All About Northern Ontario

Know Before You Go

Northern Ontario is a vast region made up of vibrant cities surrounded by pristine Canadian wilderness ripe for exploring. With more than 250,000 lakes and rivers to paddle, wildlife to photograph, and thousands of trails to traverse, it's safe to say you could spend a lifetime here discovering everything we have to offer. It's also safe to say that all this exploring will require a sturdy pair of shoes. 

Whether you've visited us dozens of times or you're planning your very first trip, there's lots to learn about travelling to Northern Ontario. What to pack? How do I get there? What to expect at the border? And most importantly, what are the best things to see and discover once I'm there?

Not to worry. We're here to help you out. We're a friendly people, after all. Read on to learn everything there is to know about travelling to Northern Ontario. We can't wait to see you. 

Recommended Articles

How to Book a Campsite in Ontario

Need to book a campsite and not sure where to start? We got you.

The Ultimate Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights 2026

47 tips, tricks, and itineraries to help you see aurora borealis and plan your Northern Lights adventure.

Exploring Northern Ontario: Four Distinct Regions of Adventure and Natural Beauty

From rugged wilderness to vibrant urban centers, each region offers unique and exciting experiences for every type of traveller.

Best Crown Land Camping Sites in Northern Ontario

Ontario’s best campsites aren’t all booked—discover Crown land & backcountry camping in Northern Ontario, with tips on where to go and what to pack.

Crossing the Border into Northern Ontario by Car? Read this.

A complete guide to crossing with confidence

Ontario’s Staycation Tax Credit Makes Local Travel Pay

Ontarians are able to claim up to $200 per individual and $400 per family on local hotel, cabin, and lodge stays this year!

Start Your Summer Early: Plan a Spring Getaway in Northern Ontario

Migrating birds, baby wildlife, and incredible fishing—from mid-May to late June, experience Northern Ontario at its most magical (and most overlooked).

6 Dark Sky Preserves in Ontario

Go here to see meteors, the International Space Station, Northern Lights, and the Milky Way.

Top 10 Things To Do in Northern Ontario

Pictographs, Niagara of the North, the famous Cup and Saucer Trail, and more!

Travel Safe, See You Soon

Heading north this summer? Follow these tips to stay safe.

Hooked on Ontario: Your Ultimate Fishing License Guide

How and when to get your license so you can get out on the water.

How to Keep That Campfire Vibe Alive in a Fire Ban

Cook, stay cozy, and enjoy camp vibes in Northern Ontario using safe, approved propane options and lighting hacks.

Where Are the Rest Stops in Northern Ontario? A Guide to Major Highways

How Do I Get to Northern Ontario?

A complete list of airlines, border crossings, trains, and ferries.

Where to See Group of Seven Landscapes in Ontario

See for yourself the inspiration behind members’ works of art.

Why a "Holistay" in Northern Ontario Might Be the Most Important Trip You Take This Year

Craving more than just a getaway? Try a Northern Ontario holistay—restorative travel rooted in nature, culture, and feeling better close to home.

What Can I Bring Into Northern Ontario?

From fresh fruit to firearms, here's what you can and can’t bring into Canada.

Plan your Northern Ontario Road Trip

Check out these useful tips before you hit the road!

What do I pack for a trip to Northern Ontario?

41 essential things to bring according to our complete packing checklist

Master the Art of Building a Campfire: Your Complete Guide

Essential tips, best practices, and fire safety advice for creating the perfect campfire in the great outdoors.