Our world has become increasingly connected, which, if you grew up without cellphones, the internet, etc., is fascinating! But with all the tech that surrounds us, there’s a desire to disconnect, recharge our human batteries, and the best way to do that is to immerse ourselves in nature.
With a massive wilderness that is unique from east to west, with thousands of lakes and rivers, Northern Ontario is just the place to disconnect and reconnect. Across the four regions—Sunset Country, Superior Country, Algoma Country, and Northeastern Ontario—there is the opportunity to truly detox from our digital lives.
What is a Northern Ontario Digital Detox?
A digital detox is simply taking a break from excessive screen time and the daily tech habits that come with it. Many would say it’s not just helpful, but crucial, for our physical and mental well-being. It’s about finding places and experiences that let you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones, and calm the mind, without relying on screens. We're the experts—we live here!
In Northern Ontario, a digital detox isn’t about what you give up, but what you gain. The mainstays are:
Your Wilderness Sanctuary: Many accommodations are nestled deep within wilderness, on remote lakes, or along rugged coastlines, away from the hustle and bustle you want to leave behind.
Photo credit: Destination Northern Ontario
Immersive Outdoor Experiences: The landscape entertains when the phone is put away. Your days are filled with activity:
Paddling: Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on glassy lakes or winding rivers.
Hiking: Exploring trails that lead to breathtaking lookouts, waterfalls, or serene forest clearings.
Fishing: Experiencing the thrill of the catch on world-class fishing lakes.
Wildlife Viewing: Spotting moose, bears, eagles, and other species in their natural habitat.
Stargazing: Witnessing incredible dark skies free from light pollution.
Photo credit: Sunset Country
Simple Pleasures: Shifting to the basics like the warmth of a campfire, the movement of water, scents of pine, the love of a good book and just genuine convo with your friends or family.
Purposeful Disconnection: In some ways, you aren’t completely cut off. Places to stay offer WiFi or connectivity in some way to guests to make sure they have a connection to home. But the atmosphere is “put away your phone” and immerse yourself in nature.
The Regions: Your Gateways to Unplugging
Each of Northern Ontario's tourism regions offers its own unique flavour for digital detox:
Sunset Country
Sunset Country is an endless network of lakes (over 70,000) and the Boreal Forest. This place is a paradise who love fishing, paddling and camping.
Digital Detox Potential: Fly-in fishing lodges and remote outpost cabins are the hallmark here. Accessible only by float plane, these destinations motivate a digital break, as you’re plunged into the wilderness. Many drive-to lodges provide little connectivity, urging their guests to fish, go boating and enjoy what this region is renowned for: its stunning sunsets.
A Typical Experience: Days spent on the lake, evenings around a campfire, and nights under a canopy of stars.
Enjoy the simple pleasures of a campfire on a sandy beach in Sunset Country. Photo credit: Jay Siemens
Superior Country
Situated on the north shore of Lake Superior, Superior Country boasts dramatic cliffs, vast landscapes and coastal ecosystems.
Digital Detox Potential: The rugged landscape along the Lake Superior coast promotes quiet reflection, appreciation for the lake, provincial parks and unique accommodations.
A Typical Experience: Coastal hiking, sea kayaking on Lake Superior, exploring pebble beaches, and immersing yourself in the untamed beauty of the world's largest freshwater lake.
Top of the Giant Lookout, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Photo credit: Melanie Scott
Algoma Country
Algoma Country is known for its striking landscapes, vibrant autumn colours, and diverse outdoor activities, from rugged highlands to scenic waterfalls.
Digital Detox Potential: Many lodges and cottages are nestled along inland lakes, providing a peaceful backdrop for disconnecting. There are many trails to hike or bike, incredible fishing, and winter draws in skiers and snowshoers.
A Typical Experience: Exploring scenic drives (like the Grand Algoma Tour), hiking to waterfalls, cross-country skiing, or simply unwinding in a lakeside cabin. The focus is on embracing the changing seasons.
Taking a bushplane to a remote lake in Algoma to relax and disconnect. Photo credit: Diana Lee
Northeastern Ontario
Northeastern Ontario offers diversity from vast wilderness to rich Indigenous culture and mining heritage. The region features numerous lakes, rivers, and forests.
Digital Detox Potential: This region offers a wide array of remote camps, fishing lodges, and backcountry opportunities, especially as you venture north. Many accommodations here are designed for those seeking peace and quiet, with limited digital distractions. Provincial parks like Grundy Lake or Killarney are great places to unplug!
A Typical Experience: Canoe trips on quiet waterways, ATVing through rugged terrain, ice fishing in winter, or exploring charming northern towns with a focus on local history and culture.
Photo credit: Destination Northern Ontario
Making Your Digital Detox a Success
Regardless of the region you choose, a successful digital detox involves the following:
Tell people you're unplugging: Let friends, family, and colleagues know you'll be out of touch.
Be prepared: Download what you need beforehand. Bring a book, a journal, or a board game to pass the time.
Embrace the quiet: Allow yourself to be present with the sounds of nature and the people you're with.
Set your own rules: Decide what a digital detox means for you. Is it no screens at all, or just less time on social media?
By choosing to unplug in one of these regions, you’re taking a break from your devices and creating a happier, healthier you!
