At Discover Northern Ontario, we are deeply committed to putting our customers first in everything we do. We believe in the philosophy that “the customer is king,” and this belief drives every decision we make. Our goal is to offer not just a trip, but a carefully crafted Northern Ontario road trip experience filled with comfort, excitement, and peace of mind. From the moment you choose us as your travel partner, we take full responsibility for your journey, planning every detail to ensure it’s seamless, enjoyable, and memorable.
Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, we make it our priority to deliver outstanding service that exceeds your expectations. Our hotels and resorts are equipped with premium amenities, including modern gyms and wellness centers, so you never miss a beat in your routine. With the Discover Northern Ontario road trip, you can simply focus on the joy of the journey while we handle everything else.
In this article, we will focus on a Northern Ontario road trip itinerary for its scenic routes & must-see stops.
Day 1: Toronto to Sudbury (Approx. 400 km)
Begin your adventure by heading north from Toronto to Sudbury. Along the way, consider a detour to Killarney Provincial Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. In Sudbury, visit the iconic Big Nickel and explore Science North, an interactive science museum suitable for all ages.
Day 2: Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie (Approx. 310 km)
Travel westward to Sault Ste. Marie, a city rich in history and natural beauty. Explore the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site and the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Don’t miss a stroll along the waterfront boardwalk for picturesque views of the St. Marys River.
Day 3: Sault Ste. Marie to Lake Superior Provincial Park (230 km)
Embark on one of the most scenic drives in Ontario along Highway 17, hugging the Lake Superior shoreline. Stop at Pancake Bay Provincial Park for its sandy beaches and panoramic views. Continue to Lake Superior Provincial Park, where you can hike to the Agawa Rock Pictographs, ancient Indigenous rock carvings accessible via a short trail.
Day 4: Lake Superior Provincial Park to Wawa and Pukaskwa National Park (Approx. 250 km)
Head north to Wawa, home to the famous Wawa Goose statue. Visit Scenic High Falls before proceeding to Pukaskwa National Park. Here, explore rugged hiking trails and enjoy the tranquility of Lake Superior’s shoreline. Look out for the Ontario travel guide for a better understanding of the Northern Ontario road trip.
Day 5: Pukaskwa National Park to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park (Approx. 350 km)
Continue your journey to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and diverse wildlife. Hike the Top of the Giant Trail for breathtaking views over Lake Superior. The park offers excellent camping facilities amidst its pristine natural setting for the Ontario travel guide.
Day 6: Explore Thunder Bay
Spend the day in Thunder Bay, visiting attractions like the Terry Fox Monument and Fort William Historical Park. Enjoy local cuisine and explore the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Day 7: Return to Toronto (Approx. 1,400 km)
Begin your return journey to Toronto, perhaps taking a different route to experience new landscapes and communities. Consider stopping in towns like Marathon or Nipigon for rest and exploration.
Camping Along the Way
Northern Ontario road trip boasts numerous camping opportunities.
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Lake Superior Provincial Park: Offers both car camping and backcountry sites.
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Pukaskwa National Park Features secluded campsites with stunning lake views.
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Sleeping Giant Provincial Park: Provides well-equipped campgrounds and access to extensive hiking trails.
Remember to book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Tips for a Successful Road Trip
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Plan Ahead: Distances between towns can be significant; ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry extra fuel and supplies.
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Stay Connected: Cell service may be limited in remote areas; download offline maps and inform someone of your itinerary.
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Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment and enjoy your road trip itinerary in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are there good camping sites along the way?
A: Yes, numerous provincial and national parks offer well-maintained camping facilities, including Lake Superior Provincial Park, Pukaskwa National Park, and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Q2: What is the best road trip route through Northern Ontario?
A: The route from Toronto to Thunder Bay via Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie along Highway 17 is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and access to key attractions.
Q3: How many days should I plan for a Northern Ontario road trip?
A: A 7-day itinerary allows for a comprehensive experience, but extending to 10 days provides a more relaxed pace with additional exploration opportunities.
