Five Northern Ontario Spring Shakedown Motorcycle Rides from the U.S.

Northern Ontario is built for serious riders. Long sweepers, tight corners, and rugged pavement roll through boreal forest, shield country, and past glassy lakes. And for U.S. riders, it’s all right across the border. Whether you’re crossing at Sault Ste. Marie, Fort Frances, or Rainy River, these five spring rides will get your wheels turning fast. Spring riding in the north is about sorting out your setup, scouting your gear, and making sure your bike and body are dialed before the long-haul tours begin. So here’s a few quick spring rides to get your blood pumping. Each includes bookable accommodations, touring shops, local mechanics, and a few hidden gems to make your trip smoother.

Ride #1: Ride Along the Lake Superior Coastline –Terrace Bay to Nipigon

Why Ride Here:  
This short but striking ride clings to the edge of Lake Superior, with open sweeps, steep drop-offs, and massive northern skies. It’s a scenic stretch that’s big on views but easy on time—perfect for a half-day shakedown or sunset cruise.

Where to stay and what to do:  
Start in Terrace Bay with a visit to the lighthouse viewpoint or Aguasabon Falls. Along the way, stop at Schreiber Beach for a peaceful breather. In Nipigon, Paddle-to-the-Sea Park and the iconic bridge over the Nipigon River make for great photo ops. Stay the night at the Timberwolf Inn or Beaver Motel and refuel at local favourites like Ducky’s Diner or Edgeview Restaurant.

Ride #2: Temiskaming Circle Tour Spring Ride – North Bay to Ville-Marie

Why Ride Here: This inter-provincial loop around Lake Temiskaming is a low-key spring favourite: open views, great roads, and solid stops.

Where to stay and what to do: North Bay is home base, where North Bay Cycle & Sports and Leisure Cycle can help tune your ride. Fuel up at Twiggs Coffee Roasters before heading north. Waterfront Inn in New Liskeard offers lakefront views, and Bison du Nord near Earlton is a great lunch stop with a twist—you can book a farm tour or grab smoked meat for the road. Loop into Quebec through Ville-Marie and use the Temiskaming Circle Tour map to build your route.

Ride #3: The Algoma Twisties – Thessalon to Wawa via Hwy 129 & 101

Why Ride Here: Want Ontario’s answer to the Tail of the Dragon? Hwy 129 has tight curves, no traffic, and rugged northern scenery.

Where to stay and what to do: Start in Sault Ste Marie, cruise down to Thessalon, then head north on 129, connect to 101 west to Wawa. Fuel and food require a bit of strategy—Bruce Bay Cottages in Bruce Mines is a good overnight base, and you can stock up at the Little Rapids General Store in Thessalon. For service, check out Bud Robinson Motorsports in Sault Ste. Marie. Algoma Country has full route guides and updates on fuel stops.

Ride #4: Quetico and the Boreal – Fort Frances to Atikokan 

Why Ride Here: This trip delivers on peace and quiet: boreal forest, winding backroads, and lakes around every turn.

Where to stay and what to do: Come in through Minnesota and start in Fort Frances, where La Place Rendez-Vous offers lakeside stays with bike parking. Badiuk Powersports and RPM Powersports can handle repairs or gear. In Atikokan, book a stay or a backcountry add-on through Canoe Canada Outfitters, or just ride the shorelines of Quetico Provincial Park. More info via Atikokan Economic Development.

Ride #5: Sunset Country Long Ride – Kenora to Dryden and Sioux Narrows

Why Ride Here: Follow Hwy 71 and 17 through classic shield country: huge lakes, big skies, and clean pavement.

Where to stay and what to do: Start in Kenora—Kenora Powersports has a solid shop, and Nature’s Inn Kenora offers a reliable overnight. Mosswood Adventures in Sioux Narrows rents boats and paddleboards if you want to stretch your legs. Further east, the Hide Away Inn in Dryden is a rider-friendly stay. Sunset Country has suggested routes and local event listings.

Bonus Ideas:

• Need a trailer for the trip? Check out Action Trailers in Strathroy for enclosed haulers
• Find regional events and route tips at Ride the North

Get Rolling On Your Northern Ontario Spring Ride

Tight corners, long mileage, and real northern adventure start just a few hours from home. Border crossings are easy, and every stop above is ready for international travellers. Fuel up, tune your ride, and start the season strong. Still planning your summer loop? Get maps, route builders, and more at Ride the North.

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