Motorcycle Touring in Kirkland Lake, Ontario: Routes, Stops, and Rider Essentials

Kirkland Lake, Ontario sits at the junction of Highway 11 and Highway 66 in Northeastern Ontario, right at the center of some of the best motorcycle touring roads in Canada. Whether you're planning a multi-day loop around Lake Temiskaming, chasing the curves of the legendary Highway 101 east of town, or riding the wild boreal forest of Quebec, Kirkland Lake delivers reliable fuel stops, rider-friendly accommodations, and easy access to scenic backroads like Highway 672. For motorcyclists touring Northern Ontario, it's a practical home base, and a truly rewarding destination.

The Boreal Loop 250-300km / 1–2 Days

For something a little wilder, head out on Highway 66 past Mount Cheminis, and across the Quebec border into Rouyn-Noranda. Then north to Duparquet—a natural overnight should you choose to stop—west on Route 388, and cross back into Ontario on Highway 101. For the final leg south you can choose either Highway 672, or continue to Black River-Matheson (and a visit with some cute alpacas at Dream Acres) before heading south on Highway 11 back to Kirkland Lake. Riders who've done the Lake Temiskaming Tour will recognize the 66 east leg and Rouyn-Noranda, but where that tour goes south along the lake, this one pushes north into the Quebec interior for a different ride entirely.

Fuel up at every opportunity once you're north of the main corridors. Route 388 is remote and the gaps between stations are real.

Secondary Roads Highways 66 and 672

For riders who'd rather peel off the main drag, the combination of Highway 66 east out of Kirkland Lake and Highway 672 north into Esker Lakes Provincial Park is the kind of back-to-back that could very well be the highlight of your trip.

Where Highway 11 is all open cruise, Highway 66 going east is a sustained, dense run of twisties, with a corner-after-corner rhythm that demands your full attention. Think Tail of the Dragon energy on a northern Ontario backroad, with nobody around to get in the way.

Off 66, Highway 672 north is a different kind of magic. It cuts deep into Esker Lakes Provincial Park and delivers long downhill straightaways, hooking curves, well-kept bridges over fast-moving streams, and scenery that gets more impressive the further in you go. Fuel up before leaving Kirkland Lake, and depending oon the size of your tank, you might want to take a jerry can. And keep your eyes up out here, this is legitimate bear country. If you're stopping for photos, keep someone watching. 

Why Riders Stop in Kirkland Lake

Convenient Services

Kirkland Lake provides fuel, dining, and accommodations directly along major highways, giving riders a chance to rest, refuel, and continue on their route without detours.

Local Culture and History

Visitors can explore the Museum of Northern History at Sir Harry Oakes Chateau or enjoy other attractions, making stops both practical and interesting.

Hub for Scenic Loops

The town serves as a gateway for the Lake Temiskaming Tour, Highway 101 loops, and extended rides along Highway 11 and Highway 66. Each route offers views of lakes, forests, and rolling hills.

Accommodation in Kirkland Lake

Kirkland Lake has more options than you might expect for a northern town, and several properties sit right on the highway corridors.

Ramada by Wyndham Kirkland Lake

Off Highway 66 near downtown, the Ramada Inn by Wyndham remains the best bet for loaded touring bikes with spacious rooms, free parking, and quick highway access. Amenities include Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and pet-friendly options, perfect for riders arriving late or leaving early.

Comfort Inn Kirkland Lake

Located centrally, the hotel provides easy parking, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to major routes, making it simple for riders to rest before continuing loops or long-distance rides. 

Super 8 by Wyndham and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham

Super 8 by Wyndham and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham both sit at 350 Government Road West, giving riders two price points at the same convenient highway location. The Super 8 covers the basics with free buffet breakfast, free parking, pet-friendly rooms with mini-fridge and microwave, an on-site bar and restaurant, and a hot tub. Step up to the Microtel and you get a heated indoor pool, fitness centre, laundry facilities, and suites with kitchenettes for longer stays, making it a good call for multi-day touring bases. Both offer free WiFi and early highway access when it's time to roll.

More Places to Stay Outside of Kirkland Lake

Heading out along Highway 66 toward Larder Lake, Dublin Bay Lodge, Cheminis Lodge, and Muddy Moose Restaurant & Inn all offer roadside stops with lodging, useful if you're doing a multi-day loop and want to break it up rather than backtrack to town.

Fuel, Food, and the Practical Stuff

Gas stations line Highways 11 and 66 through town, so fuelling up is never a detour. For food, you have real options.

The Federal Tavern

A proper Canadian pub with wings, ribs, daily specials, live music, and a patio. 

Dino's Pizzeria

A Kirkland Lake institution since 1970, still family-run, still making pizza from scratch. Order the Dino Special.

The Bridge Restaurant & Bar

A lakefront pub and bar right on Highway 11, known for hand-cut chips, Canadian comfort food, and a patio with a sunset view. 

Why Kirkland Lake is a Great Motorcycle Touring Hub

Kirkland Lake is a practical and enjoyable stop for motorcycle touring. Its location on major highways, access to scenic loops like the Lake Temiskaming Tour and Highway 101, and rider-friendly accommodations like Ramada by Wyndham make it a key hub for touring Northern Ontario. The combination of road convenience, nearby attractions, and authentic small-town character ensures that stopping here adds value to any ride.

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