Check Out My Favourite ATV Spot in Ontario, Canada

Northern Ontario, Canada is a paradise for ATV enthusiasts, offering vast, untouched wilderness with an expansive trail system and spectacular terrain. From dense old-growth forests to rugged hills and pristine lakeshores, the region’s natural beauty is custom-made for an unforgettable riding experience.

Riders can explore remote areas, enjoy the peace of nature, and spot copious wildlife along the way. The region also offers various ATV-friendly lodges, ensuring accommodations and services for those wanting comfort as well. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, challenging trails, and an abundance of outdoor activities makes Northern Ontario a premier destination for ATV enthusiasts like me. What is my absolute favourite spot in this amazing region, you ask?

Join me to find out as I tour the wily north on my trusty ATV. I'm on a quest to find nature’s perfect place to ATV—and this spot I safely call my favourite of all!

Gateway to the North

Mattawa is my absolute favourite ATV spot in all of Ontario and, as you will see, there are good reasons it is so near and dear to my heart. Nestled at the confluence of the Mattawa and mighty Ottawa Rivers, this region offers incredible outdoor ATV opportunities right at your doorstep. Known as the “Gateway to the North,” Mattawa is surrounded by lush forests, scenic landscapes and ATV trails aplenty including the world-class Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System (VMUTS). Its historical significance as a vital trade route adds charm, with characters like Big Joe Mufferaw— a legendary logger in Canadian folklore, known for his giant stature and role as a riverboat navigator in the 1800s. As the gateway to the north, Mattawa has everything an ATV rider could want—well-managed trails, scenic beauty and accommodations tailor-made for a great ride!

Sentimental Side

When I first started riding ATVs in the early 1990s at our moose hunt camp just a few miles from Mattawa, I felt like the world was my oyster in this beautiful region. There was something in the air, a real sense of adventure and freedom! I ATVed here every year during the spring trout season and fall moose season, forging lasting memories along the way.  I recall thinking, as we toured the trails around Mattawa, that with this trusty ATV a new world of opportunity had just opened—and man I was right! Here we are four decades later, and I still enjoy riding ATVs in the Mattawa area.

Friendly ATV Lodge #1: Mattawa River Resort

These days, the famous Mattawa River Resort is my favourite spot to stay while ATVing in this region and there are a couple of reasons for that. First off, this lodge has easy access to the famous VMUTS, a favourite among ATV riders—it's an immense off-road network dedicated to ATV enthusiasts. Lodging at Mattawa River Resort includes well-appointed and custom-built four-season cottages that sleep up to 12 people and, as the lodge’s Director of Marketing Dave Schiff used to say, “Lodging options are never written in stone.” They customize meal/lodging requirements based on your needs. This is the kind of personal service you come to expect at Mattawa River Resort. After a long day on the A-1 Trail system, give your body a break and enjoy a tasty meal at the resort’s Cardinal restaurant. The onsite chef prepares menu options from scratch and their spacious dining room will accommodate large groups of famished ATV enthusiasts.

Mattawa Guided ATV Tour

ATV enthusiasts new to this region might consider an organized, guided tour for your first visit, and I know just the guy! Richard Pentiluk, Owner of Mattawa ATV Guide Service in Mattawa is perhaps the most knowledgeable rider in all of Ontario’s Gateway country. Richards’s tour packages cover every ATV interest level, catering to families with little to no experience or equipment, to those enthusiasts like me who already own an ATV or two. Mattawa ATV guide service is recommended for anyone not yet acquainted with the magnitude of the trails in this region.

Friendly ATV Lodge #2: Mattawa Adventure Camp

Another lodge located in my favourite spot to ATV is the Mattawa Adventure Camp.  This lodge currently offers a special all-inclusive package just for ATVers that includes lodging with a Jacuzzi tub, satellite TV and wireless internet, a delicious home-cooked breakfast, a three-course dinner, and use of the ATV Cleaning Station. 

Rate per person/day: $140.00. 
Rate per person for two days: $135.00/day plus tax
Rate per person for three or more days: $130.00/day plus tax

Mattawa Adventure Camp is just one more reason why this area is my favourite for ATVing!

ATV Regulations

ATV riders always be aware of the provincial requirements when off-roading. Your machine must also have low-pressure bearing tires, be registered, display a rear license plate and all riders must possess liability insurance under an Ontario motor vehicle policy.  All ATVs need to also meet the motor vehicle safety standards prescribed for off-road use in the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and be equipped with an appropriate service brake and brake light.

Fav Spot Final Tips

When ATV riding on unfamiliar trails such as those around Mattawa, if you’re new to the area, familiarize yourself with the terrain, check weather conditions, and ride within your skill level. On the VMUTS, stay on marked trails, avoid riding alone, and carry a map, first aid kit, and emergency supplies. Mattawa is my personal favourite ATV spot and may soon be yours. See you all on the trails!

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