Escape to Adventure in 2025: Sudbury's Top 5 Day Trips for Every Interest

Sudbury has a little bit of everything—natural beauty, cool history, and some pretty iconic landmarks. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re just passing through, there’s no shortage of fun day trips just a short drive away. If you’re looking to mix things up in 2025, here are five great adventuring spots within an hour’s drive of Sudbury.

1. Talon and Bark Falconry

Distance from Sudbury: 20 kilometres northwest (about a 20 to 25-minute drive)

Looking for a one-of-a-kind day trip from Sudbury? Just 20 minutes away in Chelmsford, Talon and Bark Falconry offers an unforgettable chance to get up close with birds of prey. Walk through the forest with a hawk flying to your glove, or get face-to-face with an owl—their hands-on experiences are as educational as they are awe-inspiring! Their popular programs (like the One Hour Falconry Experience, Natural Hawk Walk, and Owl Experience) are perfect for families, couples, or anyone curious about these amazing animals. They also offer off-site visits for schools and events. Open seasonally from April to November, all visits must be booked in advance. If you're looking to connect with nature in a totally unique way, this little gem just outside Sudbury is well worth the trip.

2. Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre (NORMHC)

Distance from Sudbury: Approximately 35 km north (about a 30-minute drive)

Located in the town of Capreol, NORMHC offers a deep dive into the region's rich railroading history. The museum features an impressive collection of locomotives, rail cars, and artifacts that tell the story of Northern Ontario's railway heritage. Visitors can explore the historic superintendent's house, the Prescott Park outdoor exhibits, and the Heritage Centre housed in the former Capreol fire hall. Interactive displays, like a model railroad layout and a train simulator provide fun and engaging experiences for all ages.

3. Wagonwheel Ranch

Distance from Sudbury: 20 kilometres north (about a 20-minute drive)

The Wagonwheel Ranch is a great escape for anyone looking for outdoor fun near Sudbury! Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a day of family-friendly activities, this ranch offers something special year-round. Explore forest trails on horseback, enjoy pony rides, visit the petting farm, and find surprises along the way. The ranch offers several seasonal events, including wagon rides through scenic trails, bonfire stops with hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting, new animals (like ducklings in the spring), and pumpkin picking for kids. Winter visitors are in for a treat—you can bundle up and head out on a maple taffy trail ride through the snowy forest. The horseback rides are incredibly popular, so be sure to call at least two hours ahead to reserve your spot.

The ranch is open seven days a week, but activities vary by season—so check their website for the latest updates. 

4. A.Y. Jackson Lookout at Onaping Falls

Distance from Sudbury: Approximately 40 km northwest (about a 30-minute drive)

Named after the renowned Group of Seven artist, the A.Y. Jackson Lookout provides a captivating view of Onaping Falls, where the Onaping River cascades nearly 150 feet into the Sudbury Basin. This iconic site is not only visually lovely, but it's also a geological marvel, showcasing evidence of a 1.85-billion-year-old meteorite impact. Visitors can explore several hiking trails, including a path leading to a pedestrian bridge that offers an up-close view of the falls. The area is also equipped with picnic facilities, making it ideal for a leisurely outdoor meal or snack afterward. 

5. Halfway Lake Provincial Park

Distance from Sudbury: 80 kilometres north (about 1 hour’s drive)

Just north of Sudbury along Highway 144, Halfway Lake Provincial Park is a perfect day trip for anyone craving a quick escape into nature. This family-friendly park is set where dense boreal forests meet sparkling blue lakes—and there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Visitors can hit the trails for a short hike or head out on a canoe for the day, soak up the stunning views, spot wildlife like moose or bald eagles, and even catch sight of a heron rookery along the Two Narrows Canoe Route. The campground is geared for families, with two sandy, buoyed beaches and amazing swimming. There’s also a well-stocked Park Store, Natural Heritage Education programs for the curious, and some fascinating glacial landforms to check out around Two Narrows Lake. If you’re looking to stay a little longer, the park also offers top-notch backcountry camping.

Plan Your Sudbury Daytrip Today

The Sudbury area offers a plethora of day trip options that cater to all kinds of interests, whether you like getting out for a hike, delving into some history or learning about a variety of amazing animals up close. Plan your visit and uncover more of the gems that make Sudbury such a remarkable place to explore. 

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