If you live for long, uninterrupted miles of perfectly groomed trails, then Northern Ontario, Canada is where you need to be. While riders in the south spend half the winter refreshing weather apps and hoping for snow, we’re already out here racking up kilometres. And if you’re looking for a loop that delivers serious adventure with top-tier riding conditions and pristine OFSC trails, look no further than the Gateway to the North Loop.
This 215-kilometre loop is everything you love about snowmobiling: big miles, wide-open trails, and scenery that will make you stop just to take it all in. The route winds through Northeastern Ontario’s snowbelt—connecting Cochrane, Smooth Rock Falls, and Timmins—a lineup of sled-friendly towns that are built for snowmobiling.
The best part? You don’t have to gamble on snow conditions. Northern Ontario’s longer and more reliable season means you can plan your trip with confidence, instead of waiting to see if Southern Ontario gets a snowfall that actually sticks.
Two years ago, Northeastern Ontario went through an extensive process to vet the snowmobile loops in their area, and the Gateway to the North rose to the top, with the businesses, hotels, and clubs all agreeing to abide by a set of criteria to ensure that anyone riding here got the best experience possible in Ontario. And it shows.
This loop is designed for sledders who love to rack up the miles. Long stretches of smooth, fast trails let you open up the throttle while winding sections through boreal forests keep things interesting. You’ll ride through landscapes straight out of a winter postcard—frozen rivers, towering trees, and remote stretches that remind you why you got into this sport in the first place. And you can connect to thousands of kilometres of amazing trails in almost any direction.
Each of the five staging communities along the route has everything you need: fuel, food, lodging, and—of course—locals who know exactly why you’re here. These towns thrive on snowmobile tourism and make it easy to gear up, warm up, and get back out on the trails.
Start your trip in Ontario’s Snowmobiling Capital—Cochrane. This town is built around sledding, with top-notch staging areas, direct trail access, and plenty of places to grab a hot meal before hitting the trail.
A perfect place to fuel up and grab a bite, Smooth Rock Falls is a classic Northern Ontario snowmobile town. It’s small but mighty, offering all the essentials without slowing you down.
With great accommodations and a strong snowmobiling culture, Timmins is a must-stop along the loop. If you have time, swing into town to check out the local shops and restaurants—you won’t be disappointed.
Here’s the deal: if you want to ride without stress, Northern Ontario is where you need to be. The Gateway to the North Loop is proof that when it comes to snowmobiling, heading north is always the best call. Reliable snow, epic trails, and sled-friendly towns that welcome riders with open arms—what more do you need?
So, grab your crew, book your stay, and get ready for one of the best rides of the season. The trails are calling!
Duration: 1 Day, 211 km
Highlights: Greenwater Provincial Park, hydro corridors
District: OFSC District 15
Trails: TOP A, TOP C trail; A106C; L103; TOP A
Ontario law requires a snowmobile entering an OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trail to display a valid Ontario Snowmobile Trail Permit.
