25 Ultimate Stops on a Northern Ontario Road Trip

One of the best road trips in Ontario, and possibly Canada, is to head north along the Trans Canada Highway. While the journey from Toronto to Thunder Bay is over 1300 km, I promise you it is SO worth it! If you love exploring the incredible parks, hiking to cliff top views, and visiting off the beaten path cities then you’ll love this Northern Ontario road trip.

Below you’ll find an epic Northern Ontario road trip planner that includes detailed stops at provincial parks, waterfalls, and fun roadside attractions. As someone who has done this road trip a number of times, I’m sharing all my favourite places to stops between Toronto and Thunder Bay. I have family in Sault Ste. Marie, so I’ve done half the road trip dozens of times and always find new gems.

In addition to sharing all the top outdoor stops, you’ll also find cities and cultural sites. There’s something for everyone on this road trip, from nature lovers to history buffs. I’ve also created a Northern Ontario road trip itinerary for both 7 days and 10.

So, pack your bags, load the car, and get ready to start planning an incredible road trip.

Toronto to Thunder Bay Road Trip At a Glance

Here’s a quick glace for the best route through northern Ontario. Below is a snapshot of the ultimate Northern Ontario road trip along Highway 17. This 7 day road trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay Itinerary that includes the best stops. For a more detailed 7 day and 10 day itinerary head to the bottom of the post.

Day 1: Toronto to Sudbury
Day 2: Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie
Day 3: Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa
Day 4: Wawa to Thunder Bay
Day 5 – 6: Thunder Bay
Day 7: Return to Toronto

25 Best Stops on a Northern Ontario Road Trip

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French River Provincial Park

The French River Provincial Park is a great first stop on your Northern Ontario road trip for its historic Canadian importance and for its natural beauty. The French River is a river of national historic significance and is the first river to be designated a Canadian Heritage River.

After you wander around the Visitors Centre’s small museum exhibit head down the trail to the 500-foot long suspension bridge offering sweeping views of the French River Gorge. And before you go, don’t forget to check out their fabulous gift shop! It’s one of my favourites!

Time & Distance from Toronto: 3.15 hours (330 km)
Time spent: 1 – 2 hours

Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park is one of the best parks in Ontario. Encompassing nearly 50,000 hectares, it stretches from the northern shore of Georgian Bay to the La Cloche Mountains. Plus, it’s home to over 50 lakes.

It’s also home to around 12 different trails, taking you some of the best trail views in Ontario! The trails include bogs, lakes, enchanted forests, and epic views.

If you’re looking for a great short day hike, then I suggest Granite Ridge Trail. This moderate trail takes you through the forests, across the Canadian Shield and up to two incredible views. To the north you’ll see the dynamic La Cloche Hills and to the south the grand Georgian Bay waters.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 4 hours (416 km)
Time spent: 2+ hours

You’ll be doing a lot of hiking on this road trip! So, be sure to pack these hiking must haves for a successful day hike.

Sudbury

Every northern Ontario road trip from Toronto should include a couple of days in Sudbury. This dynamic city is a great stop for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Two of the top places to visit in Sudbury are perfect for families visiting with kids. Science North features an IMAX theatre and numerous interactive exhibits. Dynamic Earth, where you’ll find the Big Nickel, offers guided tours underground. It’s a fun and unique way to learn about Sudbury’s mining history.

Nature lovers will love the variety of outdoor activities in Sudbury. This year-round outdoor hotspot is home to cross-country ski and skate trails. Plus, there’s countless hiking trails! One of my favourite places to hike in Sudbury is Kivi Park.

Sudbury is also well known for street art! As one of the top places to find street art in Ontario, I love strolling around downtown to take in the countless murals.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 4 hours (400 km)
Time spent: 1 – 2 nights

Chutes Provincial Park

A great stop between Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie is Chutes Provincial Park. It’s the only provincial park between the two cities.

Set along the Aux Sables River, Chutes Provincial Park has seasonal camping. It’s home to one hiking trail, Twin Bridges Trail, which is 6 km.

If you’re looking to stretch your legs, hiking the Twin Bridges Trail in Chutes is ideal. Running along the river, the trail features lookouts over the waterfall and takes about 2 hours. Plus, you’ll find interpretive panels that share the story of the area.

You can also enjoy a quick stop too! During one of my road trips north, I stopped at the park to take in the awesome views of the beautiful cascading waterfall.

I highly recommend adding this stop if you’re road tripping in the fall! The view of the falls, surrounded by brilliant fall colours, from the beach below is spectacular.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 4 hours and 40 minutes (490 km)
Time spent: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Kennebec Falls

Ten minutes west of Spanish is another waterfall. Located right off Highway 17 is Kennebec Falls. This waterfall along the Spanish River is small, with about a 10-foot drop. But you can see if from the road.

Insider Tip: To safely pull over to see it, there’s a rest stop on the south side of the highway.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 5 hours (525 km)
Time spent: 5 minutes

Elliot Lake Fire Tower

An optional stop on a Northern Ontario road trip that involves a hour detour is the Elliot Lake Fire Tower. It offers sweeping views from the area’s highest point. On a clear day you can see all the way to Manitoulin Island!

The Elliot Lake Fire Tower lookout is located 30 minutes north of Highway 17. So, a visit to the lookout will add an extra hour plus to your drive. But it’s worth it!

In addition to the lookout, there’s the original ranger tower and cabin.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 5.5 hours (563 km)
Time spent: 10-15 minutes

Algoma Mills Scenic Lookout

Minutes before Algoma Mills is a scenic lookout. Located on the north side of the highway, this Algoma Mills Scenic Lookout features a small wooden platform and viewing glasses. You’ll enjoy views of Bootleggers Bay and the North Channel islands.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 5 hours and 20 minutes (549 km)
Time spent: ~ 5 minutes

Blind River

Sitting on the northern shore of the North Channel is the small town of Blind River. Best known for its logging history, a stop in Blind River is great for history buffs.

To learn more about the area and its history, head down to the marina. Here you’ll find the Timber Village Museum as well as an Art Gallery.

With a number of waterfront parks, stop at the Butterfly Grill, a seasonal food truck. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy it down by the water before continuing on.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 5.5 hours (560 km)
Time spent: ~1 hour

Mississagi River Picnic Grounds

Between Blind River and Iron Bridge is a fantastic place to stop to stretch your legs or enjoy a bite to eat. The Mississagi River Picnic Grounds is located on the southside of the highway.

It offers scenic views of the river and Woman Island. Plus, it’s a great spot for bird watching! Ever trip I take north; I always stop here. I always see countless bald eagles feeding on fish from the river.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 5 hours and 40 minutes (573 km)
Time spent: 5 – 15 minutes

Bruce Mines

Another cute town along Highway 17 to stop at is Bruce Mines. This Algoma District town is best known for Canada’s first copper mine from the 1850’s.

At Bruce Mines Museum, you’ll learn about the area’s history. Located in a historic church, the museum features over 7000 artifacts. Plus, the site of the original Simpson Copper Mine Shaft is restored and offers guided tours in the summer.

If you’re looking for a quick stop or bite to eat then I highly recommend a visit to Copper Bean Café. I stop in every time I pass by for a coffee and one of her delicious pastries.

For those looking for unique places to stay on their Toronto to Thunder Bay road trip, Bruce Mines has one of the coolest! With Bruce Bay Cottages you can stay in a lighthouse!

Time & Distance from Toronto: 6 hours 15 minutes (633 km)
Time spent: 20 minutes to 1 hour

Big Loonie in Echo Bay  

One of the best big Northern Ontario roadside attractions is the Big Loonie! Located in Echo Bay, the Loon Dollar Monument is 25 minutes east of Sault Ste. Marie.

The Big Loonie is not along the main Highway 17, its situated along the old section of the highway that’s now 17B.

Insider Tip: Want to stretch your legs? There’s a scenic boardwalk trail behind the Loonie. The Lake George Marsh Boardwalk takes you out to a bird-viewing platform.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 7 hours (673 km)
Time spent: 5 – 20 minutes

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie is the third largest city in Northern Ontario and it’s full of small town charm. Located on the St. Mary’s River, it’s a stone’s throw from Sault, Michigan – its twin city in the USA.

The Soo, as it’s affectionately called by locals, is one of North America’s oldest settlements. From the Ojibwa to the Jesuit Missionaries, Sault Ste. Marie has been inhabited for at least 2,000 years.

Sault Ste. Marie makes a great stop as its at the midway point between Toronto and Thunder Bay. I highly recommend staying the night, or spending a few days exploring the city.

There is a ton of things to do in Sault Ste Marie, like hiking or biking the Hub Trail, which circles the city. Or visit the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site to delve into the area’s history. And don’t forget to visit Roberta Bondar Park – named in honour of Canada’s first female astronaut who is from the Soo!

If you are extending your stay, there are a number of fun day trips from the Soo that range from epic train rides to thundering waterfalls.

Check out these vacation rentals in Sault Ste. Marie for your stay or any of these hotels.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 7.12 hours (699 km)
Time spent: 1 – 3 nights

Agawa Crafts and the Canadian Carver

One of the most popular stops on a Northern Ontario road trip from Toronto is at Agawa Crafts! An hour north of Sault Ste. Marie, it’s a must stop for a couple of reasons. One reason being is that it’s the last gas station before Wawa, which is 1.5 hours north.

Agawa Crafts originally opened in 1971 and is a beloved stop for road trippers. Located in Batchawana Bay features a mix of home décor, gift ideas, and souvenirs. One of the big highlights is the abundance of Canadian Indigenous crafts, moccasins and more.

Now owned by the Serpent River First Nation, Agawa Crafts offers the perfect place to pick up some food, unique pieces and fun souvenirs to remind you of your road trip.

Please note that it is only open seasonally, from May through October.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 8 hours (774 km)
Time spent: 20 – 25 minutes

Pancake Bay Provincial Park

Nestled between Sault Ste. Marie and Lake Superior Provincial Park is a hidden gem of a park. Pancake Bay Provincial Park is one of the most beautiful places in Northern Ontario!

The park is home to the longest beach on Lake Superior.  I remember the first time I visited thinking it was like I was in the Caribbean! Not only does the beach have near white sand but the waters are turquoise.

For those staying in provincial parks along your Northern Ontario road trip from Toronto, Pancake Bay offers both campsites and yurts.

The Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout is a big draw to this park. It’s named for one of the largest Great Lakes freighters that sunk in its waters.

There are two hiking options available, depending on how much time you have. The Lookout Trail is 14 km long and in full takes between 5 to 7 hours.

However, if you’re short on time you can hike to the lookout and back. This is only 7 km and takes between 2 to 3 hours. It’s a must to see the incredible views over Lake Superior!

Time & Distance from Toronto: 8 hours and 10 minutes (774 km)
Time spent: 2 – 3 hours

Lookouts along the Trans-Canada Highway

The Trans-Canada Highway is no ordinary boring highway. This highway stretches from St. John’s, Newfoundland across Canada’s ten provinces to Victoria, British Columbia. It runs nearly 8,000 km in length.

One of the big highlights of the Trans Canada Highway are the various lookout stops, from lake views to sweeping vistas, and all worth a stop to appreciate.

One such lookout is at the halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway at Chippewa Falls. Not only is this a great stop as it’s the halfway point on the Trans-Canada Highway, but also for the beautiful Chippewa Falls that is right here. Hike along the falls or cross the footbridge to enjoy this gem that once inspired the Group of Seven’s A.Y. Jackson.

For any fan, like myself, of the famous Canadian artists this road trip is chalked full of many awesome Group of Seven locations that inspired so much of their incredible art. There are many info boards set up around the Algoma region. Created to look like easels, each shares information about the places that inspired the art behind their art.

A couple of other must stop scenic lookouts along the Trans Canada Highway are Alona Bay and Agawa Bay.

Lake Superior Provincial Park

It’s one of Ontario’s gems and it will leave you speechless at every turn. Lake Superior Provincial Park covers 155,000 hectares, and is one of Ontario’s largest provincial parks.

FUN FACT: Lake Superior is the world’s largest freshwater lake!

Hugging the eastern shores of the Lake Superior, the park has an epic shoreline of 4,385 km. In the Park you’ll find a wealth of natural beauty, from inland lakes to waterfalls and the Algoma Hills to picturesque stretches of beach.

The Trans-Canada Highway runs right through the Park, giving you stunning views from the road. But if there is one place you must explore it is Lake Superior Provincial Park. While there is so much to do and see, I have a few recommendations for a day well spent in the Park.

One must stop is to see the Agawa Rock Pictographs. This is one of only a few pictograph sites in Ontario that are accessible by foot. There are 35 ancient rock paintings on a large cliff face that’s situated right along the shore of Lake Superior.

The trail out to the pictographs is a short 0.5 km, and takes you over rugged terrain. But it’s all worth it when you reach the rocky shore!

To see the pictographs you must traverse a narrow rock ledge that slopes right into the looming lake. But these historic and slowly fading images are unbelievable!

If you’re not camping in the park during your trip then consider staying at one of the hotels near Wawa.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 8.46 hours (831 km)
Time spent: 1 – 2 nights

Wawa

A road trip through Northwestern Ontario isn’t complete without a stop in Wawa. Here, perched just off the highway soars a giant goose.

Representing the town for over 50 years, the Wawa Goose stands nearly 30 feet tall and has a wingspan of 20 feet. And it’s only fitting that they chose a goose as their mascot, as Wawa in Ojibwa means “Land of the Big Goose”.

Along with the Wawa Goose, the city boats a number of waterfalls. One of the top waterfalls in Wawa is High Falls. This scenic waterfall plunges 75 feet and is 125 feet wide. In addition to enjoying the views from the viewing platform, you can hike a section of the Voyageur Trail. The other is Silver Falls. This gem of a waterfall and located west of the Michipicoten River Village.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 11 hours (918 km)
Time spent: 1 hour

White River

Another fun stop along your Northwestern Ontario road trip is in White River. Here you’ll meet an iconic bear whose origin is from right here in Ontario – Winnie the Pooh!

Just off the highway stands a statue of the adorable bear we all grew up with. But did you know that White River is his birthplace? The bear cub that was named Winnie, short for Winnipeg, by a soldier who purchased it, later went on to live at the London Zoo where it was loved by visitors.

One such visitor, A.A. Milne, went on to write stories about the bear for his son, Christopher Robin. And the rest is Disney history.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 10.46 hours (1008 km)
Time spent: ~ 5 minutes

Other stops to consider: Between White River and Marathon is one of Ontario’s hidden gems, Pukaskwa National Park. This remote park on the shores of Lake Superior is home to epic hiking trails, a suspension bridge, paddling routes, and so much more.

Neys Provincial Park

For epic views stop at Neys Provincial Park. The park is 15 minutes west of Marathon and located on the northern shore of Lake Superior.

Made famous by the Lawren Harris painting Pic Island, the park offers an awesome hiking trail to take in the same view as the painting.

Pic Island Overlook Trail is one of six trails in the park and the longest. At 9 km return, the trail takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

After the climb to the overlook, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Pic Island. If you’re feeling creative, bring a paintbrush and canvas to enjoy a little en plein air painting while channeling your inner Group of Seven.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 11 hours and 50 minutes (1,112 km)
Time spent: 2 – 3 hours

Terrace Bay

While Terrace Bay may be small it’s certainly worth a stop. Just off the highway you’ll see a massive lighthouse and may wonder why it’s here instead of by the water.

This is a replica of the lighthouse you’d see if you turned off the highway to visit downtown Terrace Bay, on the shores of Lake Superior. And from its hilltop location off the highway, it offers sweeping views of the surrounding area and the mighty Lake Superior. All you have to do is climb the stairs to the top.

Another great stop in Terrace Bay is the Aguasabon Gorge, which is also right off the Trans-Canada Highway. A boardwalk trail leads to a lookout over the gorge.

As I approached, I definitely heard it before I saw it, but plunging into the gorge is a gorgeous waterfall. The lookout not only gets you up close to the mist rising off the falls but also an awesome view of Lake Superior in the distance.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 13.56 hours (1175 km)
Time spent: 1 hour

Related Post: Top Places to Experience Ontario Nature

Rainbow Falls Provincial Park

Rainbow Falls Provincial Park is set over two separate locations, 5 km apart. But a stop at the Whitesand Lake location is another great stop on your Northern Ontario road trip.

This part of the park offers three hiking trails. One is the 52 km Casque Isles Trail, which follows the northern shoreline of Lake Superior.

But you only need to hike a tiny portion of this trail, called the Rainbow Falls Trail for an epic waterfall. This boardwalk trail leads you along the river, with various lookout points, and takes you over a bridge spanning the river.

Here you’ll see one the beautiful cascading Rainbow Falls. If you have a little extra time continue along the trail up to an awesome lookout view of Lake Superior.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 12.50 hours (1201km)
Time spent: 1 – 2 hours

Rossport Rest Area

At the Rossport Rest Area you’ll find a scenic spot to get out of the car. Enjoy views of the water and islands from the rocky shoreline.

For Group of Seven fans, this spot inspired Lawren Harris. If you visit on a clear summer day, you’ll understand why.

It’s also home to the Rossport Coastal Trail. This coastal hiking trail runs to Rossport Community Park, along Lake Superior, for 1.5 km.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 12 hours and 50 minutes (1213 km)
Time spent: 5 – 25 minutes

Ouimet Canyon

Forget about heading to the United States folks, we’ve got our very own Grand Canyon. Affectionately dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of the North’, Ouimet Canyon is a remarkable sight.

Located 64 km, one hour, northeast of Thunder Bay is Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park. A one km loop trail takes you to two viewing platforms overlooking the canyon.

The canyon is 500 feet across, 3 km in length, and has over 350 foot vertical cliffs plunging into the delicate canyon floor. Strangely, on the canyon floor rare Arctic flora lives, and this flora is usually found 1,000 km to the north.

The views from the platforms are breathtaking. From the sheer cliffs to the fragile canyon floor and out to Lake Superior in the distance, it’s hard to image this grand canyon is still so unknown.

From one of the platforms you can see a large rock formation that appears to be watching over the canyon. Named ‘Indian Head’, the rock formation has a legend behind it – like so many natural wonders in Northwestern Ontario.

Legend goes that a giant named Omett fell in love with Naomi. After moving a mountain he noticed a part of it fell and killed his love. He desperately hid the body, in fear of her father, Nanabijou. While looking for his daughter, Nanabijou sensed something underground and sent a thunderbolt to split the ground open, creating the canyon. After discovering her there he turned Omett into stone to watch over her grave forever.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 14.20 hours (1333 km)
Time spent: 1 hour

Terry Fox Monument

Just before the turnoff for Thunder Bay’s downtown is the Terry Fox Monument. This is a must stop to pay honour to this incredible Canadian.

For those who don’t know, Terry Fox became a national hero when he set out to run across the country for cancer research back in 1980. At a young age, he lost one of his legs to cancer, making this cross-country journey even more incredible.

He began his Marathon of Hope in St. John’s, Newfoundland, but sadly his journey was cut short near to where his 9 foot tall monument stands today. He died nine months later. Every year after his death a Terry Fox Run has taken place continuing his legacy.

The Terry Fox Monument, located on a hilltop, offers stunning views over Lake Superior, Sleeping Giant, and is truly an awe-inspiring stop on a Northern Ontario road trip.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 14.40 hours (1379 km)
Time spent: 20 minutes

Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is the second largest city in Northern Ontario and is a great place to base yourself for a few days. There is much to do and see in the area and as well as in the city itself. From amazing green spaces to a stunning lakeshore and history at every turn, Thunder Bay will not disappoint. 

Right in the city you’ve got a rich history in its buildings, neighbourhoods, and at the Fort William National Historic Site. I highly recommend taking a wander along its lakeshore. You’ll find through incredible views, thought-provoking art installations, and so much more.

Time & Distance from Toronto: 15 hours (1398 km)
Time spent: 2 – 4 nights

There are a bunch of great places to stay in Thunder Bay, from hotels to campsites. Check out these central hotels for your stay. I recommend the Courthouse Hotel or Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel.

The following are my top picks for must stops just outside of Thunder Bay.

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Located 45 km east of Thunder Bay, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is a must visit for all nature addicts. Set on the Sibley Peninsula that stretches out into Lake Superior, the park is one of most beautiful places in northern Ontario.

The park is home to over 80 kms of trails. Top of the Giant Trail is the top hike in the park! While this trail is not for the faint of heart it will be all worth the pain and sweat in the end.

After seeing one of the viewpoints for the top (there are a bunch) in a photo online a number of years ago I instantly added it to my bucket list. And standing atop the highest cliffs in Ontario will not only leave you breathless but will blow your mind!

There are a variety of great, less intensive, hikes throughout the park leading to beautiful spots like the Sea Lion, Tee Harbor, and Lehitnen’s Bay.

Time spent: 3 – 8 hours

Kakabeka Falls

Thirty minutes outside of Thunder Bay is Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, which is home to one of Ontario’s grandest waterfalls.

Kakabeka Falls is known as the ‘Niagara of the North‘ with its name stemming from an Ojibwa word meaning ‘thundering water‘.

From a boardwalk trail you can walk nearly all the way around the falls, with most spots sharing the mist of this mighty waterfall. At 230 feet across and plunging 130 feet into a gorge carved out of Precambrian Shield, Kakabeka Falls is home to fossils that are 1.6 million years old!

Time spent: 1 hour

7 Day Toronto to Thunder Bay Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Stops: French River Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, overnight in Sudbury

Day 2 Stops: Chutes Provincial Park, Kennebec Falls, optional detour to Elliot Lake Fire Tower, Algoma Mills Scenic Lookout, Blind River, Mississagi River lookout, Bruce Mines, Loonie, overnight in Sault Ste. Marie

Day 3 Stops: Agawa Crafts and the Canadian Carver, Lookouts along the Trans-Canada Highway, Lake Superior Provincial Park, overnight in Wawa

Day 4 Stops: White River, Terrace Bay, Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ouimet Canyon, Terry Fox Monument, overnight in Thunder Bay

Day 5: Hike Sleeping Giant

Day 6: Explore Thunder Bay

Day 7: Return home to Toronto

10 Day Toronto to Thunder Bay Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Stops: French River Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, overnight in Sudbury

Day 2: Explore Sudbury

Day 3 Stops: Chutes Provincial Park, Kennebec Falls, optional detour to Elliot Lake Fire Tower, Algoma Mills Scenic Lookout, Blind River, Mississagi River lookout, Bruce Mines, Loonie, overnight in Sault Ste. Marie

Day 4: Explore Sault Ste. Marie

Day 5 Stops: Agawa Crafts and the Canadian Carver, Pancake Bay Provincial Park, Lookouts along the Trans-Canada Highway, Lake Superior Provincial Park, overnight in Wawa

Day 6 Stops: White River, Terrace Bay, Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ouimet Canyon, Terry Fox Monument, overnight in Thunder Bay

Day 7: Explore Thunder Bay

Day 8: Hike Sleeping Giant

Day 9: Explore Thunder Bay

Day 10: Return home

Best Time for a Road Trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay

In my opinion the best time to plan a road trip to Northern Ontario is in the summer. During June through August the temperature is great for camping and swimming. Plus, everything along the way is open like seasonal parks and businesses. And you won’t have to worry about winter road conditions.

However, I could argue that fall is also a great time to plan your road trip. With all the parks, hiking trails and lookouts, you’ll see some of the best fall colours in Northern Ontario.

Winter road trips can add a different kind of magic. But winters up north are even more unpredictable than in southern Ontario. In addition to dealing with bad road conditions, some roads close leading to disruptions.

Tips for Planning the Ultimate Northern Ontario Road Trip Itinerary

There are countless road trip tips I could give you to help you plan your road trip north. But I’m focusing on a few key tips to help you plan a road trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay that is successful.

Plan Ahead – In Northern Ontario, you’ll find fewer gas stations and other convenient stores. So, make sure to plan ahead. Always ensure you have a full tank of gas. Plan for quick weather changes, especially around Lake Superior. And consider doubling up some supplies, especially if you plan on camping along your road trip.

Be Flexible – There are so many amazing places to visit, endless hiking trails along this route, and other attractions. So, be flexible in your planning and on your road trip. Make note of the must-do things and plan for a little extra time in between for when you stumble upon hidden gems.

Remember You Can Return – I always recommend trying to not cram too much into a travel itinerary. Especially road trips! Because things always pop up like rain, traffic, or even loving a location so much you want to spend more time. So, remember, you can always return.

Be Mindful of Your Waste – Many of the road trip stops mentioned include enjoy the great outdoors. This pristine wilderness is still much untouched by the tourist crowds to the south. So be mindful of your waste and your footprint. Track out all of your garbage, food, and other items. And leave the places you visit better than when you came.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Northern Ontario Road Trip

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