A week-long journey from Thunder Bay to Toronto showcases the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario. This 1,400-kilometre (870-mile) route through boreal forests, dramatic canyons, and historic towns offers an immersive experience. While barely scratching the surface of what the region holds, it’s an ideal starting point for exploration.
Days 1 & 2: Thunder Bay – Gateway to Lake Superior
Begin in Thunder Bay, Northern Ontario’s second-largest city. Explore the waterfront, a hub for local activity and views of Lake Superior. Visit the Terry Fox National Historic Monument, marking the end of his 1980 Marathon of Hope.
For outdoor adventure, head to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, an hour east. Hike to summit the park’s iconic rock formation or enjoy panoramic views from Thunder Bay Lookout. Alternatively, dig for amethysts at the Diamond Willow Amethyst Mine or zipline through the forest canopy at Eagle Canyon Adventures.
Lodging: Delta Hotels Thunder Bay offers waterfront convenience.
Day 3: Thunder Bay to Wawa – Scenic Highway 17
The drive to Wawa follows one of Ontario’s most spectacular routes. Stop at Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park for a boardwalk view into a 100-metre (330-foot) deep gorge. Further east, Nipigon’s Bridgeview Lookout Tower provides a commanding view of the Nipigon River and surrounding terrain.
Near Terrace Bay, choose between Aguasabon Falls, a powerful roadside cascade, or the Terrace Bay Lighthouse for lake and wildlife views. Finish in Wawa, checking out the famous Wawa Goose statue before settling in.
Lodging: Stay in Wawa or at Rock Island Lodge, a scenic peninsula retreat.
Day 4: Wawa to Sault Ste. Marie – Parks and History
The shorter drive to Sault Ste. Marie allows ample time for exploration. Lake Superior Provincial Park boasts rocky shores, beach access, and trails. Pancake Bay Provincial Park offers a long sandy beach and clear waters, while Batchewana Bay Provincial Park provides picnic spots and local treats at Voyageurs’ Lodge & Cookhouse.
In Sault Ste. Marie, visit the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site to watch boats navigate the locks. Explore regional art at the Art Gallery of Algoma or aviation history at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre.
Lodging: The Water Tower Inn provides comfortable accommodation.
Day 5: Sault Ste. Marie to Sudbury – Mining and Nature
The shift from lakeshore to forested areas marks the drive to Sudbury. Explore Science North, an interactive museum focused on science, nature, and technology. Alternatively, discover the region’s mining heritage at Dynamic Earth and the Big Nickel.
Relax with a walk along the Bell Park boardwalk near downtown. Choose from comfortable hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn or wilderness lodges for the night.
Day 6: Sudbury – Trails and Parks
Slow down and enjoy Sudbury’s surroundings. Explore the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, a nature escape with well-marked trails. For a longer excursion, Killarney Provincial Park, 1.5 hours away, features sapphire lakes, white quartzite ridges, and over 30 kilometres (18 miles) of trails.
Lodging: Killarney Mountain Lodge offers rustic refinement near the park.
Day 7: Sudbury to Toronto – The Final Stretch
The last leg is roughly five hours. Consider a stop at French River Provincial Park for riverside trails or Muskoka Lakes for a bite. Arriving in Toronto, contrast the wild north with the city’s landmarks: the CN Tower, Sankofa Square, the Distillery District, or Kensington Market.
This road trip provides a glimpse into Northern Ontario’s diverse landscapes. The region’s vastness invites further exploration, offering endless opportunities for adventure.
