brookies" are Lake Superior External Link Title , the Winisk River External Link Title north of Hudson Bay, or one of Algonquin Park External Link Title 's 1,500 lakes, especially the remote ones.

Quiet beaches

A post shared by Travel Blogger Lucy Dodsworth (@lucydodsworth) External Link Title on Jul 8, 2016 at 4:39am PDT

Secluded and gorgeous best describe the beaches bordering Lake Superior in northern Ontario. Surrounded by cliffs, Sandy Beach External Link Title is just that, plus it has standout views and is 10 minutes from the Wawa Goose Monument. Hike to nearby waterfalls, stroll the boardwalk, read the pavilion info on the area's Aboriginal history, swim, and sunbathe. Swim at sleepy inland Rock Lake External Link Title , near historic Bruce Mines External Link Title flanked by pretty farmland, or picnic on the fine sand near the green-blue water of Katherine Cove in Lake Superior Provincial Park External Link Title , also near the Agawa Rock Pictographs Trails.

Archaeology at Agawa Bay

A post shared by Abby Bianca (@jarvjarv) External Link Title on Aug 26, 2017 at 7:45am PDT

Not only do the Agawa Rock Pictographs Trails External Link Title involve a memorable hike descending through boulders and rock chasms, it's a sacred Ojibwe site in what some say is one of the province's best protected spaces , Lake Superior Provincial Park External Link Title north of Sault Ste. Marie. The one-hour loop trail takes you along the base of a sheer 98-foot-high cliff ledge overlooking one of the planet's largest lakes. The rock face is adorned with 17 th century Indigenous paintings, scarlet depictions of caribou, bears, and canoes. It's one of the largest collections of its kind in Ontario and Canada's most famous. Visit May to September and when the lake is calm.

Indigenous culture on Manitoulin Island

A post shared by Nick Jakelski (@nickjakelski) External Link Title on Oct 26, 2017 at 12:58pm PDT

Crystal-clear lakes, fresh air, a slow place -- Manitoulin Island External Link Title is a magical place that feels lost in time. The name means "Spirit Island" in Ojibwe and visitors go to get away from it all and learn about authentic Indigenous culture. The town Manitowaning is the first European settlement and the Wikwemikong First Nation's land remains Canada's only unceded reserve. In Lake Huron, this is the world's largest freshwater island with hundreds of inland lakes. Cross-country ski and ice fish in winter; cycle External Link Title and hike External Link Title through craggy white quartzite rocks in summer. A highlight is a tour with Great Spirit Circle Trail External Link Title to get to know the Anishinawbek people. Join a sunset canoe voyage, watch a traditional song and dance performance, and take a torch or drum making workshop. Another must is picnicking above the dramatic ribbons of water cascading down Bridal Veil Falls External Link Title near Kagawong. Don't be surprised if the only human you see for miles is you.

Moose spotting in Algonquin Provincial Park

A post shared by Voyageur Quest (@voyageurquest) External Link Title on Mar 15, 2017 at 11:44am PDT

Take a three- or four-day photo safari with Voyageur Quest External Link Title in iconic Algonquin Provincial Park . Your objective? Moose. Professional photographer and experienced outdoor guide Rob Stimpson leads guests to his secret spots around this vast, quintessentially Canadian 2,955-square-mile park. You're likely to see not one, but 10 or more of the foraging giants during this backcountry cabin camping and canoeing adventure. You're likely to see tons of other wildlife External Link Title , too.

Polar Bear Express train adventure

A post shared by Kieran Hughes (@smalldad_75) External Link Title on Aug 17, 2017 at 5:55am PDT

Ride the Polar Bear Express from Cochrane to Moosonee with locals in summer to experience the remote northern wilderness. You'll chug past an enormous hydro dam, wild rivers, and muskeg, taking you to Moosonee External Link Title , the Arctic gateway town on the Moose River near James Bay, accessible only by the train or air. A big draw is the mostly Cree Moose Factory Island , among Ontario's oldest English settlements and home to the legendary Hudson's Bay Company External Link Title now a museum in the 1673 building). The other attraction is outdoor adventure: Wildlife including caribou, seals, and belugas, fishing, camping, and canoeing. Venture out on your own or take a Moose River Tours External Link Title guided expedition.  

The Northern Lights

A post shared by Suluk 46 (@suluk46) External Link Title on Oct 1, 2016 at 9:04pm PDT

Because of its northern, far-flung location and scant ambient light, Moose Factory Island External Link Title is also a prime location to catch a vibrant Northern Lights show. Another top spot is Gordon's Park Eco Resort External Link Title on Manitoulin Island, which hosts lots of fun aurora events, like the Laser Guided Sky Tour and Dark Side of the Moon Party. Keep in mind a few tips on how to record it and prepare to maximize your chances External Link Title of a spectacular display.

Boating in Thunder Bay

A post shared by sailsuperior (@sailsuperior) External Link Title on Jul 26, 2017 at 6:03pm PDT

The region's biggest city Thunder Bay External Link Title is on the northern shore of the world's largest freshwater body, Lake Superior. Understandably, this is the place to get out on the water and explore, and the area has hundreds of volcanic islands External Link Title , too. Learn to sail, rent a sailboat, or hire someone External Link Title  to take you out. Add in some kayaking, hiking, single track riding , hunting, or flightseeing External Link Title . Other top to-dos include fly fishing on the Nipigon River External Link Title , or in winter, skiing, snow shoeing, dog sledding External Link Title , and ice climbing.

Backpacking the Pukaskwa

A post shared by Krista Petrie-Wallace (@kristapetriewallace) External Link Title on Aug 18, 2017 at 6:45am PDT

Pukaskwa National Park External Link Title is famed for its beautiful views of boreal forest, vast Lake Superior, and delightfully undeveloped Great Lakes shoreline -- the longest stretch, in fact, at 1,118 square miles. Look for moose, lynx, timber wolves, peregrine falcons, and black bears as you tackle the 37-mile Pukaskwa Coastal Trail, one of Canada's toughest, crossing the dramatic White River Suspension Bridge over Chigamiwinigum Falls. It's rough, remote, rugged backcountry, so consider hiring an experienced guide such as Naturally Superior Adventures External Link Title for the five-day backpack.

If you're looking for unspoiled adventure way off the beaten path, northern Ontario is your destination, ideal for canoeing and camping . All you need to do is narrow it down to which one.

Plan your journey at the Ontario Travel website.

Visit the Ontario Travel website External Link Title

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DISCOVER NORTHERN ONTARIO

Your Travel Partner For A Revitalizing Experience

WELCOME TO THE TOURS FROM NORTH

Discover the beauty of Northern Ontario, Canada with us and enjoy an experience of a lifetime. The beauty and elegance of Algonquin, along with the scenic beauty of Algonquin Lake and the wild life experience. Also enjoy the attitude & positive vibes of The City of Timmins, a gorgeous place to visit especially if you have a luxurious stay in The Senator Hotel. The scintillating & most capturing beauty of Kirkland while you make a tour to Heritage North, a conference & community center in the heart of Kirkland. Make your moments long lasting & memorable.

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Experience The Serenity Of The North

Discover Northern Ontario offers you the experience of a lifetime. The chance to witness the scenic beauty and adventure of Northern Ontario. Visit the unexplored places in Ontario and live your life to the fullest. A trip to tourist places like the Algonquin Lakeside, with a luxurious stay at the Algonquin Inn Lakeside resort, is all you need to revitalize yourself. Like they say: nature preserves Ontario. Witness the vibrant colours of the fall Autumn season, or take a trip to Algonquin Park and get up close and personal with nature’s magnificent creatures. Also, if you are traveling to Timmins, a stay at the Senator Hotel is a must. Experience the hospitality of the Gem of the North. Our furnished rooms and welcoming staff ensure that all your needs are handled. Don’t wait; visit now, and get the experience of a lifetime.

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WHAT MAKES NORTHERN ONTARIO A STAR ATTRACTION

There are many beautiful places in northern Ontario that give the region its star-studded appeal. It’s a place perfect for many things; whether you want to explore wildlife or enjoy the Algonquin lakeside’s calmness, there is everything. To facilitate your experience, Northern Ontario has the top resorts and hotels that provide the best hospitality, food, and services. So, whether you are here for a corporate summit, to blow off some steam, or for an exciting adventure, Northern Ontario has all of it.

WHAT IS DISCOVER NORTHERN ONTARIO

No need to search anymore for secret spots near me. We are your go-to solution for your traveling and tourism needs; Whether you’re looking for a community gathering, a nice stay at the hotel, or want to host a corporate summit, we have all the options. Our holdings include notable locations such as Heritage North, The Senator Hotel, and the Algonquin Inn. We take great pride in our work and show great dedication to our customers. We ensure our customers have a thrilling, enriching, and enlightening experience that includes exceptional service and ensures their delight.

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GIVE YOUR TRAVEL PLANS SHAPE WITH DISCOVER NORTHERN ONTARIO

Are you looking for a vacation, planning a business trip, or in the zest for adventure? Discover Northern Ontario is your gateway to a memorable travel experience.

EXPLORE & ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF NORTHERN ONTARIO

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DESTINATION NORTHERN ONTARIO & WAYS TO BUILD A STRONG TOURISM INDUSTRY

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TOP MOST HOLIDAY & TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN NORTHERN ONTARIO

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NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATIONS CANADA & THE ROLE IN PROMOTING TOURISM

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Explore the beauty of Northern Ontario, Canada with us and enjoy an experience of a lifetime.

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Algonquin Provincial Park

A canoer enjoys a misty morning in Algonquin Provincial Park.

Top 10 Things to Do in Northern Ontario

Discover the best things to do—from dancing the night away to treasure hunting—in Northern Ontario.

‘Put in’ at Storied Canoe Lake Paddle through this lore-filled portal into the myriad waterways of Algonquin — Canada ’s oldest provincial park. Located three hours northeast of Toronto, Algonquin's nature reserve is bigger than the state of Delaware. Several Canadian prime ministers, including Justin Trudeau and his father, Pierre, whiled away childhood summers on these waters. But it’s Canuck art legend Tom Thomson who dominates local lore. Thomson was based here from 1912 until his mysterious drowning in 1917. He tripped throughout the park, defining a northern sensibility on canvas later made famous by Canada’s Group of Seven artists. Learn more in Northern Light by Roy MacGregor.Follow in all these J-strokes: casting a line in the cool deep waters of nearby Big Trout Lake, gliding past a massive bull moose in Grassy Bay, stoking a crackling fire as loons call into midsummer twilight. Fall colors here are awe-inspiring. The Portage Store , your put-in point, offers complete outfitting, trip routes, and guides. Back onshore, call ahead for dinner at Arowhon Pines , a historic wilderness lodge with food rivaling top tables anywhere.

Experience Classic Cottage Living in Muskoka Head two hours north of Toronto to experience the beloved pairing of freshwater and gracious Victorian-era cottages like generations of Ontarians have done. Explore rugged granite outcrops and fir trees of the Canadian Shield along the shores of Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, Lake Joseph, and surrounding smaller lakes. Cruise to a historic island community in a nearly 80-year-old mahogany Ditchburn boat. July and August promise warm lake temperatures and few bugs. A ride on North America’s oldest operating steamship, the R.M.S. Segwun , reveals the myriad bays and islands of Lake Muskoka. Take a pontoon boat tour of all three big lakes, or rent your own ride (lake charts and a valid boating license required). For the little ones, Santa’s Village (his summer home) is a must. Later, chill on the dock with local suds from Lake of Bays Brewing and a nibble of Milford Bay smoked trout . Cottage rentals of grand Victorians, such as Dumbiedikes , down to modern chic one-bedroom cabins are listed on sites such as Airbnb. Windermere House on Lake Rosseau is one of the last Old Muskoka hotels.

Go on a Train-In Fishing Expedition Canada was built on the reach of railways and waterways that carried voyageurs, pioneers, and entrepreneurs across its vast wilderness. Experience the heritage of both on an epic train-in fishing expedition to the remote shores of Northern Ontario’s Algoma Country.The adventure begins in Sault Ste. Marie with your gear loaded on the Algoma Passenger Train or the Via Rail Budd Car. The trains travel through rugged Canadian Shield terrain, featuring the towering trestles of the Agawa Canyon .There are more than a dozen lodges along the rail line, including Mar Mac Lodge , whose rustic main building and cabins are situated on scenic Esnagi Lake. Here, enjoy world-class fishing from your 18-foot classic cedar strip runabout, casting a line for walleye, northern pike, perch, and whitefish. Non-fishing guests enjoy photography, hiking, boating, painting, or just chilling in this remote Northern Ontario splendor.

Hike or Run White Water Amid the Grandeur of Lake Superior Perhaps the most aptly named of the Great Lakes, Superior—known as Gitche Gumee or “big water” to the Chippewa First Nations people—is the largest freshwater lake in the world. With ocean-like force, it holds one-eighth of the world’s freshwater within its ancient Precambrian rock basin on the southern edge of the Canadian Shield.Mesmerizing and powerful, Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline abounds with craggy cliffs—and below, chilling water so clear that its pebbled bottom can be seen to great depths. Canoe the white water of one of more than 200 rivers that feed Superior on a custom guided trip . Take coastal day hikes from Rock Island Lodge . Expert hikers might tackle the Coastal Trail through Lake Superior Provincial Park. Sea kayak outfitters offer day trips and longer explorations of Superior’s wild shore from Agawa Bay up to near Thunder Bay. In winter, try ice climbing near Batchawana Bay.

Embrace Winter Wilderness The Danes call it hygge, the act of embracing harsh weather and cozying up indoors to enjoy the company of friends and family. In Northern Ontario , they just call it winter. Rent a private log cabin , complete with guide and cook, on a secluded lake tucked in the northwestern corner of Algonquin Park —home base amid a winter wonderland. In crisp, clear day, snowshoe out to a warm meal in a heated prospector tent. Make first tracks cross-country skiing over a snow-covered lake. Try your hand mushing a team of sled dogs. Hook a big one ice fishing or play shinny—an informal game of hockey—by torchlight as night settles in. After dark with the fire roaring, bond over customized meals like wild game, your day’s catch, or tourtière with Parmesan risotto and roasted vegetables, and maybe sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Wash all that down with local craft beers like Highlander Brew Company or Stack Brewing, and a few not-so-local fine wines. It’s total winter hygge.

Ride the Polar Bear Express to the Northern Lights September and October are prime time for catching the drama of both fall colors and the aurora borealis—the northern lights—the colorful intersection of gaseous particles in our atmosphere and charged particles released from the sun. SpaceWeather.com provides a 24-hour northern lights forecast with peak viewing times, usually between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. Killarney, Timmins, North Bay, and many other Northern Ontario locales with little or no light pollution provide optimal conditions from the winter months until April.Still, to radically boost odds of a big show, take the Polar Bear Express from Cochrane to Moosonee into the arctic watershed toward James Bay, a key 17th-century fur-trade post and British settlement gateway.In Moosonee, stay at the Moose River Guesthouse , or take a water taxi to Moose Factory Island. Here, unpack at the Cree Village Eco-Lodge and learn about the ever morphing local ecosystem on a Moose River Tour .

Fish and Explore on the French River Northern Ontario is a lacework of lakes and rivers in a region that’s home to 20 percent of the world’s freshwater. No surprise: Fishing is big here, and the tradition of escaping to remote sporting lodges to indulge in the “drug of the tug” reaches back over a century. The Lodge at Pine Cove on the French River has welcomed guests of all ages since 1935—many drawn to snagging one of the 40 thriving fish species in the river region by day and luxuriating in wilderness comforts on land by night. First Nations guide Pa-Pa-Se (a name that translates to “woodpecker”) can teach you how to find, prepare, cook, and, of course, eat local catches. For non-fishing types, there’s kayaking and hiking amid the beavers, bald eagles, blue herons, and more. Each Canada Day, up to 18 paddlers (kids included) can retrace a historic voyageur route in a 36-foot replica fur-trade canoe to an Ojibwe powwow with dancing, drumming, and native costumes at the Dokis First Nations reserve.

Treasure Hunt the Riches of Sudbury and Surrounds Hit the road on a geocache treasure hunt with the kids to learn about the people, places, and precious metals that shaped many Northern Ontario towns. This Parks Canada Heritage Hide’n’Seek GeoTour begins on the gold-laden bedrock of Porcupine, a gold rush town settled around the turn of the 20th century and still home to one of the world’s largest gold mines. Next, seek out the secrets of old silver mines toward Haileybury and New Liskeard and end up in the big nickel town of Sudbury. At each stage, find the caches, answer the questions, sign the logbooks, and exchange knickknacks, then earn enough points to be eligible for a collectible Heritage Hide‘n’Seek geocoin .In Sudbury, explore Science North , Canada’s second largest science center featuring an IMAX theatre, digital planetarium, butterfly gallery, and special exhibits on biology, space travel, and stop-motion animation. Rent a cottage on one of Sudbury’s many nearby lakes and on your way back south, stop for the best pasta in Northern Ontario at Danny's Justa Pasta in Sundridge.

Ride the Great Spirit Circle Trail on Manitoulin Island Hike the towering cliffs above Georgian Bay’s turquoise waters on the final leg of the Bruce Trail to Tobermory, then catch the ferry to Manitoulin—the largest freshwater island in the world. Manitoulin blends thriving First Nations culture dating back to prehistory with early European settler roots, 21st-century small-town Ontario life, and pristine wild places.Mount up to explore Manitoulin’s Great Spirit Circle Trail . Learn to ride bareback and swim with your horse. Chow down around the campfire. Commune with your inner journey on a medicine walk. Join the oral tradition of storytelling and relax to the beat of your guide’s drumming, the pulsing heart of any authentic powwow. Finally, put your head down in a luxe teepee with a raised wooden floor and a view above of the night stars.Out of the saddle, catch the northern lights in fall at Gordon’s Park or see Debaj —a touring aboriginal theater company founded in 1984 and considered to be Canada’s oldest such group—perform at the historic Mission Ruins in Wikwemikong.

Trip Through Temagami Like Legendary Grey Owl Land in Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park via floatplane from North Bay to walk in the moccasins of Northern Ontario’s most famous conservationist, Grey Owl , played by Peirce Brosnan in the 1999 biopic of the same name. Deep in this Temagami backcountry, let your trip outfitters show you why Grey Owl convinced kings, queens, and prime ministers to preserve such northern wilderness early in the 20th century. Only after his death was it discovered that Grey Owl was not a First Nations aboriginal. Rather, he was Englishman Archibald Belaney from the British seaside town of Hastings.Paddle and learn tracking and bush craft as Grey Owl did. Tour the First Nations community of Bear Island on Lake Temagami and experience aboriginal ceremonies, storytelling, and history. Finally, start to make your way back to your real life at Smoothwater Eco-Lodge with cuisine featuring local ingredients like blueberries, fresh fish, wild game, honeys, and maple syrup.

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Northern Ontario

visit northern ontario

  • 3 Other destinations
  • 5.1 By plane
  • 5.3 By rail
  • 6.2 By train
  • 11.1 Summer
  • 11.2 Winter

Northern Ontario is the large and sparsely-populated region that dominates the map of Ontario but lies far away, both geographically and culturally, from the big cities of the south.

This is land of rocks, lakes, and "muskegs" (bogs) and few farms or towns, never mind cities. Those communities that do exist are mostly based around mining and forestry, but there are also a number of lake-front vacation home communities and the area is known many for it outdoors activities . As well, Indigenous cultural tourism is of increasing importance here.

Distances are large in Northern Ontario – it's 1600 km (1000 miles) from North Bay to the Manitoba border, so consider focus on a particular sub-region unless you have a lot of time to spend. However, this region may also interest you are considering driving the famous Trans-Canada Highway or riding The Canadian to get between Western and Central Canada.

Regions [ edit ]

visit northern ontario

Cities [ edit ]

Northern Ontario has nine cities ( Greater Sudbury , Thunder Bay , Sault Ste. Marie , North Bay , Timmins , Kenora , Elliot Lake , Temiskaming Shores , Dryden ) and many small towns.

With the exception of the Greater Sudbury municipality, all of northern Ontario's land is divided into districts. These districts include vast tracts of sparsely-populated territory where public services are provided by the government of Ontario.

  • 49.783 -92.833 1 Dryden — home of Maximillian the Moose, an 18 ft (5.5 m) tall statue
  • 46.38 -82.65 2 Elliot Lake — a former mining boomtown that now seeks to attract tourists and retirees
  • 49.7667 -94.4833 3 Kenora — a vacation resort town
  • 46.3108 -79.4626 4 North Bay — calls itself the "gateway to Northern Ontario"
  • 46.5333 -84.35 5 Sault Ste. Marie — the starting point for the Agawa Canyon tour train
  • 46.4899 -80.9898 6 Greater Sudbury — Northern Ontario's largest city
  • 47.516 -79.683 7 Temiskaming Shores — a popular retirement and recreational destination
  • 48.38305 -89.24555 8 Thunder Bay — the metropolis of the northwest
  • 48.4667 -81.3333 9 Timmins — its main attractions are mining tours and outdoor recreation

Other destinations [ edit ]

  • 49.8933 -93.5414 1 Blue Lake Provincial Park — a 2314-ha pak for hiking, canoeing and birding
  • 47.5967 -84.7414 2 Lake Superior Provincial Park — spectacular and diverse scenery, and the Agawa Pictographs
  • 45.7667 -82.2 3 Manitoulin Island — the world's largest freshwater island
  • 46.2197 -83.9464 5 St. Joseph Island — popular as camp and cottage country
  • 48.25 -85.916667 6 Pukaskwa National Park — its 60-km Coastal Trail offers a challenging but rewarding wilderness experience along the steep Lake Superior coastline
  • 50.59 -89.55 7 Wabakimi Provincial Park — one of the world's largest boreal forest reserves, almost the size of Puerto Rico

Understand [ edit ]

visit northern ontario

Ontario is Canada's most populous province, with nearly 40 percent of the country's population, but most of Ontario's 13.5 million people live in southern communities along the Windsor-Quebec corridor . This leaves the rest of the province very sparsely populated, with Northern Ontario's few people spread across a vast area which spans two time zones. Northern Ontario covers 90% of the area of Ontario , but has only 6% of its population—about 730,000 people.

Don't expect to drive across all of Northern Ontario in a day; it's 1,000 mi (1,600 km) of Trans-Canada Highway from North Bay to the Manitoba border and a few communities (mostly on Indigenous lands around Hudson Bay) have no intercity road access at all.

Most of Northern Ontario sits on the Canadian Shield , a vast rocky plateau, and most of it is covered by boreal forest . As a result, the region's main businesses are mining and forestry, although tourism also plays a role in the economy. Its main population centres are Greater Sudbury in the east, and Thunder Bay in the West.

In the early 20th century, Northern Ontario was often called "New Ontario", although this name fell into disuse because of its colonial connotations. (In French, however, the region may still be referred to as Nouvel-Ontario, although le Nord de l'Ontario and Ontario-Nord are now more commonly used.)

Talk [ edit ]

There are several small francophone communities in Northern Ontario, but English speaking travellers shouldn't encounter any issues with language since most of those living in these communities are bilingual (English-French). There are also many communities that speak mainly Cree or Ojibwa (Aanishenabe), though there are usually English speakers there as well.

Get in [ edit ]

visit northern ontario

By plane [ edit ]

Air Canada Express provides daily service from Toronto Pearson International Airport ( YYZ  IATA ) to Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins and Thunder Bay from Toronto (Thunder Bay also served from Winnipeg, Manitoba). Westjet flies to Thunder Bay from Toronto. Bearskin Airlines (based in Thunder Bay) provides services to various smaller communities in Northern Ontario, including Red Lake , Dryden , Sioux Lookout and Kenora from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Porter Airlines flies to Timmins, Thunder Bay, Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie from Toronto City Island Airport ( YTZ  IATA ).

By car [ edit ]

The 2 main routes through Northern Ontario are Highways #11 and #17. They diverge at North Bay with Highway 11 going north and Highway 17 going west to Sault Ste. Marie then north from there. Both highways continue westward toward Manitoba, with a few points where there is only one road. The Trans-Canada Highway distance from North Bay to the Manitoba border is approximately 1650 km (1050 mi).

By rail [ edit ]

Via Rail provides service from Toronto to Parry Sound and Sudbury Junction (10 km from the city), and continues through Northern Ontario with stops at Hornepayne, Longlac, Sioux Lookout and several minor stops, to Winnipeg, Manitoba and westward.

While the former Ontario Northland passenger rail service from Toronto to North Bay and Cochrane, Ontario has been replaced by a bus, there is passenger rail service from Cochrane to Moosonee on the Polar Bear Express.

By bus [ edit ]

Ontario Northland operates the following routes in the region as of Dec 2023:

  • Toronto - Barrie - Muskoka - North Bay
  • Toronto - Barrie - Parry Sound - Sudbury
  • North Bay - Timmins - Cochrane
  • Sudbury - Timmins - Cochrane - Hearst
  • Ottawa - North Bay - Sudbury
  • Sudbury - Sault Ste. Marie
  • Thunder Bay - Sault Ste. Marie
  • Thunder Bay - Kenora - Winnipeg

Kasper Bus serves western areas as of Dec 2023:

  • Thunder Bay - Longlac
  • Thunder Bay - Sioux Lookout - Winnipeg
  • Thunder Bay - White River

Get around [ edit ]

Car rental services are available in most of the larger centres, including Kenora, Red Lake, Thunder Bay, Nipigon, Terrace Bay, Marathon, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins, and North Bay.

In Northern Ontario, a car is a must if you wish to get from place to place. In most cases, you will be driving the Trans-Canada Highway (a cross-Canada network of highways, often offering more than one route), either on Highway 17 or Highway 11. Highway 17 follows a more southerly route hugging Lake Superior, while 11 ventures northward at North Bay and heads through a less populous region of the province (avoiding the winds off of the Great Lakes, so this route is popular with truckers) before heading southwards. Highways 11 and 17 run concurrently from the Nipigon River west to the Thunder Bay region, a single point of failure. To the west, 11 heads to the US border at Rainy River while Trans-Canada 17 continues west to Manitoba .

The heavy logging trucks that are common on the roads here take a long time to stop. Be sure to give them a lot of space, as cutting one off is a quick ticket to a collision that you will lose.

By train [ edit ]

Ontario Northland operates the Polar Bear Express railway between Cochrane and Moosonee, on the James Bay shore, hauling mostly locals (the railway is the only method of overland access for many isolated Northern communities) and freight, plus some tourists. This train is one of the few remaining in North America that lets you flag it down to get picked up. Northbound trains leave Cochrane at 9AM four days a week, arriving in Moosonee at 2:20PM. Going the other way, trains depart Moosonee at 5PM and return to Cochrane at 11:30PM.

See [ edit ]

visit northern ontario

  • Ouimet Canyon , near Dorion , is 100 metres (330 ft) deep, 150 metres (490 ft) wide and 2 km (1.2 mi) long. It is protected as part of Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park.
  • Aguasabon Falls and Gorge near Terrace Bay is a 30-m (100-foot) waterfall that was created as a spill basin for a generating station. It offers tourists an amazing view through a wheelchair accessible boardwalk that overlooks the falls.
  • Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre (Manitou Mounds) 33 km from Rainy River , is one of the most significant centres of early habitation and ceremonial burial in Canada. The centre offers interpretive tours and galleries, a collections space with over 16,000 artifacts, a gift shop that showcases artwork by local Indigenous artists, and a restaurant that serves traditional Ojibway cuisine.
  • M.S. Kenora cruise is a great way to experience the splendour of Lake of the Woods. The cruise passes by Coney Island beach, through the scenic channels south of Kenora, and returns through the exciting ‘Devil’s Gap’, a channel guarded by a mythical rock bearing its name. Bald eagles and wildlife can also be sighted.
  • Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay is a recreation of the days of the North West Company and the Canadian fur trade circa 1815. It offers a look at fur trade life, culture, rafts, medicine, business, domestic life and heritage farming.
  • Agawa Canyon Tour Train is a very popular scenic one-day rail excursion to Agawa Canyon Park, 114 railway miles north of Sault Ste Marie . There is a three-hour stopover at the canyon where there are hiking trails and a railway museum. The train has dining cars, dome cars, and regular coach cars.
  • Science North is a science education centre in Sudbury with an IMAX theatre, a butterfly gallery, a robotics lab, and interactive exhibits on geology, animal biology and other areas of science.

Do [ edit ]

visit northern ontario

There are some amazing scenic drives in Northern Ontario, especially Highway 17 from Sault Ste Marie is particularly beautiful, as are both the Highway 11 and Highway 17 routes from Thunder Bay to Kenora.

Northern Ontario has a lot of provincial parks , some for day use only and others that have camping facilities. There are 3 large ones accessible by highways: Quetico Provincial Park ; Lake Superior Provincial Park and Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park . Wabakimi Provincial Park is not accessible by highway, but is accessible from The Canadian passenger rail line (which can be flagged down, and features a baggage car that can handle canoes).

There is one national park : Pukaskwa National Park (pronounced "puck-a-saw"; just south of Marathon ) which offers day use and overnight facilities. No motorized boats are allowed to be used in the park except those that access the park from Lake Superior.

Many towns through the region have outfitters who will equip you with everything you need for fishing , hunting or snowmobiling trips, and can provide guides, or organize the whole trip for you, often to remote private lodges, some accessible only by float planes.

Eat [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ], stay safe [ edit ].

Cell/mobile phone service is not available on many stretches of highways through the region, even those most travelled (Highways 11 and 17). You will have service in and around cities and towns, but you should bring some emergency supplies in the case of a breakdown, such as water, blankets, and food.

Summer [ edit ]

Black flies and mosquitoes are abundant throughout Northern Ontario. To protect yourself when camping or hiking, wear long sleeve shirts (white or brightly coloured), thick socks, and long pants (tuck the pants into the socks), and apply insect repellent containing DEET. A mosquito net can be nicer than applying repellent to your face. Also some type of bug netting in your tent is advised. Flies are most active at dawn and dusk between mid-June and late July.

Winter [ edit ]

Winter driving in the North can be treacherous, given the inclement winters here. Be prepared to adjust or cancel travel plans should the weather conditions require it.

Go next [ edit ]

West to Manitoba ; south to Minnesota , the Upper Peninsula of Michigan , Central Ontario and Eastern Ontario ; east to the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of Quebec ; or, if you have access to an aircraft, north to Nunavut .

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visit northern ontario

13-day adventure trip: Northern Ontario

Experience the beauty of Northern Ontario on this epic road trip between Toronto and Thunder Bay.

Suggested Days: 13

A sail boat sails past a white and red lighthouse atop a rocky coastline

Welcome to Ontario’s big, beautiful north country – a region rich in rugged beauty and full of opportunities to enjoy the magnificent outdoors. Discover great boreal forests and countless rivers and lakes. Though sparsely populated, the north offers a diverse array of cultural attractions and urban centres close to nature. No matter where you are in this vast land, you’ll find lots to see and do. This fly/drive can be used for RVs or automobiles. The scenic highways are well-connected and easy to navigate.

Toronto and Niagara Falls to Tobermory 

Your Ontario adventure starts with Toronto and Niagara Falls .  You’ll head north to  Tobermory , at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.  Bruce Peninsula National Park  offers rugged scenery and hiking trails.  It’s also home to  Fathom Five National Marine Park  – an underwater marine park that preserves shipwrecks and natural diving obstacles for recreational scuba divers.  Try a glass bottom boat tour if you want to stay dry. Overnight in Tobermory.

Manitoulin Island

A two-hour cruise on the  Chi-Cheemaun  ferry takes you from Tobermory to  Manitoulin Island , the world’s largest freshwater island. It’s sparsely populated and an outdoor paradise, with incredible hiking and paddling.  Wikwemikong Tourism  offers visitors unique opportunities to immerse themselves in rich Indigenous history and traditions through nature based and cultural tours. Their guides will take you on a journey through time as you learn of the legends of their people while exploring the vast lands and waters of Wikwemikong. Overnight on Manitoulin Island.

Sault Ste. Marie

You will leave Manitoulin Island on the north side, via a bridge to the mainland and travel west to  Sault Ste. Marie  – a city at the heart of three Great Lakes. Surrounded by spectacular wilderness, “The Soo” makes an ideal starting point for local outdoor excursions and eco-adventures. Get a sense of the area’s pioneering spirit at the  Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre .

Board the  Agawa Canyon Tour Train  for a trip alongside unspoiled northern lakes, awe-inspiring granite rock formations and vast mixed forests of the Canadian Shield. The train operates from late June to early October; fall is one of the best times to visit, when the forest is ablaze with colour. See the sites where Ontario’s famous Group of Seven artists painted their vibrant landscapes. Commentary is provided in six languages including English throughout the coaches and in French, German, Japanese, Korean and Mandarin via wireless headset.

Optional Route : If time does not allow further exploration west along Lake Superior, you could head back east to Sudbury , the urban hub of Northeastern Ontario and an important mining centre. Go underground on a one-of-a-kind mining tour at  Dynamic Earth . Get interactive at  Science North  – a high-tech centre for exploring the mysteries of science – and experience an incredible IMAX 3D film. From here you would continue south to Toronto, via North Bay and Algonquin Park.

Optional Extensions : Book a float plane for a fly-in fishing experience in the wilderness, at a lodge such as  Lodge Eighty Eight  or  Pine Portage Lodge . Feast on a fresh shore lunch, a Northern Ontario tradition.

Lake Superior Coast

If times allows, your journey continues west along shoreline of Lake Superior, a route full of breathtaking scenery, and recognized as one of the “top drives” in Canada. As you drive along the coastline, explore scenic provincial and national parks. Try stand-up paddling or enjoy a sea-kayaking adventure on Lake Superior; companies such as  Naturally Superior Adventures  provide guided options. Discover ancient Ojibway pictograph, hike the spectacular Coastal Trail in  Lake Superior Provincial Park  and paddle along the shoreline in  Pukaskwa National Park . Witness striking sunsets over the world’s largest freshwater lake.

Thunder Bay

Picturesque  Thunder Bay  is the main centre of Northwestern Ontario and the perfect home base for day adventures. Meet voyageurs, traders and Indigenous people reliving the drama of the fur trade at  Fort William Historical Park, the world’s largest reconstructed fur trade post. Choose from variety of sailing, zodiac and catamaran tours, of various durations, with  Sail Superior.  Marvel at spectacular 330 ft (100 m) deep Ouimet Canyon, home to rare Arctic plants or hike to the tip of the Sleeping Giant rock formation. Discover the powerful cataracts of Kakabeka Falls, the ‘Niagara of the North.’

Optional Extensions : Book a float plane for a fly-in fishing experience at a remote fishing lodge such as Wilderness North . Or visit  Quetico Provincial Park , one of the great canoeing and camping destinations in the world.  Further west is the magnificent Lake of the Woods region and  Kenora .

Note : This itinerary has been presented as one way.  If you are using an RV, you would need to retrace your route to Toronto or continue on to a Calgary depot. If you have a rental vehicle, you could retrace your route to Toronto or ask your travel agent about a one-way rental between Toronto and Thunder Bay or Winnipeg, allowing you to return to Toronto by air.

Driving Distances

  • Toronto to Manitoulin Island: 6 h 38 min / 364 km
  • MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry crossing: 2 h crossing of Georgian Bay
  • Manitoulin Island to Sault Ste. Marie: 4 h 10 min / 340 km
  • Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa: 2 h 40 min / 230 km
  • Wawa to Thunder Bay: 5 h 25 min / 477 km
  • Thunder Bay to Kenora: 5 h 30 min / 490 km

Distance: 1900 km

  • Depart from Toronto on Hwy#410,
  • Turn onto Hwy#10 to Owen Sound,
  • Take Hwy#6 up the Bruce Peninsula to Tobermory,
  • Board the MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry from Tobermory to South Baymouth, Manitoulin Island (2 hr crossing of Georgian Bay),
  • Hwy#6 off the island joining up with Hwy#17 to Sault Ste. Marie,
  • Continue north on HWY#17 to Wawa,
  • Departing from Wawa, continue on HWY#17 north to Thunder Bay,
  • Depart west from Thunder Bay on HWY#17,
  • Turn left onto HWY#11,
  • Continue on HWY#11 to HWY#71,
  • Follow HWY #71 north to Kenora.

Last updated:  August 22, 2023

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10 places to visit in Northern Ontario (and what to do and eat while you’re there)

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Want to explore Ontario but not sure where to go? You can check out the popular PEC or drive up to Parry Sound, but there’s so much more of the province that’s worth an adventure. The Tourism Association Industry of Ontario released its 2022 State of the Ontario Tourism Industry Report with recommendations for how the tourism industry can improve after two years of less travel, especially in the north. Sometimes the pure size of Ontario can be overwhelming when you’re looking to get away, so we’ve put together a list of what to see, do, and eat in Northern Ontario for your next trip. 

Timiskaming District

What to do: Ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, skiing, tub sliding, sleigh rides, hockey, and skating—Timiskaming District has everything you would want to do in the winter. Add the Carnaval de Lorrainville to your list—it’s a 50-year tradition.

Where to eat: You have to try out 28 on the Lake . You’ll soak in lake views as you feast on pizza rolls, paninis, and even sushi. Bonus: they serve all-you-can-eat fish and chips on Tuesdays. 

Where to stay: This cozy and charming one-bedroom cottage in West Timiskaming is located right on the river’s edge—it even has a hot tub to warm up after a cold winter’s day. 

Elliot Lake

What to do: Book the first week of March off and stay tuned for Elliot Lake’s Winterfest —a full day packed with horse-drawn carriage rides, dog sled rides, bonfires, skating, fireworks, and more. 

Where to eat: Great food, a full bar, and live music is everything you can expect from the restaurant at Dunlop Lake Lodge . Check it out in the summer for panoramic views of Dunlop Lake. 

Where to stay: Unwind at The Lake House on Elliot Lake, which features a private getaway and famous sunset views. Located right on the Canadian Shield, this cabin is nestled in its own Northern Ontario paradise. 

Kenora District

What to do: Experience the trifecta of winter—ski, snowboard, and tube at Mount Evergreen Ski & Recreation Area . You’ll be up and down the 220 foothills all day long. 

Where to eat: Dino’s Restaurant is grilling up something you won’t want to miss—their Greek salad is famous and the beef gyros and rack of lamb are two other top dishes.

Where to stay: Rest easy in this all-season  lakefront cottage that sleeps 12. Close to hiking trails, restaurants, historic sites, and the Kenora Harbourfront, you can enjoy a private getaway with the whole family.

What to do: Hike along the southern area of the Canadian Shield at La Cloche, admiring the ridge, terrace forest, and various wetlands. This park is more than a hike, offering bird watching, camping, overnight trails, and snowmobiling.

Where to eat: With 26 years of pancakes, eggs, and bacon under their belt, the family-owned Roger Rabbit’s Diner is the place to pack in a delicious breakfast. It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday. 

Where to stay: Rent your own three-acre island , just 25 minutes away from Espanola city centre on McGregor Bay. The charming cedar log cabin is nestled in a serene oasis, making it feel like a true getaway. 

Iroquois Falls

What to do: Step foot into “snowmobiler’s paradise” in Iroquois Falls, which sits on a 250-kilometre loop that passes through many of Northern Ontario’s best towns. Don’t forget to fill your gas tank in Cochrane or Iroquois Falls along the way. 

Where to eat: Why not consider dining at the Wye, a local favourite open every day except Mondays, and it’s right near the snowmobile trails for a quick bite. 

Where to stay: Close to walking, ATV, and snowmobile trails, this peaceful cottage getaway is nestled in an untouched forest adorned with lake views. Park your RV for the night, or bring seven friends, because this cottage has lots of room. 

Nipissing District

What to do: Glide on groomed trails through kilometres of evergreens alongside the Nipissing River at the Nipissing Nordic Ski Club this winter. If that’s not your speed, West Nipissing is home to snowshoeing trails and many outdoor skating rinks. 

Where to eat: Seek comfort in Chez Angele’s Homestyle Restaurant Style Maison and munch on everything from cabbage rolls to salted caramel brownies. And you won’t want to miss the Friday night specials, like salmon pie with egg sauce. 

Where to stay: Rent your very own 10-acre private island in French River. Enjoy your privacy, lake views, and four private beaches at this fisherman’s paradise. 

Terrace Bay

What to do: Explore one of Ontario’s best hiking trails—the Casque Isles Trail , a 53-kilometre hike for the adventurous and scenic admirers. On your way back home, take a peek at Aguasabon Falls for breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

Where to eat: Grab a bite of homestyle Italian food at Drifter’s Restaurant and Lounge , or enjoy one of their many events. 

Where to stay: Stop at Drifter’s of Terrace Bay for a cozy stay right in town. Choose between their Jacuzzi, Rustic, and Cabin suites—and if you get hungry, there’s a restaurant and bar steps away. 

Thunder Bay

What to do: Grab your shoes and your camera because you won’t want to miss the beautiful views found in Thunder Bay’s parks. Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park, Pukaskwa National Park, Neys Provincial Park, and Blue Point Amethyst Mine is just the start. There are a number of hidden gems to explore off of Lake Superior, including the famous Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. 

Where to eat: Browse the extensive wine list and indulge in seasonal meals at Bight Restaurant & Bar . You can’t miss brunch and craft cocktails from Wednesday to Sunday. 

Where to stay: Where better to stay than the trails you hiked on during the day? Sleep on a bed of fluffy snow at Quetico Provincial Park, check out Trowbridge Falls (although some say it’s haunted), or settle in under the stars at Sleepy Giant Provincial Park campsites. 

Greater Sudbury

What to do: We would be remiss not to mention the Big Nickel in Sudbury, a 1951 replica of the Canadian nickel. After, head to Science North for a glimpse into Earth’s history.  

Where to eat: Voted Sudbury’s best pasta, Bella Vita Cucina on Kathleen Street offers an authentic Italian menu you must try. Be sure to make a reservation because seats fill up quickly. 

Where to stay: Located in the south of Sudbury, this cozy and rustic A-frame cottage is great for those wanting to ski, skate, or hike. After, recover from a tiring day in their movie room for the night. 

What to do: Take part in The Bay’s plethora of winter activities—from downhill skiing at the Laurentian Ski Hill and tobogganing at Lee Park, to snowmobiling on 3,400 kilometres of perfectly groomed trails—there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. End your day by visiting the North Bay Heritage Train and Carousel and catching the sunset at the waterfront. 

Where to eat: Plant-based comfort food? Yes, please! Pancakes, dessert, coffee, and other plant-based dishes are just the start at North Star Diner , open Thursday to Sunday, with brunch being served on Saturday and Sunday. 

Where to stay: This beachfront cottage is minutes from downtown North Bay and features beautiful private lake views. It offers four spacious bedrooms and a kitsch cottage-y feel, surrounded by antiques.

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Northern Ontario

'Big' is a theme in Northern Ontario. The area is so vast that it could fit six Englands and still have room for a Scotland or two. Industry is big here, too: most of the world's silver and nickel ore comes from local mines, while boundless forests have made the region a key timber producer. What's not so big is the local population; as of the most recent census, none of the cities have over 100,000 residents.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Northern Ontario. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney is often called the crown jewel of the Ontario park system, and is considered to be one of the finest kayaking destinations in the world…

Boardwalk from Science North and Lake Ramsey bay at dawn, Greater Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

Science North

After passing through a tunnel dug deep within the 2.5-billion-year-old Canadian Shield, work your way down through the spiral of exciting hands-on…

Fort William historical park, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

Fort William Historical Park

French voyageurs, Scottish gentlemen and Ojibwe scuttle about while re-enacting life in the early 1800s at this historical park. From 1803 to 1821, Fort…

Man standing in water relaxing and contemplating wildness of lake superior provincial park, Canada.

Lake Superior Provincial Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park protects 1600 sq km of misty fjord-like passages, thick evergreen forest and tranquil sandy coves that feel like they've…

Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa National Park

With only 4km of roads within its 1878-sq-km expanse, visitors to Ontario's only wilderness national park have to explore via hiking or paddling. It's…

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Seen across the lake from Thunder Bay, the jagged Sleeping Giant Peninsula resembles a large reclining man. Its rugged, forested terrain has been…

Slate Islands

Slate Islands

Drop by the town of Terrace Bay (www.terracebay.ca) and catch a boat (return from $165 each with four people) 13km to this outstanding archipelago, which…

Polar Bear Habitat & Heritage Village

Polar Bear Habitat & Heritage Village

Despite all the polar bear talk, there are no wild polar bears in the region. This center, the world's largest polar bear facility and the only one with…

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Curious Travel Bug

The Best Northern Ontario Road Trip

A road trip to Northern Ontario to experience the rugged coastline of Lake Superior is a trip like no other. It’s arguably Ontario’s best road trip and it offers up scenic vistas, waterfalls, fantastic hiking, and beautiful camping. While it can feel like quite the undertaking to get to the north, the drive is worth it. Over 9 days you can experience swimming in the chilly waters of Lake Superior, hiking the coastline, and hunting for precious gemstones in Thunder Bay.

This guide has everything for you to make the most out of your road trip to northern Ontario including the best spots for scenic views, where to sleep, and what not to miss. It’s a long drive to Thunder Bay but when you’re waking up to sunrises over Lake Superior, I promise you, it’s worth it to experience this part of Canada.

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Driving highway 17 along the Canada side of Lake Superior. Driving from Toronto to Thunder Bay is the best road trip in Ontario and is worth doing at least once in a lifetime!

Preparing for a Toronto to Thunder Bay Road Trip

The driving distance from Toronto to Thunder Bay and back is long. Driving directly, it’s almost 3000km roundtrip. But I’ve never been on a road trip where I took the quickest route and never backtracked, so prepare for more. The drive to Thunder Bay from Toronto is one of the best road trips in Ontario , as the views from the road between Batachawana Bay to Thunder Bay are beautiful.

All the usual advice for a road trip applies here. Make sure the car is in good condition, has good tires, windshield wiper fluid is topped up. But also, if you see a gas station, stop and fill up. There can be long distances between them and if you get stuck idling at road construction stops, you don’t want to run out.

Pack lots of snacks and a cooler with ice. It’s just really nice to have cold drinks and snacks for this drive. Gas stations as well as some of the campgrounds will sell ice if you need to top it up.

Try to avoid driving at night and be cautious around dusk and dawn. You will see a lot of roadside signs warning of moose and deer. Keep an eye on ditches for these as hitting one will surely ruin your trip.

The main highway you will be driving is Highway 17, part of the Trans-Canada Highway. There are a lot of improvements happening on it and it is quite busy with traffic, especially semi-trucks. Luckily many spots have two lanes or passing lanes in spots so you can either pass slow traffic or let people go by you. Even though the speed limit is 80 km/h many people are going much faster than that here.

Renting a Car for Driving Northern Ontario

If you don’t have your own car and need to rent one for this trip, I use Discover Cars for finding a good deal on rentals. Discover Cars compares pricing between local and international companies so you can find the best deal. Especially if you are traveling in the summer, make sure to book in advance to get the best deal and book with a highly-rated company.

Where to Stay in Northern Ontario

Even though I camped for this trip, I have included options for each place for hotels and motels as I know it’s not for everyone. Camping will mean less backtracking with driving but you can often find decent motels alongside Highway 17.

If you are camping, book well in advance for provincial parks as the best campsites go almost as soon as they are available and even the not-so-great spots are booked as well.

Two red chairs overlooking Lake Superior at Pukaskwa National Park on the Southern Headlands trail

9 Day Northern Ontario Road Trip

Length:  9 days, 8 nights Approximate km/miles:  2800 km (1739 miles), 30 hours round trip Start and End Point:  Toronto, but works with anywhere in Southern Ontario Cities/Towns:  Sudbury, Sault Ste Marie, Wawa, Thunder Bay Top Sights: White River Suspension Bridge, Ouimet Canyon, Kakabeka Falls, Lake Superior Coastline

Day 1: Driving North and Pancake Bay

There’s no way around it, if you’re taking a road trip to northern Ontario, you’re going to have a couple of long days of driving. On the first day of driving my goal was to make it to Pancake Bay Provincial Park, past Sault Ste Marie. In total, it took 10 hours to get to Pancake Bay although I did stop along the way.

French River Provincial Park

The first stop was at French River Provincial Park. It’s right on the highway and it’s a good place to turn off for a bathroom break and stretching your legs a bit. It’s free to visit and park here. A short walk from the parking lot there is a beautiful pedestrian bridge with views over the French River.

View over the French River at French River Provincial Park. This is a great pit stop on your drive to Thunder Bay from Toronto

Sudbury Nickel

Another possible place to stop on the drive up is in Sudbury at the Sudbury Nickel. It’s a little off course but it’s a classic stop on any northern Ontario road trip. If you have any extra time it’s located on the grounds of the Sudbury Science Centre.

Statue of a giant Canadian Nickel in Sudbury, Ontario. This is practically a must do stop while on a road trip in Ontario

After Sudbury, the next stop will be Sault Ste Marie for dinner before heading to the campsite at Pancake Bay. Don Burger in the Soo is fantastic and had amazing veggie burgers, I highly recommend stopping here on either the way up or back.

Pancake Bay is a fantastic place for a first-night stay after a long drive. I do wish I had a campsite a bit further from the highway but that’s on me for booking a last-minute campsite.

Where to Stay in Pancake Bay

Camping Pancake Bay Provincial Park has a beautiful beach and is a good spot to spend a night. I think the Hilltop Campground or campsites in the upper 400s would be your best bet for less highway noise.

Hotel If you aren’t a camper, check out the Voyageurs Lodge on Batchawana Bay. It’s right across the road from Lake Superior and you can still check out Pancake Bay if you want. There’s a restaurant on site.

If you want a shorter drive the first day, stop in Sault Ste. Marie and stay at the Fairfield Inn . I’ve stayed there before and it’s a nice hotel that is convenient to shops and restaurants.

Sunset over Pancake Bay Provincial Park on the coast of Lake Superior in Canada. This is a beautiful first stop on your northern Ontario road trip.

Day 2: Pukaskwa National Park

I started off my day by swimming at Pancake Bay. Yes, even though I was there in August, Lake Superior was still very cold. The water here is extremely clear though and it is a beautiful beach.

After breakfast, I left for Pukaskwa National Park, a 3.5-hour drive from Pancake Bay. The stretch from Pancake Bay to Wawa is a beautiful drive as you are in Lake Superior Provincial Park and the forest stretches on across big hills with views out over Lake Superior.

Visit the Wawa Goose

Stop in Wawa to visit the famous Wawa Goose and to grab any last-minute groceries and gas. There is a parking lot with bathrooms at the goose statue. There is also a visitors centre and some plaques around the goose that talk about the history of Wawa and building the highway to Wawa, which goes through difficult terrain and was only completed in 1960.

The famous Wawa Goose statue in Wawa. Ontario

After Wawa, I hit a ton of construction that slowed things down considerably so I ended up in Pukaskwa a bit later than expected. The great thing about Pukaskwa National Park is that the front country camping is all first come first serve so there is a pretty good chance of getting a great site. Most of the camping sites here actually seemed pretty great and it ended up being my favourite park that I visited on this trip.

Hike the Southern Headland Trail in Pukaskwa National Park

For my first evening in Pukaskwa, I did the Southern Headland trail hike which is only 2.2km and takes in views of the lake and Horseshoe Bay and ends at the beach. It’s definitely one hike I recommend doing as it’s easy and has gorgeous views.

Views of Lake Superior from Pukaskwa National Park. This was my favorite stop on my Northern Ontario road trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay

Where to Stay in Pukaskwa National Park

Camping All the campsites are nice and private in Pukaskwa National Park . It’s first come first serve so no reservations are required. You do need a reservation for backcountry camping.

oTENTik If you aren’t a camper this is going to be the best option for Pukaskwa . oTENTiks are cabins located in the park that have mattresses and barbeques. You will need to book these well in advance.

Day 3: Coastal Hiking Trail to White River Suspension Bridge

For this day hike you do need to be moderately fit. It’s 18km round trip and can take between 5-7 hours depending on how quickly you hike. There are also quite a few uphill and downhill sections. Because some sections are across smooth stone including scrambling up and down them, I wouldn’t attempt this is if it was raining or the trail was wet. When I visited, it was August and I had zero problems with bugs and no need for bug spray. I think I got lucky though because I have read many reports of people being absolutely swarmed by bugs earlier in the season.

Boardwalk through a wetland in Pukaskwa as part of the coastal hiking trail. This is the most beautiful trail in the park and one of the best hiking trails in Northern Ontario

From the Coastal Hiking Trail there aren’t many views of Lake Superior as you mostly are walking through the forest. This isn’t a bad thing though as the forest is absolutely gorgeous. You start out by going through some forest and wetlands, including boardwalks and then descend into a mossy wonderland dotted with many mushrooms and berries. There are occasionally bear sightings here but the most exciting thing I saw on my hike was a Spruce Grouse who seemed quite okay with people being nearby, almost like a forest chicken.

The White River Suspension Bridge is a great view 23 meters over Chigamiwinigum Falls. It’s a great end to this hike and a good place to rest before returning on the same path.

Rapids near Chigamiwinigum Falls in Pukaskwa National Park, Canada. One of the highlights of Northern Ontario

After such a long day hike, it’s worth it to take a quick dip in Horseshoe Bay before settling in for a campfire. Horseshoe Bay is another one of those beautiful Lake Superior beaches and it’s generally quite empty. If you go in the morning there’s a good chance you will have it to yourself.

Horseshoe Bay at sunset in Pukaskwa National Park, Ontario

Day 4: More Hiking in Pukaskwa National Park

After a full day of hiking, it might not sound like a good time to do even more hiking but Pukaskwa National Park is so gorgeous it’s fun to explore all of it. There are also options here to rent kayaks or canoes if hiking doesn’t sound fun.

Hike Manito Miikana Trail in Pukaskwa National Park

The first hike I did was the Manito Miikana trail, a 2km hike that takes you up to really fantastic viewpoints over Lake Superior although it was foggy when I visited. This trail does require quite a few stairs and downhill sections but the lookout points are worth it. It takes you through blueberry bushes and over gorges. Despite being a short hike, there’s a lot of bang for your buck here.

View of islands in Lake Superior from the Manito Miikana hike in Pukaskwa, northern Ontario

Hike Bimose Kinoomagewnan in Pukaskwa National Park

The second hike I did today was probably my least favourite out of all of them but gives a different perspective on the park, Bimose Kinoomagewnan. This 3.7km trail is unique in that there are plaques there to explain the Seven Grandfather Teachings from Ojibway elders. These plaques alone make it worth the hike. The walk around Halfway Lake is nice and if you’re lucky, you will also make a butterfly friend like I did and have one land on you. This has to be one of the most magical things to happen while out in nature, a butterfly choosing you as a place to rest and feel safe.

And orange and black butterfly, the Green Comma butterfly in Northern Ontario

Day 5: Drive from Pukaskwa to Thunder Bay

While the drive between Pukaskwa and Thunder Bay should only be 3.5 hours, the reality is that this is probably the most beautiful stretch of the road trip and there are many places to stop. If you can, I recommend stopping every time you see a sign that says there is a lookout and budget more time than you think you need.

Aguasabon Falls

I could have stayed at Pukaskwa National Park for longer than I did. It was just such a beautiful park but it was time to move on towards Thunder Bay so I got an early start as it was a packed day of sights. The first stop of the day was at Aguasabon Falls in Terrace Bay. This one is very easy to just drive by so carefully look for signs. It’s a quick walk to the falls and worth the stop.

Aguasabon Falls is the perfect stop on your road trip itinerary to northern Ontario. It's a quick stop and great views of the waterfalls out towards Lake Superior

Best Viewpoints: Rossport and Kama Bay

While there are many great places to stop for viewpoints, one of my favourite stops was at the Rossport picnic area. There are bathrooms here and you are at water level so you can appreciate how crystal clear the water is. After Rossport, a great place for a view is the Kama Bay lookout point over Lake Superior.

Beach at Rossport with crystal clear water of Lake Superior and red rock beach.Rossport is a gorgeous location to stop at when doing a road trip in Northern Ontario.

Hike to Ouimet Canyon

Ouimet Canyon was my next stop for a short hike to view the canyon. Ouimet Canyon is a 100m deep canyon that is so deep that at the bottom you can find plants that typically are only found in the Arctic. It’s worth the drive to see it as pictures just do not do it justice for how deep the canyon is.

Ouimet Canyon in northern Ontario with a cloudy sky. This 100m deep canyon is an interesting stop on any road trip.

Kakabeka Falls

From Ouimet Canyon, I headed towards Kakabeka Falls, which is just past Thunder Bay but not to be missed. This waterfall is worth the extra drive. Falling 40m, this waterfall on the Kaministiquia River was an important portage location used by voyageurs making their way north. Make sure to view Kakabeka Falls from both sides of the river as the side further from the main parking lot actually has the best views.

Kakabeka Falls near Thunder Bay, Ontario. These waterfalls are a must visit on your northern Ontario road trip.

Before heading to my hotel I tried out Bonobo’s Foods vegetarian restaurant, the mushroom melt here was seriously delicious and well worth the stop. I took a break from camping and had a proper shower and bed at the Valhalla Inn . I really liked this hotel and found it to be in a convenient location.

Where to Stay in Thunder Bay and Sleeping Giant

Camping Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is a bit rustic as the site I stayed at only had outhouse toilets though a short drive away there were bathrooms with showers. I stayed in the Marie Louise Lake Campground and many of these sites did not have any kind of privacy and it seemed quite crowded. You definitely want a lakefront site that gives you more privacy and easy lake access. Try to book sites between 117-138.

Hotel Valhalla Inn was a really nice place to stay and I would definitely stay again. It’s next to the airport but is very quiet.

Camping at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada at sunrise with a picnic table and orange tent above Marie Louise Lake.

Day 6: Exploring Thunder Bay and Amethyst Mines

Today was supposed to be hiking the Top of the Giant trail in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park but the weather had different ideas. It absolutely poured rain. I didn’t work a rain day into the plan so because it’s an all-day hike, it ruined my chances to hike the giant on this trip. If it’s the main goal for you here, you may want to add an extra day to your schedule.

Thunder Oak Gouda Factory

Not wanting to let the weather ruin a good trip, my first stop of the day was out to Thunder Oak gouda factory . This cheese factory makes lots of different types of gouda and also sells other locally produced items like Wolfhead Coffee and imported Dutch food. It was well worth the stop as the cheese is super delicious.

Wheels of Gouda cheese at the Thunder Oak gouda factory near Thunder Bay, Ontario

Amethyst Mining

After stocking up on gouda, it was off to check out an amethyst mine. Thunder Bay is home to the world’s largest amethyst mine. There are a couple that you can visit in the area, I went to Amethyst Mine Panorama . You do have to pay admission to the mines but that includes a short tour and history of the mine. Then you are given a bucket and some tools and its time to set out into the field to look for some amethyst. I know it’s just picking through rocks but it’s more fun than it sounds. There’s great joy to be found in finding not a shard of amethyst but a piece that still has its crystal form. You pay by weight for your finds here or you can purchase something in the gift shop. I would budget for 1-2 hours here.

The rain started to subside so it was off to check into the campsite at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Unfortunately on the drive in it was very cloudy so there weren’t great views. The campsite was fantastic though. It was right on Marie Louise Lake with steps down to the beach.

Day 7: Sleeping Giant and Lake Superior

Even though I missed out on doing the hike I wanted to do at Sleeping Giant, I was at least able to do part of it by hiking the 2.4km Sea Lion Trail. It was a super short hike but had fantastic views of the lake and you end with seeing a rock formation the looks like a Sea Lion.

Rock that looks like a Sea Lion in Sleeping Giant, Ontario. This is a short hike that takes you to beautiful teal water of Lake Superior.

Thunder Bay Lookout over Lake Superior

While heading out of the park it’s worth it to stop at the Thunder Bay Lookout Road. The road is pretty rough and can be in bad shape as it is a dirt road so be prepared for some rough driving. The lookout from here is absolutely spectacular. It helped take away from not being able to do the lookout from the Top of the Giant. The lookout here is high above Lake Superior and it feels like the view goes on forever. It definitely was a highlight of Sleeping Giant.

Lake Superior lookout in Sleeping Giant, Ontario. This is a bit off the beaten track but so worth the drive up to it.

Drive to Lake Superior Provincial Park

Afterward, do the 5.5-hour drive to Lake Superior Provincial Park. The drive back towards Wawa is probably even better than the way there as at some points you are going downhill with amazing views of Lake Superior in front of you. Because it’s such a long drive I wouldn’t plan for any viewpoint stops today or anything extra. The only major stop I made was in White River to see the Winnie the Pooh statue as this is the home of the real Winnie bear that inspired Winnie the Pooh.

I didn’t arrive at Lake Superior until the evening so there wasn’t time once there to do any sightseeing. It was just setting up the site and trying to (unsuccessfully) start a fire with wet wood. I stayed at Agawa Bay campground and while I am sure there are good sites as I saw them, mine wasn’t it. When booking it looked like there was space between the road and the campsite but realistically, there was a ditch, a few trees, and then my tent. Which meant listening to loud trucks on the highway all night. Agawa Bay has a beautiful beach and Lake Superior Provincial Park is well worth the stop.

Where to Sleep in Lake Superior and Wawa

Camping Lake Superior Provincial Park has two main campgrounds. I stayed in the Agawa Bay Campground as it is right on the main highway. Agawa Bay is beautiful, however, some of the sites are right next to the highway so it is loud at night. Try to book a site that is on the lake or looks like there is some space from the road (sites over 312). Rabbit Lake is the other campground which is quite a bit off the main highway and likely a bit quieter.

Hotel Wawa is your best bet for a hotel. I’ve stayed in the Mystic Isle Motel on past trips and it’s a very nice motel with easy access to Wawa and Lake Superior.

Day 8: Exploring Lake Superior Provincial Park

I started off the day by driving to Old Woman Bay. This is a super pretty beach and nice place to swim if you can handle the cold waters.

Nokomis in Lake Superior Provincial Park

From Old Woman Bay you can do the Nokomis hike. It’s just across the street from the parking lot. Nokomis is a 5 km hike and it gives you gorgeous views over Old Woman Bay. It does require a lot of uphill walking as you gain 200m in elevation. It was easily my favourite hike in Lake Superior as the viewpoints from the top give you very tropical vibes. You could almost be forgiven for forgetting you are in the middle of the boreal forest rather than looking out over a tropical beach.

Looking over Lake Superior and Old Woman Bay from Nokomis Trail in Lake Superior Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada

Agawa Rocks

After hiking Nokomis, it was off to the Agawa Rocks. It’s a short hike to these pictographs that are right on the edge of Lake Superior. Actually seeing the pictographs is sort of challenging as they are right next to slippery rocks and you have to be quite careful to walk on this narrow trail. These pictographs are some of the most famous in Canada and it is a sacred site. One of the most recognizable pictographs is Misshepezhieu, a horned animal that is the spirit of the water.

Pictograph of Misshepezhieu at Agawa Rocks in Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. This is an important site for aboriginal pictographs.

Pinguisibi (Sand River) Hike in Lake Superior Provincial Park

The 3km hike along Pinguisibi trail in Lake Superior takes you alongside the Sand River to multiple waterfalls and rapids. This easy hike is well worth it as you get to see two main waterfall areas and it’s quite beautiful. You can get fairly close to the waterfalls and it’s a fun area to explore. I could have easily spent more time here walking along the river.

Waterfalls on Sand River along the Pinguisibi trail in Lake Superior. This is a short hike that has a lot of payoff in waterfalls and is a top thing to do if you are visiting Lake Superior Provincial Park

Katherine Cove

After hiking to Sand River Waterfalls it was off to Katherine Cove. By this time it was pouring rain so I did a short walk at Katherine Cove. It seems like a nice area to swim. I was hoping to visit Bathtub Island as this is where you start your visit from but the weather was working against me, the last thing I wanted to do was swim. If you have nicer weather than I did, you can check out directions to Bathtub Island here , as it is supposed to be a good experience.

After Katherine Cove, it continued to pour rain so it made for quite a soggy evening.

Day 9: Heading Home

After a fantastic week spent road tripping in Northern Ontario, it was a long day of driving back to Toronto. My first stop of the day was at Voyageurs Lodge and Cookhouse near Batchawana Bay. I had seen multiple billboards alongside the highway about their famous apple fritters so naturally, I had to stop. It’s a voyageur-themed restaurant and they make a good breakfast and super yummy apple fritters. They also sell some souvenirs in the shop.

Chippewa Falls

My last major stop on this trip was at Chippewa Falls, not far from Batchawana Bay Provincial Park. This waterfall is a short walk from the parking lot and has been featured in some of the Group of Seven paintings. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs before sitting in the car all day.

Chippewa Falls, seen on a road trip to Thunder Bay and an important spot for the Group of Seven paintings.

Northern Ontario’s Lake Superior Road Trip

This road trip to Thunder Bay was even better than I had expected. I had previously been in the area for work and while driving through to the West Coast but taking the time to explore the area turned was a great decision. The scenery around Lake Superior is absolutely breathtaking, and in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places in Ontario.

What to Read Next: Road Trips in Ontario Day Trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park Weekend in the Bruce Peninsula Autumn Road Trip in Muskoka

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The best road trip itinerary for driving from Toronto to Thunder Bay. This Northern Ontario Road trip includes the best sites including Sleeping Giant, Lake Superior, Pukaskwa, and more! Go on top hikes, see waterfalls, take a dip in chilly Lake Superior.

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Most of the Costa Tropical between the gravel beaches and up the mountainsides is now covered by plastic greenhouses and all their waste and rubbish. Shocking troubling and an environmental disaster.

Hi Sharon, I think you meant to post this on my Costa Tropical post! Unfortunately, you are right, there are a lot of greenhouses in this area and the plastic waste from it is pretty awful.

Hi Brianna, Thanks for all of the details in your blog! We are planning a summer road trip to this part of Ontario and your route suggestions and advice for best places to visit are so helpful!

Hi Deanna, Glad it’s helpful for you. Hope you have a wonderful time in Northern Ontario!

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Algoma Country

Algoma is THAT spectacular. Algoma Country is located in Northern Ontario and is a place to be experienced. The region borders two of the Great Lakes: Superior and Huron with shorelines being the most southerly borders. A landscape that is rich in old-growth forests and countless rivers, lakes and streams.

In summer, Algoma is a playground for freshwater and land-based adventures and so many things to see and do. Blue skies, clear water and clean, fresh air make for the best summer vacations. Hike trails that will challenge you and bring you into the farthest reaches of provincial parks, communities and remote landscapes.

Fall brings bursts of vibrant colours, as far as your eye can see. Fiery reds, brilliant oranges and yellows make the very best backdrop for touring whether by car or motorcycle. Goosebumps are guaranteed while on our coastline tours. Hunting opportunities are endless for moose, black bears, and wildfowl.

Winter brings a playground of ice and snow. You can sled on uncrowded trails, downhill or cross country ski or simply snuggle up and enjoy the warmth of your accommodations. Snow is plentiful!

After the snow melts, the landscapes wake up with new growth. The fish are ready to take on any angler, cottages and lodges are prepared for your arrival to catch that trophy: northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, brook trout — these are just some of Ontario’s favourite species to hook.

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Northern Ontario Road Trip: Your Ultimate Guide to This Epic Route

I've Been Bit! A Travel Blog :: A Taste of Northern Ontario Road Trip

Ontario has an undeniable amount of natural beauty throughout the province. While we may not have the Rocky Mountains or access to a sea’s shoreline, we have plenty of other gems. Born and raised here, I – along with many other Ontarians – often take for granted that we can enjoy 4 of the 5 Great Lakes or that we host over 600 provincial parks and conservation areas. The best way to enjoy it in my opinion? That has to be with an epic Ontario road trip and the best place to go is north! So what are you waiting for? Grab your keys and head out on a Northern Ontario road trip to get a true taste of the province!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links where if you make a purchase, I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you !

I've Been Bit! A Travel Blog :: A Taste of Northern Ontario Road Trip

Even on a Moody Day, the Views of Lake Superior are Beautiful!

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A Little Background on Northern Ontario

Ontario is a large province (the 4th largest to be exact) and the borders for northern versus southern can have different interpretations. The general understanding is once you see the Canadian Shield, you’ve stepped foot in Northern Ontario. If you’re unsure where that is, once you pass the Parry Sound area, chances are you’ve left Southern Ontario.

While over 3/4 of the land mass is considered Northern Ontario, less than 1/4 of the population lives there. As a result, you have acres of untouched landscape at your fingertips. 6 days will give you a great introduction to Northern Ontario, but with turn offs and lookouts galore, it’s easy to spend weeks enjoying everything the area has to offer.

INSIDER TIP: If you’re looking to save a bit of money on attractions for this adventure, Attractions Ontario has coupons that can help!

Before we dive in, it’s important to recognize that what is now Ontario wasn’t always Ontario. These lands have been here long before European colonization – along with the Indigenous nations that have been here for millennia and continue to call it home. We must acknowledge that the Anishinaabe, Mississauga, Métis and more First Nations Peoples are the original stewards of these lands and continue to fight for their rights as well as to protect the natural wonders we have the privilege of exploring.

Week-Long Northern Ontario Road Trip Itinerary

I’m going to be straight with you – you need at least a week for a road trip to Northern Ontario. It’s easy to extend it to 10 days or even 2 weeks, but pencil in at least a week to best enjoy your first foray into it without feeling too rushed. This specific itinerary also only goes as far as Sault Ste Marie. If you’re looking to go to Thunder Bay or further, I would suggest tacking on at least another 3 days, if not more – but more on that later. Enough logistics though, let’s get to it!

Views Along the Fairy Lake Trail on Beausoleil Island :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Some of the Views in Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Day 1: Drive Up & Get Acquainted with The Nickel City

This will vary a bit depending on your starting point. Coming from Kitchener, the drive to Sudbury is approximately 5 hours. You can easily split up this drive to enjoy a lovely day trip with some quality nature time to stretch your legs. Honey Harbour is home to Georgian Bay Islands National Park which is a great spot to explore, as well as Killarney where you can tackle the infamous Crack Trail or take a few hours to explore French River Provincial Park. Of course, you can book it right to Sudbury – your call!

When following Google, she’ll want to take you along the 401 to the 400. I honestly avoid this as much as possible as traffic is extremely unpredictable. All it takes is a few accidents (which occur fairly often) and your 5 hour drive can turn into 7 or 8. I personally tend to cut through Guelph and up to Orangeville along the 9, then hop onto the 400 to help ensure my drive isn’t delayed.

INSIDER TIP: Gas in Orangeville is cheaper than most locations on the route, so fill up here before heading north to save a few bucks!

Leaving Toronto, it’s a little harder to bypass traffic. You can try the Don Valley Parkway, but it’s often as bad as the 401, so taking Yonge St all the way up past Richmond Hill until the 11 may be your best bet and then hop on the 400. Check the traffic on Google or Waze before starting your Northern Ontario road trip and plan accordingly.

Lindsay Standing in Front of the Big Nickel in Sudbury :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Say Hello to the Big Nickel!

Now it’s time to get exploring your first stop – Sudbury! Home of the Big Nickel, this old mining town has grown so much over the past decade. There is plenty to see and do in town, but you may have to kick that off on day two depending on your arrival time. If you arrive earlier in the afternoon or evening, I recommend getting acquainted with the Nickel City by taking a stroll downtown and grabbing a bite to eat.

If you’re looking for a great place for dinner, I can’t recommend Respect is Burning enough. This gorgeous restaurant takes its exposed brick and industrial vibes and makes them cozy like a Nonna’s basement. You’ll find home-cooked Italian eats inspired by their roots in the central regions of Italy. From hearty pasta to lighter vegetarian fare, each dish is incredibly flavourful. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu but if you’re unsure, just ask your server and they’d be thrilled to help you pick the perfect dish.

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One of the King Rooms at the Holiday Inn Sudbury

Where to Stay in Sudbury

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Sudbury a number of times now and have had the privilege of staying in a different hotel each time! Here are a few of my recommendations of where to stay in Sudbury.

Holiday Inn Sudbury – Located on Regent Street, this beautiful hotel had a sleek, minimalistic aesthetic. It boasts over 130 rooms, an indoor pool, fitness centre, complimentary parking and more. While breakfast isn’t included with the rate, kids under 11 eat free but there are also a number of places to grab a bite close by! Click here to book your stay or check out these reviews from previous guests .

Fairfield Inn & Suites Sudbury – on the other side of town, this hotel is great with a pool and hot tub which features an adults-only hour from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm. I don’t know about you, but I love using the pool with no kids around! The rooms are bright and cheerful with accents of sky blue, offering a coffee maker and refrigerator to guests. A continental breakfast is included with the rate, making it a popular choice for families while in town. Click here to book your stay or take a look at these reviews from previous guests .

Of course, there’s always the option of a cottage or Airbnb instead of a hotel. If you’re looking for more space than a hotel room can offer, I’d highly recommend going this route. There’s this gorgeous waterfront cottage on Lake Laurentian  or this cozy cabin on Lake Nepahwin if you’re looking for something more tranquil and secluded.

If none of the above are available during your travel dates, take a look on Booking.com for other great Sudbury hotels or peruse VRBO for cottage rentals in the area.

Tour of the Mine at Dynamic Earth in Sudbury :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Taking a Tour of the Mine at Dynamic Earth

Day 2: Spend a Day in Sudbury

Ready for a full day in Sudbury? Grab a bite to eat (breakfast is the most important meal of the day!) whether it be from your hotel or a local cafe and let’s explore!

Get your geology on in the morning at Dynamic Earth . Identify gemstones, learn about our quarries and even start your own earthquake at this interactive museum! As soon as you enter, grab your pass for their underground tour. It’ll be the highlight of your visit as you descend 7 stories and walk in the footsteps of Sudbury’s miners while learning about the evolution of mining.

Your guide will show you video clips of old mining practices along with the equipment they used then versus now. The tour is absolutely fascinating and not to be missed. It can be chilly down there so bring a hoodie with you and if you’re tall like me, be prepared to occasionally crouch.

Afterwards, spend some time exploring the exhibits and learning more about this incredible planet we live on. When you need a breath of fresh air, check out their outdoor science park in the summer months! This is one of the best things to do in Sudbury for families, even the big kids will enjoy what Dynamic Earth has to offer. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a photo with the Big Nickel if you didn’t on the way in!

Lunch at La Fromagerie in Sudbury :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Some of the Delicious Eats You’ll Enjoy at La Fromagerie

Chances are you’ll be hungry at this point so I recommend grabbing some lunch at  La Fromagerie . This charming spot on Elgin Street has an upscale yet rustic, homey vibe. Settle into a cozy spot in the window or grab a seat on their adorable patio if the weather permits.

Focusing on fresh, whole foods, everything on the menu is sourced as locally as possible. La Fromagerie has a full menu with items ranging from hearty sandwiches to cheese plates to macaron cheesecakes. They also always have some sort of special or promo going on and loving having fun with their eats and treats. I mean, who doesn’t want to sink their teeth into a rainbow grilled cheese to celebrate Pride Month?!

I’d be amiss not to mention that pretty much everything on the menu has a vegetarian or vegan substitute. It’s also easy to find items that are keto friendly as well as gluten-free. This is a big bonus for me as a few friends I travel with that have dietary restrictions and it’s always a plus to know restaurants that cater to this!

If you’re a cheese lover, you can’t miss grabbing a bite to eat at La Fromagerie. Afterwards, you’ll need to work off all that delicious cheese… so let’s get outside for some fresh air!

Did you know that Greater Sudbury contains more lakes than any other city in Canada? You can find 330 lakes scattered throughout which offer plenty of incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the spots I love is  Lake Laurentian Conservation Area .

Lake Laurentian Conservation Area Boardwalk in Sudbury :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

One of the Beautiful Boardwalks in the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

Just a short 10 minute drive from downtown Sudbury, this gorgeous natural area offers over 2000 acres of protected green space. With 23 kilometres of trails, you can hike, bike and jog throughout the conservation area. There’s snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the winter months, too! Lake Laurentian Conservation Area also offers a public boat launch at the Natural Chalet so if you have a canoe or kayak, bring it along for some paddling fun.

Most of the trails at Lake Laurentian Conservation Area are approximately 1 to 3 kilometres in length, meaning it’s easy to enjoy a quick stroll or a full afternoon exploring the park. I personally love the Chickadee Trail as it’s a leisurely stroll that’s perfect after a delicious meal. This 1.2 kilometre loop offers gorgeous views of Lake Laurentian as you meander along a boardwalk and through both deciduous and coniferous forests. If you’re looking for something a bit longer though, I’d recommend checking out the 4.2 kilometre long Point Trails. Of course, there’s always the 10 kilometre Lake Laurentian Loop if you’re really looking for an adventure!

Worked up your appetite once again? Never fear, there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Sudbury to indulge at! If you decided to opt for something different the night before, Respect is Burning is an option for tonight. Otherwise, here are a few Sudbury restaurant recommendations for dinner:

  • Laughing Buddha – Arguably one of the most eclectic menus in Sudbury, this just means there’s something for everyone! Their soups and hummus are made in-house daily, but the real breadwinners are their fantastic pizzas. If you don’t mind a bit of heat, get The Buddha.
  • Tucos Tacos – If you’re looking for a taco fix (or just Mexican food in general), you have to grab a meal at Tucos. Yes, this restaurant is fully vegan but trust me carnivores when I say you won’t miss the meat! They also have great cocktails and with a fun tiki vibe, you’ll want to grab a seat on their patio.
  • Ripe Restaurant – In need of some hearty Italian eats? Ripe Restaurant is where it’s at! Their pastas are absolutely delicious and they have great features on weekends. Ripe also has a full all-plant menu with dishes that are free of meat and dairy.
  • Sapporo Ichibang – As the first Japanese restaurant in Sudbury, it’s been a downtown staple for two decades! They have amazing sashimi and top-notch bento boxes. Try some of their culinary delights like their yaki udon or grab a platter of sushi and sashimi.
  • Rose Apple – Saving the best for last because Rose Apple is honestly my favourite restaurant in Sudbury! Even if I don’t eat at their restaurant, I always get an order to go for later. I’m addicted to their basil noodles and their blossom garden appetizer. They offer all you can eat or you can order per dish, whichever tickles your fancy!

There are honestly so many great restaurants in Sudbury that you’ll need to visit again and again to enjoy them all. Plus, there are new ones popping up all the time! Whatever meal you choose, stuff yourself silly and then hit the hay – we have yet another busy day ahead!

Sault Ste Marie Sign in Front of the St Mary's River :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Take a Stroll Along the Waterfront in Sault Ste Marie

Day 3: Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie

The earlier you start, the better for this one as you’ve got a full day ahead! If you’re in need of a coffee fix, pop by Kuppajoe downtown before hitting the road. Say goodbye to the Big Nickel as you head from Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie!

SOMETHING TO NOTE: For the sake of this itinerary, we’re going to book it the 4 hours along the Trans Canada Highway to Sault Ste Marie. However, there are plenty of amazing spots to stop along the way. If you’d like to mainly take the day to explore Lake Huron’s north shore, check out these top spots from Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie . If you’d just like a spot to rest, stretch the legs and maybe grab a bite, plan a visit to the town of Bruce Mines . It’s adorable, has some great eats, cute shops, and a beautiful view from the waterfront.

Pronounced sue-saint-mah-ree , Sault Ste Marie is one of the oldest settlements in North America. However, it’s been an important destination long before European colonization. Known in Ojibway as Bawating meaning ‘the rapids’, this has been a traditional Indigenous meeting ground for millennia – and it still is to this day.

Known affectionately as ‘The Soo’, Sault Ste Marie is the third-largest city in Northern Ontario. Full of history and culture, time to hit the ground running! The town is home to a number of amazing attractions, so you’ll need the entire afternoon if you want to get a taste of them.

Also, I’d like to mention that while I did the next attractions all in one (long) afternoon, you could easily spread them across two days if you’re planning to extend your stay in Sault Ste Marie. It’ll allow you to take your time and truly enjoy each of them as you enjoy your Northern Ontario road trip!

One of the Soo Locks Boat Tours Coming Down the Canal :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Watch the Locks in Action As Boats Come Down the Canal in Sault Ste Marie

Sault Ste Marie Canal National Historic Site

I started my afternoon at the Sault Ste Marie Canal National Historic Site . It offered passage from Lake Superior to Lake Huron for the shipping industry.

The lock here allows large transport vessels to dodge the St Mary’s Rapids while navigating the 25 ft (8m) height difference between the two lakes. The lock was used up until 1987 when a wall failure rendered the lock closed indefinitely. 11 years later a new lock was built within the old one and it is now used for recreational vessels and tours.

If you’re lucky, you might just catch one utilizing the lock! Don’t forget to check out the only emergency swing dam left in the world before leaving the site.

Some Artwork at the Art Gallery of Algoma in Sault Ste Marie :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Just a Sample of the Beautiful Works You’ll see at the Art Gallery of Algoma

Art Gallery of Algoma

For 40 years and counting, the Art Gallery of Algoma  is the only collecting public gallery between Sudbury and Thunder Bay. Their collection of 5000+ pieces encompasses a wide variety of artists, including many Group of Seven originals as well as Aboriginal works.

When I visited, I experienced their exhibition “Celebrate Canada ~ Celebrate Art” in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday. Their exhibitions change on a seasonal basis and feature a variety of styles and mediums. Visit their website to see what exhibition will be available during your visit.

If a visit to the interior exhibitions doesn’t quite fit into your Northern Ontario road trip itinerary, still plan to stop by. Outside you’ll find large contemporary works in the Elsie Savoie Sculpture Park as the sculptures are sprinkled along the waterfront which are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Lindsay Sitting in the Doorway of a Bushplane :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Climb Into One of These Beauties at the Canadian Bushplane Museum!

Canadian Bushplane Museum

Just down the road from the Algoma Art Gallery is the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre . I’m no aviation nut (I honestly know little nor have much interest in planes other than for travelling purposes) but this museum AMAZED me!

Each of the planes has been restored thanks to the staff and volunteers of the museum. Some have come to them battered, torn, and even burnt to a crisp. You can see volunteers working in the back on their latest projects while you admire the finished vessels. There are even a few you can go inside! From versatile aircrafts like the DHC-2 Beaver to one of a kind experimental planes like the Macgregor MG-65, there are so many stories housed under one roof.

Be sure to check their website as they host a plethora of events like their Bushplane Days event as well as a gift and craft show come Christmas time.

One of the Buildings at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site :: I've Been Bit! A Travel Blog

One of the Buildings at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site

Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site

Last but certainly not least is the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site . This old stone house built by Charles Ermatinger in the early 1800s is the oldest surviving house in Northwestern Ontario.

Here you can learn the fascinating history of Sault Ste Marie from its days as a small fur trading post. While wandering its halls you’ll get a glimpse of what pioneer life was like. The Clergue Blockhouse stands next to the Ermatinger house. Relocated to the site in 1996, served as the home of industrialist Francis Hector Clergue from 1894 – 1908. Both buildings house pristine artifacts, many of which belonged to Ermatinger and Clergue.

INSIDER TIP: Check the hours of operation for these attractions as you might be able to fit in more stops than you realize. During the summer, the Ermatinger Clergue house is open until 6pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Otherwise, it closes at 4pm daily.

By now you’re probably exhausted, so retire to your hotel and enjoy a quiet night. If you’re not quite ready to wind down from the day, take some time to enjoy a stroll along the Hub Trail and the boardwalk following the St Mary’s River.

King Room at the Quality Hotel & Suite Bayfront in Sault Ste Marie :: I've Been Bit! A Travel Blog

King Room at the Quality Hotel & Suite Bayfront in Sault Ste Marie

Where to Stay in Sault Ste Marie

There are a number of fantastic hotels in Sault Ste Marie and I’ve had the pleasure of staying in quite a few of them! Here are my recommendations for SSM hotels for your Northern Ontario road trip:

Delta Sault Ste Marie:  If you’re looking for a hotel with waterfront views, you’ll be staying at the Delta Sault Ste Marie! Enjoy the sunset from your room as you watch boats meander to and fro along the St Mary’s River. With its prime location on the Hub Trail, it’s the perfect spot to get out for a walk or run. Delta SSM also features a pool and fitness centre if you’d like to keep your workouts indoors. There’s also a fantastic restaurant on site that has a seasonal menu that’s bound to be a hit with anyone in your group. Click here to book your room  or see what previous guests have said about their experience .

Days Inn & Suites Sault Ste Marie: Whenever my mom and I head to Sault Ste Marie for our girls’ trips, this is where we stay. The Days Inn & Suites have amazing two-floor suites that feel like a small home! With a full kitchen, two bathrooms, and plenty of room, it’s a great spot to stay if you’re planning on being in town for an extended period of time. To top it off, breakfast is included, too! Click here to book your stay or take a look at what previous guests have said about their visit .

Fairfield Inn & Suites Sault Ste Marie : Located along Great Northern Road, this is a stellar option if you’re going to be doing a lot of travel north of the city to Lake Superior Provincial Park, Wawa, etc. Their rooms are quite spacious, each with a fridge and microwave as well as a coffee maker. Breakfast is included in your rate and served daily downstairs. Plus there’s a pool and fitness centre making it perfect for families, business travellers and solo adventurers like myself! Click here to book your room or take a look at what other guests have said about their experience .

Holiday Inn Express Sault Ste Marie: Of all the hotels I’ve included here, I think I’d have to say that the Holiday Inn Express has the nicest rooms. It’s clear they’ve been recently renovated with minimalistic decor that’s still inviting and cozy. The whole hotel is bright and inviting, offering an indoor pool, spa tub, and sauna. Also, this hotel easily has the best breakfast and it’s included in your rate. Why is it the best? Three words: fresh cinnamon buns. Click to book your room  or see what other guests have to say about their stay .

Views from the Lake Superior Coastal Drive, a Must On Your Northern Ontario Road Trip :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Some of the Brilliant Views You’ll Enjoy Along the Lake Superior Coastal Drive

Day 4: Lake Superior Coastal Drive

Well rested? I bet, that was a busy travel day! Now’s not the time to slack though – we have a full day of exploring Lake Superior waiting for us!

If you’re looking for some local fuel to start your day off right, I recommend grabbing a hearty meal at  The Breakfast Pig . It is easily one of (if not THE) best restaurant in Sault Ste Marie  and is not to be missed when visiting the city. While you might be tempted to go for a typical breakfast, I highly recommend going off script and enjoying one of the owner Angela’s brilliant creations. She always has fantastic monthly specials happening or if you want a solid go-to that’s always on the menu, I can’t recommend The Adonis Eggs Benedict enough.

Of course, it isn’t a road trip without a solid cup of coffee! Whether you’re in need of a coffee fix or just want to delicious hand-crafted beverage for the road, you’ll want to stop by Scott Coffee Co . Using local beans from St Joseph Island Coffee Roasters, you’ll be supporting not one but two Northern Ontario companies! Also, they have great handheld eats and treats perfect for on the road. Though I bet you can’t walk out without at least one of Sarah’s amazing cheesecake slices.

Alright, now that you’re prepared, let’s hit the road for another day of epic adventures!

Lindsay Sitting Beside Chippewa Falls :: I've Been Bit! A Travel Blog

Be Sure to Spend Some Time Enjoying the Roar of Chippewa Falls

The largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior is also the largest freshwater lake. All four of the others can fit within it! Known as Gi chi Gamiing meaning “great lake” in Ojibway, the sheer power of Lake Superior can be seen on a turbulent day. Whether calm or uneasy waters, Lake Superior has a certain allure that will have you mesmerized. The coastal drive can be as busy or as relaxed as you like, but take as much time as you like exploring the beautiful Lake Superior shoreline. Head north along the Trans Canada Highway and let’s get started!

Lake Superior Coastal Drive

It won’t take long for the incredible views of Lake Superior to unfold in front of your eyes. Just 45 minutes up the road will be your first stop – Chippewa Falls . Say hello to the gorgeous waterfall on the eastern side of the road as well as the mid-point for the Trans Canada Highway! Take some time to enjoy the little trails that wind in and around the area before continuing onwards.

While chances are Lake Superior Provincial Park is your main destination, you will pass by two other provincial parks along the way! Both  Batchewana Bay and  Pancake Bay have amazing sand beaches and are hot destinations in the summer months. If you’re looking to enjoy some beach time, I recommend arriving early to grab a prime spot along the shoreline!

Chances are you’re not hungry right now, but if you’re looking for a spot to stop later on, I highly recommend grabbing a bite to eat at Voyageur’s Lodge and Cookhouse . Right across from Batchewana Bay, they offer some incredible home-cooked eats from fish tacos to bannock and beans. There’s also a motel attached so if you’re looking for a spot to stay outside the city so you’re closer to the natural wonders of Algoma Country, I’d recommend booking a room here !

Agawa Pictographs in Lake Superior Provincial Park :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

One Stop You Cannot Miss in Lake Superior Provincial Park at the Agawa Rock Pictographs

Exploring Lake Superior Provincial Park

You’ll be driving through Lake Superior Provincial Park , so if you plan on stopping and exploring at all within the park’s boundary (which you should be!), head to the visitors’ centre to pay your entry fee. You’ll want to visit either way as they have a great exhibit there showcasing the history of Lake Superior and the area. Read about how the Group of Seven traversed Algoma Country to paint the gorgeous landscapes, and the horrors of the Edmund Fitzgerald as Lake Superior took the lives of the 29 men on board.

SOMETHING TO NOTE: With the state of things right now, the visitors centre exhibits might be closed or have limited hours. Be sure to check in advance to avoid disappointment!

As for inside the park, well… the possibilities are endless. Covering 1,556 kilometres squared of land, you can imagine just how many incredible hikes and lookouts there are to experience!

I’ve had the pleasure and fortune to spend a few days now exploring Lake Superior Provincial Park, and these are a few of my recommendations of what to see and do:

  • Agawa Bay – If you’re going to go ANYWHERE in the park, you need to visit the Agawa Rock Pictographs. This hike is short at less than a kilometre in length, but it’s an important spot. Here you can find interpretive signage that touches on the importance of this area to the Ojibway People, but I recommend doing your own research. Along the rock, you’ll see gorgeous pictographs that have been there for hundreds of years. I try to stop every time I’m passing through.
  • Old Woman Bay – Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful shores of Lake Superior as a Nokomis (meaning grandmother in Ojibway) watches over you. This iconic cliffside is a popular spot in Lake Superior Provincial Park, as is the driftwood beach.
  • Nokomis Trail – The views from the Nokomis Trail are some of my favourites in the region. This ~4 kilometre trail isn’t an easy one as it requires scaling some pretty large rocks as you climb 200 metres, but the views are absolutely worth every step and stumble. If Old Woman Bay or the Nokomis Trail are must-sees for your Northern Ontario road trip, you’ll want to get here early as the parking lot fills up extremely quickly.
  • Sand River Falls – Also known as the Pinguisibi Trail, this is a favourite among waterfall chasers like myself. The trail is a fairly easy 3 kilometres (one-way) but offers spectacular views of the river as it tumbles down the Canadian shield. I highly recommend taking a few hours to truly enjoy the trail but if you only have time for a quick stop, the largest of the waterfalls is right by the parking lot. Enjoy a quick pit stop before carrying on your way!

Magpie Falls aka Scenic High Falls in Northern Ontario :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Magpie Falls aka Scenic High Falls Just Outside of Wawa

Optional to Wawa

To try and hit all of the stops and hikes I’ve mentioned is a tall order for just one day, meaning if you do try to accomplish that mission, chances are you won’t have time to head to Wawa. Though if you can, I highly recommend swinging it because of the two main stops. The first is located just a 10 minute drive south of town, so keep an eye out for the Pinewood Drive turn-off and follow the signs to Scenic High Falls .

Follow the gravel road as it twists and turns, taking you to the parking lot near the base of the falls. I more commonly refer to it as Magpie Falls (because let’s be honest, there are 281974983 “High Falls” in Ontario), but this cascade waterfall sure is a beauty. She sits about 23 metres (75 feet tall) and has a crest of 38 metres (125 feet). There are trails that lead to the right of the falls, but there is no way to directly access the bottom. This is also not recommended as the flow is controlled by a dam and therefore can change without warning.

After you’re done admiring Magpie Falls and all her beauty, head to Wawa and say hello to the goose. Yes, that’s right – there’s a HUGE Canada goose sculpture at the visitors centre! Why? While the town is pronounced wah-wah , it’s pronounced  way-way and means goose in the Ojibway language!

The drive to Wawa is 2.5 hours, making it a popular turnaround point for this Sault Ste Marie day trip. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at the Viking Restaurant in town before making your way back to Sault Ste Marie.

NOTE:  This is just a quick overview of the top spots along the Lake Superior Coastal Drive. If you’d like more information or are looking to continue your drive further to White River and beyond, don’t miss my guide to the top spots from Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay !

Now let’s call it a night because we have an early day tomorrow as we experience one of Canada’s signature attractions!

Day 5: Agawa Canyon Tour Train

This is when staying at the Quality Inn & Suites Bay Front comes in handy. Roll out of bed and across the street for an 8:00 am departure on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train ! Only accessible by train, you don’t want to be late for this one. They WILL leave without you! Arrive at 7:30 am to see the train come in and grab a great seat.

Especially during the autumn season (mid-September to mid-October), you’ll want to arrive early so you can have the first pick of your seat. If you’re like me and like to enjoy your nature as pristine as possible, I suggest visiting in the summer months.

INSIDER TIP: Grab a seat on the side facing the hotel. The majority of the highlights along the ride to the canyon are on this side! For more tips like this, check out my full guide to the Agawa Canyon !

As the train winds through the beautiful Northern Ontario landscapes, you’ll hear about the history of the area as well as the rails with the GPS triggered commentary. Enjoy gorgeous views on the 4 hour ride of Trout Lake, the Batchewana River, the Montréal River Reservoir and more! You can also grab a bite to eat or a coffee/tea to go from the snack car.

Upon arriving you’ll have an hour and a half to enjoy and explore the natural beauty of the Agawa Canyon. While it will be tight but not impossible, keep an eye on the time so you can see all the sights in just 90 minutes. The views from the top of the Lookout Trail will take your breath away as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Agawa River. It’s worth all 321 steps to the top!

Head down along the Talus Trail and say a quick hello to Black Beaver Falls before heading to your final stop – Bridal Veil Falls . At 225ft (68.5m) tall, this beauty is a stunner! Then pick up the pace and head back to the train along the River Trail. If you hear the train’s horn blow, that means put a spring in your step. Head for the tracks to make sure they don’t leave without you!

By now you’re probably starving, and rightfully so – you just did quite the trek! While you can pack a lunch, if you’re anything like me (aka NOT a morning person), you wouldn’t have had time for that. Head to the snack car and grab some grub to refuel. At this point, you’ll probably be ready for a nap, but if you’re a trooper I suggest staying up and taking in the sights on the way back to Sault Ste Marie.

Take a moment to rest and relax as you’ve just tackled the Agawa Canyon! Now it’s your last night in Sault Ste Marie, so treat yourself to a nice dinner or maybe a beverage or two. There are plenty of restaurants and bars within walking distance in downtown Sault Ste Marie so you can enjoy without worry. If you’re looking for my top recommendations, check out my guide to the best restaurants in Sault Ste Marie .

If you haven’t had a chance yet, I highly suggest taking the time to enjoy the Hub Trail . Not only because it’s a great pedestrian walkway but also because it offers great views of the St Mary’s River. Finish the day with stunning colours and the sun setting behind the International Bridge.

Day 6: Goodbye Sault Ste Marie, Hello Again Sudbury

It’ll be tough to say goodbye to The Soo, but it’s one of those places that you have a feeling you’ll return to… possibly for the Batchewana Pow Wow ? Wave farewell as you hop on the Trans Canada Highway heading east back towards Sudbury.

You can do this in a straight shot of course, but as I mentioned, there are so many great stops between Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie! If you didn’t get a chance to explore more on your way in, I recommend taking some time on your way back.

One stop I recommend is the adorable town of Bruce Mines . About an hour south of Sault Ste Marie, this is the site of Canada’s first copper mine. While it’s been closed since the 1990s, you can still take a tour in the summer months! Though chances are you’ll mainly be passing through so I recommend stopping in at The Copper Bean Cafe. They have incredible homemade goodies and delicious beverages that will keep you fuelled on your way back to Sudbury. If you’d like to spend a bit of time exploring, check out my guide to Bruce Mines !

NOTE: As I mentioned earlier, there are so many incredible stops between Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie. While I’m not going in-depth in this post, you can check out my full guide to driving Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie and see what stops you want to enjoy on your trip!

Though if you’re going to take any detour, I highly recommend taking the exit for Route 144. Don’t worry, we’re not heading all the way to Timmins (though that could be another destination for your next Northern Ontario road trip!), but rather to Onaping Falls ! Feast your eyes on the beauty of the Onaping River as it drops over 45 metres (150 feet) across the beautiful Canadian shield. While the trail itself can be tricky with very uneven and rocky terrain, there’s a fantastic lookout and picnic area that’s fully accessible.

For all the details, check out my guide to exploring the AY Jackson Lookout !

Depending on what time you arrive in the Nickel City, you have a few options of things to do in Sudbury. Personally, I suggest hunting for street art in downtown Sudbury if you didn’t do this on your first night in town. Adding such a vibrant vibe to the area, these murals brighten many corners of Sudbury. It also seems like more and more have been added each time I visit!

Though if you’re going to witness any of these incredible masterpieces, you need to check out Canada’s largest mural . That’s right, Sudbury is home to this massive work of art that spans 74,000 square feet. What was once a derelict hospital has become a beacon of colour in the city, taking 860 gallons of paint and a crew of 29 people to complete. The sight is certainly not to be missed… and you honestly can’t miss it when driving down Paris Street!

If you’re a fan of Letterkenny, then get yourself an effin’ Puppers over at Stack Brewing . Yes, that’s right – they brew the show’s official beer! In all seriousness though, Sudbury has a great craft beer scene. I’d highly recommend visiting one of the local breweries for a pint or two before you head home! Now I’m just hoping that one of the distilleries in town will make some Gus n’ Bru and then we’d be all set…

Day 7: Science North & Homeward Bound

No trip to Sudbury is complete without a visit to Science North ! Home to an amazing science centre, an IMAX theatre and more, there’s lots to see and explore.

You’ll find a number of interactive exhibits across their four floors. Enjoy watching butterflies and identifying fossils on the second floor. Visit critters like Maple the porcupine and Drifter the beaver on the third floor while you learn about each creature. Head up to the top floor to learn about the human body and our solar system.

INSIDER TIP: Science North is a popular spot, so I suggest going in the morning shortly after it has opened. This way you can beat some of the crowds! Although you may notice that many of the animals aren’t overly active or still sleeping. Visit them just as you’re leaving and chances are they’ll be mobile.

There are also daily demonstrations and shows daily in the Discovery Theatre. Ask for the day’s schedule when purchasing your tickets to find out more!

There is also an outdoor component which can easily be missed. Accessible from the third floor, head to the Northern Garden to unwind a little. If you’re interested in naturalizing your landscape, the garden features a variety of native plant species. It also houses a certified Monarch Waystation and if you’re lucky, you might spy a chipmunk or two!

Overall it’s easy to spend 3-4 hours just in the science centre alone. If you plan on catching an IMAX movie or a show at the Planetarium, I’d suggest planning a whole day for Science North. There’s also an escape room if you want to test your logic and teamwork skills!

Before leaving, wander through the Northern Forest exhibit outside towards the back of the building. You’ll find the Bell Park Boardwalk which leads along the shores of Hermit’s Bay.

In the summer you’ll find plenty of yachts and canoes in the water, possibly a few families fishing. Go for a stroll and enjoy the serene views along the boardwalk. You can take it all the way to downtown Sudbury which is approximately 30 minutes one way.

When you’ve had your fill of sunshine, it’s time for your Northern Ontario road trip to come to an end… for now. Hop back on the Trans Canada Highway south and start preparing for your next adventure, because we both know you’ll be back!

2 Week Northern Ontario Road Trip Itinerary

As I said earlier, the above week-long Northern Ontario road trip itinerary is really just a taste of what the area has to offer. If you’re really looking to see a good chunk of Northern Ontario, then don’t stop at Sault Ste Marie! Thunder Bay is the next hot spot to adventure to in Northern Ontario and I can certainly say it’s worth the extra trek. If you’re looking for more places to visit in Northern Ontario, then this two week itinerary is for you!

While you can straight-shot it from Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay, I highly recommend taking at least a week. If you’re game for two weeks of Northern Ontario road trip fun, here’s my recommended itinerary!

NOTE:  This is certainly a “Coles Notes” version of this itinerary. If you’re looking for more in-depth information about this route, check out my guide from Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay !

Toronto to Thunder Bay Road Trip

Yes, I know, not all of my readers hail from Toronto but a large majority of Ontario’s population does. While it technically says Toronto, you can adjust accordingly based on the below stops. Alright, here’s the run-down for this Toronto to Thunder Bay road trip itinerary!

Day 1: Toronto to Sudbury (~400 km)

I’d recommend following what I mentioned earlier for day one of the week-long road trip itinerary. Sudbury is also a great weekend road trip from Toronto. Therefore, if you’d rather take the time to explore Sudbury in its own adventure, I recommend stopping at Georgian Bay Islands National Park , Killarney Provincial Park and/or French River Provincial Park to break up your drive.

Day 2: Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie (~307 km)

You can do this as quickly or as leisurely as you like. If you’d like to make this a full day of exploring Lake Huron’s north shore, check out these top stops between Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie . Looking to beeline it right to The Soo? Take the morning to explore Sudbury or get into Sault Ste Marie and explore for the afternoon and evening. Again, refer to day two of the week-long road trip itinerary for some ideas!

Crystal Falls in the Hiawatha Highlands :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Crystal Falls in Sault Ste Marie’s Hiawatha Highlands

Day 3 & 4: Explore Sault Ste Marie & Algoma Country

This is where the itinerary will begin to differ from my week-long suggestions. Since you’ll be heading north along the Lake Superior coastal drive while making your way to Thunder Bay, I recommend sticking close to Sault Ste Marie and exploring the area more.

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is always a fantastic option for a day trip when in Sault Ste Marie, and honestly should not be missed if possible. While it’s an early start, it’s always nice to have a day where you don’t have to drive and get chauffeured from point A to point B! Check out my full guide to the Agawa Canyon Tour Train for more details.

If the Agawa Canyon isn’t quite in the cards – don’t worry, there’s PLENTY to see and do closer to Sault Ste Marie. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, I highly recommend exploring the Hiawatha Highlands . While it’s a popular spot for winter fun, it’s just as gorgeous in the summer. Enjoy a hike along part of the Voyageur Trail and explore the beautiful Crystal Falls.

Looking for some nature closer to downtown? Explore the Hub Trail and enjoy a stroll around Whitefish Island . This historical site is right along the St Mary’s River and offers a number of beautiful walking trails. Learn about the history of these lands and the island’s significance to the Ojibway People.

NOTE:  Whitefish Island is overseen by the Batchewana First Nation. While nature should always be respected, please take extra care when visiting. It’s a privilege to explore this sacred site and it should be left in better condition than you found it. If there is a closure, follow it and save Whitefish Island for a future visit.

Of course, you can always explore a few of the museums and galleries in town! Take a peek at day three of the week-long itinerary for a quick overview of the Art Gallery of Algoma, the Canadian Bushplane Museum, the Sault Ste Marie Locks National Historic Site and the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site.

How does a patio or two sound? There are quite a few to be found in Sault Ste Marie! Head to the downtown core and check out some of the amazing local restaurants to fuel up “Soo-style” . There are also the local watering holes such as Outspoken Brewing or Broers Jansen if you’d like to enjoy an adult beverage or two.

Lindsay Standing in Old Woman Bay in Lake Superior Provincial Park :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Be Sure to Enjoy the Gorgeous Views of Old Woman Bay

Day 5 & 6: Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay (~705 km)

Time to make your way further north to Thunder Bay! Enjoy the epic sights of the Lake Superior coastal drive as you follow the Trans Canada Highway.

I recommend splitting the drive into two days and taking some time to explore this stretch. Remember, you won’t be able to fit everything in – but you’ll have some time to explore again on the way back! I recommend finding a spot to stay overnight near the town of Marathon as that’s about halfway. Here are some of the stops I’d suggest between Sault Ste Marie and Marathon:

  • Batchewana Bay Provincial Park – Enjoy some beach time
  • Pancake Bay Provincial Park – Beach time or check out the Edmund Fitzgerald hike
  • Lake Superior Provincial Park – Agawa Bay, Old Woman Bay and Sand River Falls
  • Wawa – Quick pit stop to say hello to the big ol’ goose and grab a bite to eat if need be
  • White River – Similar to Wawa, a quick pit stop but this time to say hello to Winnie the Pooh
  • Pukaskwa National Park – Words cannot accurately describe the beauty of this gorgeous park

Now, there are a few things you can do for accommodation. As I said, the mid-way point is around the town of Marathon and while the town has some accommodation offerings, there isn’t a whole lot to choose from. Further up the highway, you’ll find Terrace Bay and Schreiber, both have some accommodation options as well .

If you’re a fan of camping, I highly recommend grabbing a spot at Neys Provincial Park or Pukaskwa National Park (though it’s first come, first served!). Personally, I stayed at Neys Provincial Park and can’t recommend it enough. Another option is Rainbow Falls Provincial Park which I can say from personal experience is also fantastic, though it’s a little further and will mean a bit more driving.

As for the rest of the way from the Marathon area to Thunder Bay, be prepared for some of the best Northern Ontario scenery. I was blown away by the views along this stretch of the Trans Canada Highway! Here are my recommended stops to visit:

  • If you don’t stay at Pukaskwa, Neys , or Rainbow Falls , I recommend checking them out for a quick hike
  • Terrace Bay – Check out the lighthouse and head down to the waterfront for a quick beach stop
  • Aguasabon Falls – Follow the boardwalk to these roaring falls and marvel in the beauty of the gorge
  • Nipigon – Climb the steps of the lookout tower for some brilliant views of the area. Also, a fantastic spot to go paddling.
  • Eagle Canyon Adventures – Check out one of the longest ziplines in Canada and experience the incredible views from their two suspension bridges
  • Ouimet Canyon – You’ll be blown away by the beauty of this epic canyon
  • Terry Fox Memorial – Pay homage to one of Canada’s most selfless heroes and enjoy the beautiful views of the Sleeping Giant
RELATED: Again, if you’re looking for an in-depth guide to this part of the route, be sure to check out my Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay guide . It has all the details you’ll need for this trek!

Yes, I know, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park isn’t on that list. Don’t panic, there’s no way I’m missing out on including one of the top things to do in Northern Ontario… and some of the best scenery in Ontario!

Take a breath now because you made it. Say hello to Thunder Bay and let’s get acquainted with the city!

Thunder Bay Waterfront from Prince Arthur's Landing :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Views of the Thunder Bay Waterfront from Prince Arthur’s Landing

Day 7 & 8: Exploring Thunder Bay

The city we know as Thunder Bay has only been around for half a century. Before they amalgamated, there was Port Arthur and Fort William. Those who’ve grown up in Thunder Bay often still refer to the two areas as such.

There is so much history and plenty to see and do in Thunder Bay proper. From art galleries to museums to outdoor adventure, Thunder Bay has something for everyone. And the food scene?! It catches so many by surprise but Thunder Bay is one of the best foodie towns around. Don’t miss my guide to all the fun things to do in Thunder Bay so you can enjoy the best the city has to offer. There are a number of top attractions in Northern Ontario here and you don’t want to miss them!

Of course, chances are you’re in town because you want to see the “Niagara of the North” – yes, I’m talking about  Kakabeka Falls . Located about 30 minutes west of Thunder Bay, take a morning or afternoon to experience this natural wonder. Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park has some fantastic hiking trails and their campground is great. You’re guaranteed to sleep well as the low rumble of the falls lulls you to sleep. There are a number of fantastic Thunder Bay waterfalls  to experience and I recommend spending some time chasing them around the area!

If you’re wondering where to stay in Thunder Bay, I have two solid recommendations. There’s the Prince Arthur Hotel which is the oldest hotel in the city and full of old-world charm. They have very spacious rooms each with a fridge, microwave and anything else you may need for your stay! Click here to book your room or see what other guests have to say about their stay .

My other recommendation is the Courthouse Hotel . Yes, this was Thunder Bay’s original courthouse which has since been transformed into a hotel! Each of the rooms used to be a judge’s office (and they were clearly very, very spacious) that have since been refurnished into elegant rooms with top-notch amenities. Click here to book your room or see what other guests have to say about their experience .

Lindsay standing at the Top of the Giant in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Day 9: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

For some of the best views in Northern Ontario (or dare I say it – the entire province), you need to plan a day for exploring Sleeping Giant Provincial Park .

Experience the beauty of the Sibley Peninsula as you explore over 100 kilometres of incredible hiking trails. While there are 26 trails to choose from, most come for the holy grail of all hikes – the Top of the Giant. The trail itself is just 6.6 kilometres long, however it’s a bit of a trek from the parking lot to get to the trailhead. In total, this is a 21.8 kilometre round trip that you will never forget. Bring plenty of snacks and water as you climb to ~228 metres (750 feet) above Lake Superior. It’s a gruelling hike but trust me when I say it’s 100% worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat!

If hiking 6-10 hours to the Top of the Giant sounds a little too intense for you, don’t worry. There are a number of other fantastic hiking trails to explore. Check out the Ontario Parks website for a full list of the trails.

There’s the option to stay overnight at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park’s campground, or you can incorporate this into your stay in Thunder Bay. It’s about an hour’s drive to the park from the city, making it easily doable as a day trip!

Day 10 & 11: Thunder Bay to Sault Ste Marie (~705 km)

Here’s where you can take a peek at some of those stops you didn’t get to check out on the way through. Refer back to days 5 and 6 for ideas of where to go to break up the drive and enjoy this gorgeous part of Northern Ontario.

Views from the Cup and Saucer Trail (Michigiwadinong) on Manitoulin Island :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Views from the Cup and Saucer Trail on Manitoulin Island

Day 12-14: Sault Ste Marie to Home (~700 km)

With three days left in this two-week itinerary, you have a couple of options. The first is you can spend a little more time in Sault Ste Marie and explore more of Algoma Country. There is honestly so much to see that you’ll need a few visits to enjoy it all! Then, you can also take your time and break up your stay between Sault Ste Marie and Sudbury if there were still some spots you wanted to explore before making your way home. Of course, there’s also the aforementioned French River Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park and Georgian Bay Islands National Park if you didn’t stop on the way in.

However, you might also want to take a little detour along Highway 6 to the world’s largest freshwater island –  Manitoulin Island . Set your watch to island time as you slow down, relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Enjoy the incredible sights from the Cup and Saucer Trail. Learn more about the true history of these lands at the Ojibwe Culture Centre. Eat a stellar meal in an old school house turned restaurant. Catch some of the best sunsets you’ll see in Providence Bay. There is so much to see and do so check out my guide to Manitoulin Island for all the details!

From here, you can either backtrack and continue along the Trans Canada Highway to head home, or you can book a spot on the Chi Cheemaun and enjoy the beautiful views across Lake Huron. You will then arrive in Tobermory where you can enjoy a day or two exploring the beautiful Bruce Peninsula or make your way home. If you’re curious about what there is to see and do, don’t miss my Tobermory guide !

Views From the Eagle Canyon Suspension Bridge :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

I Can Never Get Enough of These Brilliant Northern Ontario Views

Additional Northern Ontario Stops

Phew, that’s a lot of ground we’ve covered! But y’know what? There’s even MORE to see in Northern Ontario! It truly is a massive province and while I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a number of times, there is still so much I’m chomping at the bit to see! If you’re looking for even more recommendations, here are a few more Northern Ontario road trip spots that are on my radar.

Kenora and Lake of the Woods – Can you believe there is still another 8 hours from Thunder Bay to the Manitoba border? Along the way, you’ll find Kenora and Lake of the Woods. While I was absolutely mesmerized by the natural beauty from Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay, I’ve been told it’s even more breathtaking in this area. That alone has me jonesing for a trip!

Highway 11 – I’ve heard a few folks say that Highway 11 isn’t nearly as nice as Highway 17 when exploring Northern Ontario, but I want to find out for myself! With beautiful areas like Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, Cochrane, Moonbeam and Hearst just to name a small handful of the places I have flagged along the route. I can’t wait to experience all the things to see on Highway 11 Ontario.

Cochrane – Speaking of Cochrane, this town is home to the Polar Bear Habitat, one of the largest of its kind in the world. It’s also known for its ability to lengthen the lives of polar bears that are in captivity by providing environments as close to their natural habitat as possible. This high standard for conservation as well as the emphasis on the care and well-being of the polar bears have me hoping to visit one day soon!

Combining these destinations along with all the stops in the two week itinerary would make for the ultimate Northern Ontario road trip. I can’t wait for the day when I can experience this all myself!

Lindsay Sitting on a Rock Along Lake Superior

The Shores of Lake Superior Are Always Meant to be Enjoyed

Things to Know For Your Northern Ontario Road Trip

There is SO much to see and do that these itineraries could be a little busy for some folks. If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, you know I love to jam pack my trips to see as much as possible. Please enjoy the trip at your leisure and determine what stops are the best for you and which ones to save for another adventure. Let’s be honest – once you’ve experienced it, there’s always going to be another Northern Ontario road trip on the docket!

In the meantime, here are some frequently asked questions and things to know for your Northern Ontario road trip.

Where Should I Go On a Road Trip in Ontario?

My answer will always be Northern Ontario. From Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie to Thunder Bay and beyond, the northern part of the province has so much to offer. It is certainly quite the trek but I think all of the stops in this Northern Ontario road trip post show how it’s worth every kilometre. If you’re looking for more ideas though, don’t miss my Ontario road trip post .

Can You Drive to Northern Ontario?

You sure can drive to Northern Ontario – and I recommend it! A Northern Ontario road trip is the best way to experience this part of the province. That way you can stop and explore at any and all of the stops you like. It’s honestly one of my favourite road trips in Ontario .

Can You Drive Through the Agawa Canyon?

No, the only way to access the Agawa Canyon is via the Agawa Canyon Tour Train . I have heard rumours of locals who know how to access the park through ATVs, but this is NOT advised. Not only are you in bear country, but the forests of Northern Ontario are dense and it’s easy for someone to get lost if you’re bushwacking without knowing the terrain.

Cell Service Can Be Shotty

While you should be fine from Sudbury to Sault Ste Marie, the stretch between Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay is another story. Don’t panic if you see your bars disappear, just make sure you have offline maps downloaded or a GPS handy so you don’t get lost!

Keep an Eye Out for Gas Stations

While there aren’t too many stretches in Northern Ontario where you won’t pass a gas station, there can still be a decent amount of distance between them. I recommend having at least half a tank of gas, if not a full one whenever you leave a major city. Better to be safe than sorry!

Looking For More Things to Do in Northern Ontario? Check Out These Things to Do in Sault Ste Marie in the Winter See Why Sudbury is a Cool Winter Destination Hit The Road With These Amazing Ontario Road Trip Ideas Give Winter Camping a Try at Killarney Provincial Park

I’ve been told that Lake Superior has a certain allure, and I’d say that goes for all of Northern Ontario. There’s just something about the vibe up there that’s different. Maybe it’s the crisp, clear air? Or maybe it’s the hospitality of the locals? It’s hard to put your finger on it, but you’ll feel right at home on this Northern Ontario road trip. I can’t wait to return as the more I explore this beautiful province of mine, the more I fall in love with it.

Disclaimer A HUGE thank you to a number of tourism organizations including Attractions Ontario, Sudbury Tourism, Tourism Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay Tourism for hosting me during a number of Northern Ontario travel adventures. While some of the activities, accommodation & transportation were covered, all reviews and opinions are my own! This post contains affiliate links where I’ll receive a kickback at no extra cost to you which helps keep IBB running . Read more in this disclaimer and privacy policy .

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This is one Canadian road trip you won't want to miss! What better way to explore than with a Northern Ontario road trip? Check out my itinerary as you visit Sault Ste Marie, Sudbury, drive the coast of Lake Superior and more! | #travel #Canada #Ontario #LakeSuperior #Sudbury #SaultSteMarie #RoadTrip #Itinerary | IveBeenBit.ca

24 Comments

I live in Ontario too! I have wanted to explore Northern Ontario and do all of these things. I have driven to Alberta and back 11 times now, each time taking a new way once we reach Manitoba, but I’ve never explored Northern Ontario as much as I would like to! The Lake Superior Drive is one of the best, most underrated drives I have ever been on. Great Post and I can’t wait to do all of this one day!

Lindz author

Oh wow that’s amazing!! I’d love to do a road trip out west. Only fitting since I’ve gone out east! 🙂

Taylor Johnson

The place you went to on Day 4 was absolutely stunning! The waterfall was wow!

Looks like such a great road trip! I can’t wait to get to Canada, it looks incredible!! 🙂

We’re very lucky here! Come on by – you’re always welcome! 😊

Thank you for the thorough review. I would love to go on that train ride through the canyon. The scenery looked breathtaking!

Ann Marie Chisholm

Really enjoyed your blog, the north in Ontario is addictive! Next trip I will use your blog to help in my exploring it.

Thank you and you’re so right, it truly is addictive!! I hope my blog helps for your future adventures! 😀

Agawa canyon a must in fall. Did it a few years & colours only add to its beauty.

I’ve lived in Northern Ontario for almost 13 years now, so it’s nice to see a bit of the local area shown here. All these places are beautiful. I have been to The Soo a number of times, but I have not been to any of those historical places, so I will have to make time to visit them the next time I am there.

Esther Abel

I’m a northerner & have noticed no mention of my birthplace & hometown #KirklandLake ! The main street was accidentally paved with gold Xx There are gold mines there & fresh crystal clean lakes etc. It’s beautiful up there near the #Quebec border A must see 👍🏼🙏🏼🇨🇦

You’re right Esther, I have yet to head north of Sudbury towards Temiskaming or Kirkland Lake! This article is just a small ‘taste’ of Northern Ontario – there really is so much to discover in the north! I hope I have the chance to visit one day soon 🙂

Please come visit the Canadian Polar Bear Habitat in Cochrane next time!

I have yet to make it to Cochrane – I really need to fix this! When I do make it into town, I’ll be sure to stop by the Canadian Polar Bear Habitat!

This is only a little bit of Ontario you need to go all the wat to the Manitoba border to experience all of Northern Ontario

Hi Kathy, you’re right, I definitely do! I’ve recently been to Thunder Bay now and plan to update this post. However, that’s why the title has “dip your toes in” as this definitely is just a taste of Northern Ontario. I look forward to when I can make it all the way to the Manitoba border! 🙂

Absolutely Great Post! Thanks for sharing 🙂

You’re so very welcome! I really hope you found it helpful! 🙂

Wow! There is so much incredible information in this post. I am very familiar with the Sudbury to Thunder Bay route having attended college and university in the Sault and Thunder Bay. The next time you go this route make sure to check out the amethyst mine east of Thunder Bay. It is a great stopping point. But make sure you have room in your car for the amethysts you will dig out.

You are too kind Katrina, thank you! I will be sure to make a stop at the amethyst mine next time I visit. Time wasn’t on my side last visit but I’ll make sure it is next trip! 🙂

I am a Northerner, and you sure missed a lot. There is Kirkland Lake, Timmins, Kapuskasing, and let us not forget the really North. Moosonee, Moose Factory, great Indigenous Heritage. You can only access them via train, but well worth the trip. To many Northerners the North does not end at Sudbury or Thunder Bay it is just the beginning.

Hi Jane, thank you for your comment. Unfortunately I have not made it to many of the places you have mentioned, though they are on my list! I go in and update these posts as I travel. As you can imagine, there’s only so much a one woman show can manage but I certainly do my best to showcase as much of our beautiful province as possible. 🙂

Is doing the 1 week trip in October a good idea? What is the weather like?

One week in October is definitely a-okay in my books! I did one a few years ago across the second week of October right into Thanksgiving and it was fantastic weather. Plus the fall colours are absolutely stunning!

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Northeastern Ontario is only 3 hours from major centres in Southern Ontario, but feels like a world away. Here, the fish are always jumping. Our communities allow you to stay socially distant, yet closely connected with nature. And we’re just as fun in winter as we are in summer.

Make us the first place to visit when the time comes to travel again. Our happy hosts can’t wait to welcome you. Click here to check out some of the places to visit in our region.

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Government of Canada investing $110,000 to support inclusive tourism in Northern Ontario

From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario - FedNor

News release

Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour and Seniors, today announced a FedNor investment of $110,000 for Destination Northern Ontario. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.

FedNor funding will help position tourism destinations as welcoming and inclusive places to visit for 2SLGBTQ+ travellers

February 22, 2024 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

Provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program , the funding will allow Destination Northern Ontario to conduct a 2SLGBTQ+ market readiness capacity building and training program for tourism businesses in Northern Ontario. Specifically, the project will result in the accreditation of 35 businesses as 2SLGBTQ+ welcoming and build local capacity for future business accreditation by training 25 new trainers.

The investment will also support five 2SLGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion training sessions for businesses operating in the Northern Ontario tourism sector, and fund five audits that are designed to assess each destination’s strengths and areas for improvement in their 2SLGBTQ+ market readiness. Taken together, the anticipated outcomes of this project will help position Northern Ontario as a welcoming and inclusive tourism destination for visitors from across the region, province, and country.

“Northern Ontario is a premier destination for tourism, and I am happy that the Government of Canada is stepping up to ensure that our region is a welcoming place for everyone. Today’s investment will drive economic growth by helping to attract visitors to Northern Ontario and give tourism businesses the tools they need to promote safe and inclusive tourism experiences across the region.” -       Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour and Seniors
“I am proud that the Government of Canada is making important investments to strengthen Northern Ontario's reputation as a world-class inclusive tourism destination. This funding will help us grow and expand a critical sector for our region, and create good-paying jobs for middle-class families across Northern Ontario.” -       The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“We are excited that FedNor is helping us position Northern Ontario as a destination of choice for 2SLGBTQ+ travellers. Our region is full of unique and beautiful places to visit, and we’re working to make sure that everyone feels safe and included while experiencing our region.” -       David MacLachlan, Executive Director, Destination Northern Ontario

Quick facts

Originally named Tourism Northern Ontario, Destination Northern Ontario is an organization formed at the direction of the Northern Ontario tourism industry, and funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

Destination Northern Ontario undertakes a holistic approach to economic tourism growth in Northern Ontario. 50% of the organization’s budget is allocated to non-marketing pillars to improve tourism products, develop the tourism workforce and increase capital investments.

Today’s announcement is funded by FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) , through which FedNor invests in projects led by municipalities, First Nations, and other organizations and institutions that support community economic development, diversification, job creation and self-reliant communities in Northern Ontario.

2SLGBTQ+: This acronym represents Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and additional people who identify as part of sexual and gender diverse communities.

Associated links

  • To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.canada.ca
  • Follow us on Twitter @FedNor

Simon Ross Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor [email protected]

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario Media Relations

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Killarney’s Pike Fishing Paradise

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Our first shoot of the year took us to the  Sportsman’s Inn Resort & Marina in Killarney, Ontario .

If you had already watched this episode, you would have seen that it was all about shaking the rust off. And, in our opinion, there is no better species to do this with than the  Northern Pike . For starters, they are one of the first species to have an open season during the calendar. But more than that, these early-spawning, hard-fighting fish allow you to put your gear to the test and get your year moving in the right direction.

killarney aerial

Our trip started as they often do, a meeting with some locals over some good food to get a lay of the land and a status update on our target species. On this trip, that local was a man called not by his name but by his hair colour: Red.

Red Proulx is a lifelong Killarney resident who has made his living as a fishing guide who knows the north shore of Georgian Bay like the backs of his weather-beaten hands. He told us that we were just two weeks removed from ice out and that these recently-spawned fish were just about to re-enter “feed mode”. Best of all, the places where these fish were doing their replenishing were shallow, clear, and all reasonably close to camp.

Let the Fishing Begin

The next morning, we met Red at the docks at sunrise, eager to get an early start and get the first-day, first-shoot jitters out of the way. Toques were still necessary despite the calendar’s recent turn to May and frost still covered the seats of our Princecraft. Spring was certainly here, but winter has not fully given up just yet.

Seats cleared and hoods tightened, we left the docks in the wake of Red’s aluminum, tiller-driven boat. He wound around the rust-coloured boulders like his boat was on tracks and we carefully stayed in the white bubbles that trailed his motor.

Red Giving Tips

Red is a rare breed these days as he still operates without GPS or chartplotter . Every route we ran was mapped out in nowhere but his mind and he knew every rock we narrowly, but expertly, skirted around by name. Modern technology has certainly enhanced the ways we fish but Red’s navigation skills are hard not to envy and are something we hope are not being lost.

Our first location was one that Pete was familiar with, a small, rocky bay just two miles from the lodge where he had fished with Red on a muskie, pike and smallmouth shoot years prior. Check out Pete’s first trip to the Killarney area .

This time, everything about the bay’s boulder-strewn shorelines, burgeoning weed growth, and incoming creek screamed early-season Northern Pike.

Unfortunately, what screams pike in the north of Ontario also screams  Smallmouth Bass , and we quickly learned that this was soon to be their spawning domain. After a quick bunch of casts and a couple of Smallie encounters, it was time to move on.

killarney garmin

Our second spot looked similar to the first, but this time we immediately knew pike were the dominant species. This was an easy assessment as, just moments after Ang stopped the motor and stood up on the deck of the boat, a 20-pound pike skirted out from beneath the boat, her block-shaped back hiding through 2 feet of gin-clear water. We followed her around for as long as we could stay on her trail, but we knew that no bait was going to land this lethargic, energy-depleted female fresh off her annual spawn. Thankfully, she had a smaller friend who was feeling up to an appearance on The Fish’n Canada Show.

First Pike… check!

killarney pike

Georgian Bay can be a mean body of water, but we were blessed with a rare, relatively windless afternoon so our big water convoy rolled on about as smoothly as the  Great Lakes allow. Tucked into a small channel off the main lake, we wound through a maze of rocks and began our afternoon fish.

aerial of the bay

Our First Big Fish Encounter

The sun was high in the sky and we were finally able to feel some of the welcome heat. This time of the year, pike love the sun as much as the anglers do and we had high hopes for what was to come.

Sure enough, the pike activity started to pick up and Ang stuck a couple of fish quickly, and one was big! This fish completely inhaled the Yo-Zuri  Twitchbait , leaving none of its five-inch length visible as we landed her in the net.

killarney pike big

Although we could only muster up one big fish, the ensuing onslaught of smaller Pike was honestly, quite fun. With that said, the boys thought they had a pattern established… Ang’s translucent  Yo-Zuri twitchbait … it was on fire!

There was only one problem: we only had one of them…

Just a few casts after Ang muttered those very words, a small, hammer-handle pike took a run at the gliding bait, missed high, and sliced through his line, swimming off with our last twitch bait that hung like a dog toy from the side of its face. Back to the drawing board.

pete and ang fishing for pike

Our second day on Georgian Bay proved the notion that consistent weather means consistent fishing. The skies stayed clear, the winds stayed low, and the pike stayed stubborn.

After a productive morning of numbers of fish, we had still yet to land a real “showstopper”. Plus, we were still due for one of Red’s famous Northern Pike  shore lunches . To check both off the list, we decided to divide and conquer, Ang and Pete doing some trophy hunting while  Dean ,  Nik , and Red took care of lunch.

fish fillet

Thankfully, both of these goals could also be achieved in the same bay. Red built a fire while Dean and Nik cast from the rocky shoreline into an emerging weed bed just offshore. It was not long before the smell of potatoes and onions was radiating from the rocks and as if in queue Dean and Nik quickly hooked up with the three small pike which they added to the masterful lakeside lunch menu.

northern pike killarney

Meanwhile, Ang and Pete continued fan casting nearby in search of “the big one.”

Ding Ding Ding… was the quasi sound of the dinner bell as the shore lunch crew walkie-talkie relayed a message to Ang and Pete, summoning them to the shores of culinary ecstasy!

killarney shore lunch

The Fish Are There!!!

Funny story. After Shorelunch, we dropped Vova, our drone operator, off on shore. We instantly heard a buzz from our radio and a Ukrainian accent telling us to look 45 degrees out from the nose of our boat. These were specific instructions, even for Vova, but when we obliged we instantly saw why. Swimming just in front of the boat were two GIANT pike… unfortunately, not only could we not see them, but like the true predators they are, this pair disappeared into the abyss.

killarney pike catch

Right Size... Wrong Colour

The boys managed a few smaller fish in the late afternoon, but the real highlight was a gorgeous muskie that Pete had hooked into. When they saw his rod bend, they thought for sure he had hooked into the showstopper fish they had been after, but soon realized they were tangling with the wrong Esox.

Muskie season was about to open two days after this shoot… unfortunately, it was bad timing.

muskie in killarney

Incidental catches of out-of-season fish are often unavoidable when fishing for early-season pike, as they share their territory with so many of our late-spawning gamefish. That being said, it is crucial to take care when dealing with these out-of-season fish as their seasons are closed for a reason.

Muskie, for example, at this time of year, are either weeks away from, in the middle of, or finished spawning and require all the energy they can muster. In the case of this fish, Ang and Pete made the effort to do the least amount of damage possible and did their best to get it to the boat side quickly and release it rather than getting tangled in a net. This beauty was going to need all its energy in the coming weeks and we want these muskie waters to keep their prestige for years to come.

3-YoZuris

Fishing with Electronics

Electronics have changed the game of fishing and were a big part of Ang and Pete’s success on Georgian Bay. Head over to fishncanada.com to see the full breakdown of how they used their Garmin technology on this shoot!

This Killarney Ontario shoot at Sportsman’s Inn was the perfect trip to commence the Fish’n Canada filming season.

It was early in the year giving the crew a good head start, it had the perfect starter species in Pike, the winds cooperated, and it was in a geographic setting that truly is second to none, Georgian Bay.

With a bunch of “fun” sized fish on camera, an incidental apex predator Muskie for some added entertainment and Ang’s beautiful, bait-chomping, big Northern Pike, we’d say this was a great start to the season. 

aerial of marina

More About Killarney, Ontario

Killarney is referred to as the gateway to the North Channel. It is located on the northern shore of Georgian Bay in the Sudbury District of Ontario. Killarney Provincial Park is located to the east of the town. It covers an extremely large area. The eastern portion of the La Cloche Mountain Range is also located within the municipality of Killarney.

If you plan on visiting Killarney, then you must stop in at both Pitfield's General Store and Herbert Fisheries for a nice fish & chips lunch (voted one of the top 10 fish and chip restaurants in Canada by Canadian Living Magazine).

It’s about a 4 ½ hour drive north from the center of Toronto, making this beautiful destination easily accessible to southern Ontarians.

sportsman

EPISODE GETTIN’ THERE: Killarney ON, Sportsman’s Inn Resort and Marina

To get to this gorgeous Pike fishing destination, we first drove north from the GTA on Highway 400 which eventually turns into hwy 69.

We next turned west on Highway 637.

We followed 637 into the town of Killarney.

We next turned right on Channel St and finally ended up at the gorgeous Sportsman’s Inn Resort and Marina . From there, you have access to some amazing multi-species fishing waters.

The Sportsman's Inn sits perched atop the pebbled shores of the North Channel, surrounded by glistening waters and windswept pines that characterize Georgian Bay. Anchored by history and rich with community, the Inn is a lively hub of local stories, folklore and entertainment.

The inn is a full-service resort offering modern amenities and affordable docking rates, along with a world-class marina in the Killarney Channel. Whether you’re stopping by during a cruise or planning an extended stay, the Sportsman’s Inn promises to provide an exceptional, all-season resort experience rooted in curiosity and comfort.

Dining at the Sportsman’s Inn is an experience that extends beyond delicious food. Many of the guests highlight the varying dining options and their associated experiences as some of the most memorable moments during their stay. With live music taking place on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer season, guests are not only offered top-notch food but also outstanding entertainment.

sportsman inn

All in all, the Sportsman’s Inn is as much a family destination as it is a fishing destination. It’s a must-visit!

Special Thanks & Links

  • Destination Ontario  https://www.destinationontario.com/en-ca
  • Sportsman’s Inn  https://www.sportsmansinn.ca/
  • Killarney Triple Threat  https://fishncanada.com/tv/episode-459/

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Plan a Fishing Trip in Ontario

Edited body text.

As one of the original pioneers of Canadian adventure television, the Fish'n Canada Show has been broadcasting their pursuit of the ultimate adventure for over 30 years. Hosts Angelo Viola and Pete Bowman educate and entertain audiences with their passion and enthusiasm for fishing. Both are inductees in the Canadian Anglers Hall of Fame. Check out their episodes and video on the Fish'n Canada YouTube Channel and like them on Facebook!

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Ultimate Ontario

Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Ontario

Experiences nature’s wonder at these amazing places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario. Where To see the northern lights in Ontario and how to photograph them.

Northern lights in Ontario

One of the best aspects of life in Ontario is the weather. As the southernmost of all the provinces and territories in Canada, Ontario gets some spectacular summers and winters that don’t reach the frigid temperatures of many of our northern neighbours.

It also, however, means that people in Ontario often miss out on one of the most spectacular natural light shows in existence. But, if you’re looking to experience the northern lights in Ontario, rest assured, it is possible. We just have to be a bit more patient in how we approach it.

I’ve been lucky enough to have seen the Aurora Borealis in places around the world. I’ve witnessed them in Iceland, Norway, Finland, and even here in Canada. Ontario, though, is home for me.

So I’ve made it my mission to track down the best places to see the northern lights right here in Ontario, and then share it with you.

What Are The Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, which are often called by their scientific name, Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon where electrically charged particles interact with the Earth’s atmosphere. The particles are often caused by increased solar activity such as solar flares.

As the particles enter the atmosphere they collide with oxygen and nitrogen gasses causing curtains of colour to dance in the night sky. The northern lights in Ontario can be seen in several different colours including greens, blues, and reds. The colours are based on what type of element the solar particles are interacting with.

Are you wondering whether these lights are exclusive to the north? Well, they aren’t the Southern Lights, or Aurora Astralis, which are also a thing. However, because the southern hemisphere has a relatively unpopulated landmass, these lights are much less likely to be seen.

Solar activity tends to run in cycles that last between 11-15 years. They start low and reach a peak before cycling down to begin the next cycle. The current cycle reached its peak in 2014 and is on its way down. However, don’t let that dissuade you. In fact, 2019 was one of the best years for solar activity due to some fantastic solar storms.

Can You See The Northern Lights In Ontario?

If you’re wondering if you can see the northern lights in Ontario, the answer is yes!

While it is true that you are more likely to experience the northern lights in northern regions such as the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Iqaluit, Ontario is still a hot spot for northern lights experiences. And because this province is so huge, there is a lot of territory to experience Ontario’s dark skies .

How Can You See The Ontario Northern Lights?

With long days and short nights, summer in Ontario isn’t ideal for seeing the northern lights of Ontario. But as the days get shorter and the nights get longer, fall and winter offer the best opportunities for seeing the Aurora. October through late March tend to be ideal. However, the nights through December and January are often cloudy. Cold, clear nights are your friend when searching for the northern lights in Ontario.

The darker the sky, the better the opportunity for catching this elusive phenomenon, so waiting till the sun drops far below the horizon is best. Between 11 pm and 3 pm tend to be ideal. For your best opportunities head to one of these amazing Ontario stargazing spots to take advantage of Ontario’s official dark sky preserves.

What Are The Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Ontario?

Ontario Northern Lights on Manitoulin Island

Ok, so we’ve figured out the basics of northern lights viewing in Ontario. So let’s get on to where you can find the northern lights in Ontario! Well, you’ll be happy to know that some of the best places to see the northern lights in Ontario aren’t too far away from major cities such as Toronto and Ottawa. If you’re looking to see the northern lights in Toronto or Niagara you’ll need only drive a few hours north to get to some incredible places.

Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is one of Ontario’s most overlooked destinations in Ontario. The largest island in a freshwater lake, those who haven’t been to Manitoulin Island don’t know much about it because those who have been want to keep the secret to themselves.

During summer, Manitoulin Island is packed with anglers, cottagers, and adventure types enjoying some of the best hikes in Ontario . But during the fall and winter season, the island is quiet with just a few locals relaxing in peaceful bliss.

Manitoulin, which sits on the northern shores of Lake Huron is a magical place teeming with Indigenous culture. Life here moves at a relaxed pace that might seems almost absurd to those from the bustling big cities. But Manitoulin is also home to some of the darkest skies in Ontario.

While much of the island offers fantastic northern skies for viewing the Northern Lights in Ontario, Gordon’s Park Eco Reserve specifically has nights dedicated to viewing the night sky. The pollution-free air combined with the windy skies of Lake Huron helps keep the skies clear for stargazing through much of the year.

Gordon’s Park is a popular spot for night-sky pros, so if you’re new to astrophotography or the northern lights, you’ll likely find some experts who might be willing to share their tips.

Lake Superior Provincial Park

Landscape in Ontario doesn’t get much more spectacular than the Lake Superior coast. And anyone who loves northern lights photography knows that a big part of what makes night sky photography so thrilling is finding an epic foreground.

Northwestern Ontario has some incredible skies, and Lake Superior Provincial Park is a designated dark sky preserve. All of these things combine for one of the most amazing places to see the northern lights in Ontario.

For some of the most incredible foregrounds for northern lights photography, head to Old Woman Bay where 1,000 metre cliffs surge from the dark waters of Lake Superior.

Cree Village Eco Lodge

It’s no surprise that the further north you go, the better your chances of experiencing the northern lights in Ontario. And it doesn’t get much more north in Ontario than on the shores of Hudson Bay.

Cree Village Ecolodge sits on the Moose River near James Bay in Moose Factory. This most epic of northern lights getaways in Ontario is accessible only by train or air. A visit here can include exploring Moose Factory Island, which was the home of the world’s oldest existing company, the Hudson’s Bay Company.

Cree Village Ecolodge allows you to combine an incredible Indigenous tourism experience with the spectacular skies and wildlife that only a visit to Hudson’s Bay can offer. All while enjoying the simple luxury of a spectacular property and dining on Cree-fusion dishes in the beautiful dining room or roasting bannock and berries over an open fire outside.

During the winter you’ll likely be accessing Moosonee via plane and either taking a helicopter (when the ice is broken) or via taxi over the ice road (during midwinter) to access the lodge.

Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve

The closest place to see the northern lights near Toronto is Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve which is northwest of the town of Gravenhurst , about two hours north of the GTA.

With so much light pollution disrupting the views of the sky in Southern Ontario, getting great views of the northern lights in southern Ontario is very challenging. Torrance Barrens offers an incredibly accessible night-sky viewing experience for those who want to stay closer to home.

If you time your visit with one of the larger solar flares, you’ll have a great chance to see the aurora close to home.

The small town of Chapleau hardly registers on the radar of most travellers in Ontario. But there is a lot happening in this historic Ontario town, especially during the winters.

At 7,000 sq. km, the Chapleau Game Preserve is the largest wildlife preserve on the planet. This town, which was originally established as a Hudson’s Bay Company outpost back in 1777, sits right between Wawa and Timmins. And it has some inky black skies.

It’s combination of both northern positioning and remote location, means that Chapleau is perfect for seeing the northern lights in Ontario.

Quetico Provincial Park

In February, 2021, Ontario Parks announced that Quetico Provincial Park had been given the coveted International Dark Sky Park certfication by the Dark-Sky Association . This makes it one of the newest places for Northern Lights viewing in Ontario. This makes it the 3rd publicly-owned land in the region to achieve Dark Sky stats.

Quetico, which borders Minnesota west of the shores of Lake Superior has long been a favorite destination for those looking to experience the magic of northern Ontario. And this offers another enticing reason to visit.

Quetico isn’t just one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario. For those enjoying winter in the park, it offers some of the best ice fishing in Ontario .

Tips for Northern Lights Viewing In Ontario

Northern Lights over Lake Superior in Ontario

  • Check the weather and cloud cover before you head out.
  • Learn if there have been any reported solar activity that may contribute to northern lights in Ontario at SpaceWeather.com .
  • Get as far away from the city lights as possible.
  • Make sure to bring a red light with you. Red light does not affect your night vision. Avoid using white light as it will lower your ability to see in the dark for up at 60-minutes.
  • Bring a thermos with some hot chocolate to keep warm. Pack blankets, sweaters, and jackets. Most northern lights in Ontario happen while it’s cold.

Tips For Photographing Ontario’s Northern Lights

I would love to say that those magical shots of glowing skies matched perfectly with a crisp and clear foreground came with no effort. But photographing the northern lights in Ontario does require a little bit of work to get the right shot. Here are a few pro tips that will help you out.

  • Most northern lights in Ontario are relatively faint. In order to brighten them up, you’ll need to take a long-exposure on your camera. Ensure that your camera has a “manual” or “night” mode that will allow you to keep your shutter open for at least a few seconds.
  • Use a tripod and set it on a solid surface to get your shot. This will ensure that wind, hand, and even breathing doesn’t make your photo blurry.
  • If you have a manual camera, set your shutter speed (how long your camera’s lens is open) to between 10-30 seconds and your iso (your film or sensor sensitivity) to around 800-1600.
  • Use a manual camera release (remote) or an on-camera countdown timer to ensure you aren’t touching the camera when the picture is taken. That can cause shake or blurriness.
  • If your camera allows for manual focus, set your camera’s focal length to infinity (∞). If your camera only has automatic focus, try to set it to the sky and ensure that it isn’t trying to focus on objects in the foreground.

Do you have favourite places to see the northern lights in Ontario? Head over to the Ultimate Ontario travel community on Facebook and join our conversation. Or sign up for the Ultimate Ontario newsletter to stay informed about the best things to do in Ontario.

Kevin Wagar Ultimate Ontario founder

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of Ultimate Ontario. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home province of Ontario and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

Sunday 24th of September 2023

We are a group of friends that is really looking forward to experience the northern lights in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Would you be able to advise the couple of best dates in October and few spots around Toronto (within 2-3 drive) to witness this beautiful experience.

Kevin Wagar

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

Hello Ruchika,

The Aurora is a natural phenomenon. As such, I can't recommend specific dates, however this October is gearing up to be a fairly active one. I would recommend using the resources in the article including the Aurora map to watch the forecast. Northern Lights in Ontario are very unpredictable until about 12-24 hours beforehand. You best chance close to Toronto is Hardy Lake Provincial Park, which is known for its dark skies.

Friday 18th of August 2023

I’m wondering what is the closest place to Toronto/Mississauga that you can see the northern lights? Is it true that you can see them in Hamilton?

The closest place that you'll have much luck is Torrance Barrens Provincial Park, which is listed in the article. While it may be possible, if all of the stars align, to see them around Hamilton, it's extremely unlikely due to the southern location, light pollution, and other factors.

Friday 17th of February 2023

Hi Kevin Will there be any northern light this weekend feb 18 or 19 2023? What’s the best place to visit and this is my first time

Saturday 18th of February 2023

Hello Mahesh,

This article gives you all the resources to answer your questions.

Please check out the Aurora watch link at the bottom to see current activities and check your weather app to look for locations with clear skies.

Happy stargazing!

J Dearstyne

Friday 16th of December 2022

Have seen them when I lived in Toronto

Christopher Mitchell

Monday 19th of December 2022

Oh really?! Where!?

Thursday 1st of September 2022

Thanks for sharing Northern lights information of Ontario. I find it very useful. In 2022 fall, are there any lodging houses back to operations? Besides, how many nights of stay do you recommend to maximize the chance of seeing the lights? Thanks in advance for your advice.

Tuesday 13th of September 2022

Cree Village is now closed however, a good option might be northern Ontario fishing lodges that run through the shoulder season. I can't name any off the top of my head, but there are a few that remain open throughout the fall.

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Northern ontario marine area could soon be protected.

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From left: MP Adam van Koeverden, Mushkegowuk Council’s Lawrence Martin and Parks Canada’s Ron Hallman were in Kashechewan First Nation for a Feb. 21 announcement about a proposed national marine conservation area in western James Bay and southwestern Hudson Bay/Ron Grech

A Northern Ontario area that has one of the largest beluga populations in Canada and a threatened population of polar bears is one step closer to officially protecting its biodiverse marine environment.

The Mushkegowuk Council and the Government of Canada have completed a feasibility assessment to establish a proposed national marine conservation area (NMCA) in western Weeneebeg (James Bay) and southwestern Washaybeyoh (Hudson Bay).

The area is also a global hotspot for breeding and migrating water birds, including the endangered Red Knot — one of the longest distance migrants in the animal kingdom. The Omushkego have lived here since time immemorial and their traditional territories cover a large portion of the Hudson-James Bay Lowlands and extend beyond the coast into the marine region and its islands.

The Feb. 21 announcement was made in the community of Kashechewan by Grand Chief Leo Friday of Mushkegowuk Council and Adam van Koeverden, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Protecting this marine ecosystem helps to conserve biodiversity and assist with climate change mitigation, and helps the continuity of the cultures and traditions of Omushkego Cree communities who have long been stewards of these lands and waters. The proposed NMCA would provide for Omushkego people to exercise their rights to decision-making for the future of the area through shared governance with Parks Canada.

“We hunt, trap, and fish for survival,” Mushkegowuk Council Grand Chief Leo Friday said in a news release. “We signed a treaty that we were told would allow us to continue to be stewards of our traditional lands and waters. This is a welcome step toward fulfilling that promise.”

Parks Canada and other federal government departments will collaborate to implement interim protection for the proposed NMCA. Parks Canada and the Omushkego people will strive to ensure the proposed national marine conservation area fully supports community members in maintaining and enhancing connections to lands, waters, and ice for the continuity of inherent rights including harvesting.

Engagement and consultation will continue during the next stages toward establishment. Once protected, the new NMCA would also contribute 1.5 per cent to Canada’s target of protecting 30 per cent of lands and waters by 2030.

“Canadians are just beginning to appreciate the global significance of this marine ecosystem where the Omushkego have stewarded forever, where polar bears roam and belugas swim,” said Wildlands League Executive Director Janet Sumner. “The Omushkego are doing conservation their own way all the while giving hope to a country and the world.”

A steering committee is helping guide the feasibility assessment for the proposed NMCA in western James Bay It includes representatives from both Parks Canada and Mushkegowuk Council which represents seven First Nations (Attawapiskat, Kashechewan, Fort Albany, Moose Cree, Chapleau Cree, Taykwa Tagamou, and Missanabie Cree), as well as Weenusk and Fort Severn First Nations.

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This app is packed with RVing specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 parks. You'll also find stories about RVing in the parks, some tips if you've just recently turned into an RVer, and some planning suggestions. A bonus that wasn't in the previous eBook or PDF versions of this guide are feeds of Traveler content: you'll find our latest stories as well as our most recent podcasts just a click away. So whether you have an iPhone or an Android , download this app and start exploring the campgrounds in the National Park System where you can park your rig.

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