If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring wide-open highways, pristine lakes, and rugged wilderness, there’s nothing quite like a road trip through Northern Ontario. Stretching from the eastern shores of Lake Superior to the northern edge of the boreal forest, this region is vast, wild, and spectacular.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, serenity, or a taste of authentic Canadian culture, Ontario road trips through the north deliver it all — winding along scenic lakeshores, through charming small towns, and past endless forests where moose, eagles, and black bears roam.
This guide outlines the ultimate Northern Ontario vacation, complete with travel routes, must-see stops, and local experiences that make the journey unforgettable.
1. Why Choose Northern Ontario for Your Road Trip
Northern Ontario is one of Canada’s most underrated travel destinations. It offers everything a road-tripper could ask for: breathtaking views, peaceful drives, and welcoming communities that make you feel right at home.
Unlike crowded tourist hubs in southern regions, Northern Ontario offers space — the kind of vast, open landscapes that inspire reflection and wonder. For travelers who crave authenticity, this part of the province feels like stepping back into the true Canadian wilderness.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring scenic highways Ontario is famous for, or camping under the northern lights, the region rewards every explorer with beauty and peace in equal measure.
2. Planning Your Ontario Road Trip
Before hitting the road, it’s essential to prepare. The distances in Northern Ontario can be long, so plan your route, pack essentials, and make sure your vehicle is in good shape.
Here are a few tips:
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Timing: The best months for a Northern Ontario road trip are June through September, when the weather is mild and most attractions are open.
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Packing: Bring insect repellent, hiking shoes, and a camera — you’ll need them all.
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Accommodation: Book ahead during summer, especially in popular destinations like Sault Ste. Marie or Thunder Bay.
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Fuel: Gas stations can be far apart; always refuel when you can.
With these basics covered, let’s map out the ultimate route for your Ontario road trip adventure.
3. The Classic Northern Ontario Route: Lake Superior Circle Tour
One of the most iconic travel routes Canada has to offer is the Lake Superior Circle Tour, a breathtaking journey around the world’s largest freshwater lake. The Ontario portion of this trip showcases some of the province’s most dramatic scenery.
Day 1–2: Sault Ste. Marie and Batchawana Bay
Start your trip in Sault Ste. Marie, the gateway to the north. Explore the Soo Locks, take a walk along the waterfront boardwalk, or ride the Agawa Canyon Tour Train for jaw-dropping canyon views.
Head north to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park for a swim in crystal-clear waters and an overnight stay at a cozy lakeside inn or campground.
Day 3–4: Lake Superior Provincial Park
Drive along Highway 17, one of the most scenic highways Ontario offers. This stretch between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa are pure magic — rugged cliffs, turquoise coves, and ancient pictographs at Agawa Rock.
Don’t miss Old Woman Bay, a postcard-perfect stop for photos and picnics. Spend a night camping under the stars at Katherine Cove or Rabbit Blanket Lake.
Day 5–6: Wawa to Thunder Bay
Continue north to Wawa, where the giant Wawa Goose welcomes travelers. Stop by Pukaskwa National Park, a pristine wilderness area with suspension bridges, coastal hiking trails, and sweeping lake views.
Next, head toward Thunder Bay, visiting Aguasabon Falls in Terrace Bay along the way. In Thunder Bay, climb Sleeping Giant Provincial Park for panoramic views or visit Fort William Historical Park for a glimpse of 19th-century fur-trade life.
4. Beyond the Lake: Hidden Northern Ontario Routes
If you have extra time or crave off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider extending your trip north or inland. Here are some lesser-known but equally incredible detours for Ontario road trip enthusiasts.
a) The Temiskaming Loop
Starting from North Bay, the Temiskaming Loop crosses into Quebec before looping back through Northern Ontario. It’s a perfect mix of culture, history, and nature — with highlights like Haileybury, Cobalt’s mining heritage, and the stunning Lake Temiskaming shoreline.
b) Manitoulin Island
Take a ferry from Tobermory to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. With rolling farmland, Indigenous culture, and turquoise coves, it’s a peaceful detour worth exploring before you venture farther north.
c) Timmins and Cochrane
For wildlife lovers, the route east to Timmins and Cochrane offers boreal forests, rivers, and the Polar Bear Habitat, where rescued bears live in natural surroundings. It’s an ideal side trip for families seeking a memorable Northern Ontario vacation experience.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Experiences
Northern Ontario is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, paddling, or wildlife photography, the opportunities are endless.
Hiking
Trails like Pukaskwa’s Coastal Trail, Sleeping Giant’s Top of the Giant, and Eagle Canyon’s Suspension Bridges offer some of the best hiking in Canada.
Canoeing & Kayaking
Paddle the quiet lakes of Killarney Provincial Park, explore the Mattawa River, or take a guided canoe trip through Quetico Provincial Park, one of the most remote and pristine wilderness areas in Ontario.
Fishing
Northern Ontario is legendary for fishing. From walleye and pike to trout and bass, you’ll find world-class angling across thousands of lakes.
These adventures add an unforgettable layer to your Ontario road trips, blending scenic beauty with authentic Canadian wilderness experiences.
6. Small Towns and Local Culture
The charm of Northern Ontario lies in its people as much as its landscapes. Stop in local towns for small diners, farmers’ markets, and community festivals that showcase northern hospitality.
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Wawa: Famous for its goose statue and local artisans.
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Elliot Lake: Once a mining town, now a scenic retreat with lakeside trails.
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Thunder Bay: A cultural hub with Finnish saunas, Indigenous art, and a vibrant food scene.
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Kenora: Gateway to Lake of the Woods, known for waterfront dining and music festivals.
Each stop adds character and color to your Northern Ontario vacation, offering stories and encounters you’ll remember long after the drive ends.
7. Scenic Highways and Unforgettable Views
When it comes to scenic highways, Ontario has some of the most breathtaking drives in North America. The open roads of Northern Ontario are where the journey truly becomes the destination.
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Highway 17 (Trans-Canada): The crown jewel of northern routes, hugging Lake Superior’s rugged coastline.
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Highway 11: Connects classic northern communities like Temagami, Cochrane, and Hearst.
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Highway 144: A tranquil stretch through deep forests, ideal for spotting wildlife.
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Highway 101: Links Timmins and Wawa with a mix of lakes, rock cuts, and charming small towns.
Each route is a story in itself — a ribbon of road weaving through some of Canada’s most dramatic scenery.
8. Where to Stay Along the Way
From cozy lodges to lakeside resorts and family-owned motels, Northern Ontario offers accommodations for every traveler.
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Campgrounds: Perfect for adventure seekers wanting to sleep under the stars.
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Inns & B&Bs: Found in towns like Marathon and Nipigon, offering warm hospitality.
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Boutique Hotels: In Thunder Bay or Sault Ste. Mari, for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Booking early during peak season is recommended, especially along popular travel routes s Canada, which is famous for.
9. Sample 7-Day Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrive in Sault Ste. Marie → Explore the city and the waterfront
Day 2: Drive to Lake Superior Park → Camp overnight at Old Woman Bay
Day 3: Visit Wawa → Explore local attractions and stay in Marathon
Day 4: Hike in Pukaskwa National Park → Drive to Terrace Bay
Day 5: Stop at Aguasabon Falls → Continue to Thunder Bay
Day 6: Explore Sleeping Giant and Kakabeka Falls
Day 7: Return via Highway 11 or fly home from Thunder Bay
This route captures the essence of Ontario road trips — nature, history, and a sense of freedom that only Northern Ontario can provide.
Conclusion
A road trip through Northern Ontario is more than just a drive — it’s a journey into the heart of Canada’s wild beauty. Between the endless lakes, winding roads, and welcoming small towns, you’ll find adventure, peace, and a connection to nature that’s increasingly rare.
Whether you follow the famous Lake Superior Circle Tour or craft your own route through hidden backroads, the experience will stay with you forever.
So pack your bags, cue up your playlist, and discover the magic of a Northern Ontario vacation — where the open road and breathtaking wilderness await around every bend.
FAQs
Q1. What’s the best road trip route in Northern Ontario?
A: The Lake Superior Circle Tour is considered the best route — offering incredible views, parks, and small towns from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay and beyond.
Q2. How many days are needed for a Northern Ontario trip?
A: Ideally, plan 7 to 10 days to fully experience the region’s highlights, scenic highways, and natural attractions without feeling rushed.
