Ontario is home to some hidden gems perfect for adventurous ATV enthusiasts looking for an off-the-beaten-path riding vacation this summer. Deep in the backcountry, places like the Algoma Northern Corridor stretch for hundreds of kilometres, winding through dense boreal forests. The rugged private trails on Mattawa’s Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System (VMUTS) challenge riders with rocky climbs and sweeping descents, while the remote trails in Shining Tree offer solitude, with nothing but lake views and endless sky ahead. The Kapuskasing ATV System is another great ATV vacation choice with hundreds of kilometres of rugged off-road trails while Gowganda’s backcountry terrain delivers a mix of technical riding and breathtaking scenery, with cozy accommodations waiting at day’s end.
Travel with us to learn about all the lesser-known ATV vacation options for adventurous, backcountry riding with minimal crowds and virtually untouched wilderness. Let’s plan our next off-the-beaten-path ATV vacation with some great pitstops I know along the way. Haul those trailers out, folks, and load up those machines as we embark on an off-the-beaten-path ATV vacation like no other.
Better bring a GPS just in case.
Auld Reekie Lodge in Gowganda is the perfect place to start for guided ATV tours through extensive northern Ontario wilderness trails. These tours, led by experienced local guides, navigate marked and unmarked paths, including old logging roads and scenic highlands overlooking pristine lakes. ATV enthusiasts looking for something new and exciting will explore hundreds of miles of trails, encountering diverse terrains and landscapes. These remote trails provide a mix of challenging routes and smooth rides, perfect for explorers seeking untouched wilderness. With miles of unmarked paths, Gowganda’s backcountry trails are a paradise for off-road enthusiasts looking for an ATV vacation.
ATV riders headed to Northeastern Ontario around Mattawa should consider calling Richard Pentiluk, owner of Mattawa ATV Guide Service. Pentiluk’s tour packages cover every conceivable ATV interest, catering to families with little to no experience or equipment, to those who already own their own machines. Mattawa ATV guide service is recommended for those who seek off-the-beaten-path adventure but are not yet acquainted with the magnitude of trails in this region.
Shining Tree is another lesser-known off-grid vacation option located between Gowganda and Gogoma. I spent a week here during a college field camp and must say it truly is paradise! Nearby Tree Bear Camp is a great place to stay for an awesome Shining Tree off-roading adventure this summer. Whether you’re into ATV, UTV, RTV or dirt bikes, Tree Bear offers miles of trails for off-road enthusiasts of all levels. The lodge offers maps to assist riders in planning a short hop to a special swimming spot or long haul for the whole day. For ATV enthusiasts wanting to stay over, Tree Bear covers both food and accommodations catering to your group. Another off-grid ATV resource near Shining Tree is the West Nipissing ATV Club. The club was established to promote safe and responsible ATV riding as well as the development of dedicated and shared trails, and identification of other trails suitable for ATV riding within this region. The club offers great insight into off-grid ATV riding in this region and organizes group rides every summer.
The Kapuskasing ATV Trail System is another group option for those planning an off-grid ATV vacation. Notable routes include the Lumberjack Loop, connecting Kapuskasing, Moonbeam, Val Rita-Harty, and Opasatika, traversing hydro crossing and logging roads. The Sturgeon Falls Trail offers amazing views of the Kapuskasing River and surrounding forests. The Kap ATV system connects to the Northern Corridor, another huge network trail extending to communities like Cochrane and Hearst, offering riders extensive off-the-beaten exploration opportunities.
Another lesser-known ATV vacation choice is Mukwa Adventures, a popular off-roading tour between Espanola and Blind River. Mukwa gives riders a nice mix of rugged and smooth ATV experience, as they cruise Northern Ontario in style with an experienced tour leader. Their signature ATV Half Day Touring Adventure offers visitors a 4-hour guided ATV tour, including your own ATV plus all safety and training equipment. With access to literally thousands of kilometres of trails, Mukwa’s male and female guides are fully trained and waiting for your adventure. They offer half-day tours, full-day tours and even full weekend packages for those wanting a more comprehensive northern Ontario experience.
Regardless of where you are ATV riding this summer, remember safety is always important! Be sure to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times, goggles, gloves, and thick riding gear to protect against impacts. Pack a first-aid kit, GPS, compass, map, and a fully charged cell or SAT phone for emergencies. Carry a tire repair kit, air pump, tow strap, and tools for mechanical issues. Bring extra fuel, water, and a fire starter for survival. A flashlight and whistle help with signalling if stranded.
Enjoy your off-the-beaten pat ATV vacation this summer, be safe and I might just see you on the trails!
