4 Northern Ontario Motorcycle Routes

If you're looking for your next motorcycle trip, Northern Ontario offers some of the most unforgettable riding routes there are with winding roads, stunning landscapes and friendly communities along the way. Whether you're Riding the Giant, soaking in Lake Superior, discovering remarkable scenic lookouts and waterfalls or riding the scenic Nor'wester loop, these four rides showcase the best of the north on two wheels.

Ride the Giant Motorcycle Route

Distance: 175 km (109 mi)

This route begins with a fantastic view of Lake Superior with the Sleeping Giant in the distance at the Thunder Bay Marina. It the perfect place to soak in the view of where your ride will be taking you. From there, you will ride out of the city and onto Highway 11/17. A stop at the Terry Fox monument located above the highway offers your second view of the Sleeping Giant and where you can see the 9 foot tall bronze statue that commemorates Terry Fox and his cross-country Marathon of Hope. 

Continuing on, take a right off Highway 11 onto Highway 587, the Sibley Peninsula. Riders love this portion of the route for its winding road and lush wilderness through the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. You can opt for stops at the Thunder Bay Lookout where you can get a perspective of Thunder Bay where your ride started, and a stop at the Sea Lion, a 500 metre trail that leads to this unique rock formation. Otherwise, continue down to Silver Islet and stop at the historic Silver Islet General Store to enjoy a bite to eat and a coffee while soaking in the views of the lake and learning about the mining history.

Waterfall and Scenic Lookouts Motorcycle Tour

Distance: 115 km (71 miles)

This ride takes you to the most scenic lookouts around Thunder Bay and the largest waterfall in Northern Ontario. Starting at the top of Mount McKay in Fort William First Nations, where you can ride right up to the top. A small entry fee is required that goes toward maintaining the grounds. Mount Mckay overlooks the community below, Thunder Bay, Lake Superior, and the Sleeping Giant. From there, you can opt to stop at Chippewa Park, which has sandy beaches, incredible lake views, an amusement park, and several interpretive panels. 

When leaving Fort William First Nations, you will cross the 530-foot-long Kaministiquia River Swing Bridge. Riding west of Thunder Bay you will come to the community of Kakabeka Falls, home to the iconic waterfall often referred to as the "Niagra of the North." It is over 40 metres high and is the second largest in the province.

Nor’Wester Motorcycle Route

Distance: 614 km (381 miles)

This route is a loop through picturesque rural landscapes dotted with lakes and forests from Thunder Bay to Kenora. It offers the perfect mix of winding roads and the rugged beauty of Northwestern Ontario. From Thunder Bay, consider stopping at Kakabeka Falls along the way before continuing west to Ignace. This town has many lakes, rivers, and forested areas. From Ignace, you will come upon Dryden, where you can stop and see Max the Moose, an 18-foot-tall statue, and stretch your legs. Another quirky roadside attraction can be found in Vermillion Bay; here you'll see a towering statue of Big Foot. Kenora is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake of the Woods, and the roadside attractions just don't stop. Right along the shores, you'll meet the 40-foot-tall Husky the Muskie. 

Continue on Highway 17 and head south on Highway 71; you will arrive at Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls. The Nestor Falls Scenic Lookout is a must-see! Riding on to Fort Frances then head east on Highway 11 to Atikokan. Atikokan is known as the gateway to Quetico and is surrounded by stunning Ontario wilderness. A great place to stop and stretch is Little Falls Scenic Lookout. Your ride concludes back in the City of Thunder Bay.

Top of Superior Motorcycle Route

Distance: 593 km (368 mi)

For riders that crave the thrill of the open road coupled with breathtaking scenery, this route is like no other. Starting right in the heart of Thunder Bay at Hillcrest Park, one of the best views of the Sleeping Giant. You can opt to head to Kakabeka Falls on this trip then include the Ride the Giant route. From Silver Islet, your next stop will Dorion's Canyon Country, where you can stop at Ouimet and/or Eagle Canyon. From Dorion, this route has a suggested overnight stop in Red Rock. Accommodations include the historic and stately log cabin Lodge At Red Rock or the Red Rock Inn.

Day 2 includes a stop at the Bridgeview Lookout Tower in Nipigon then back on the road to Schreiber Beach to soak in Lake Superior from a set of Parks Canada Red Chairs. Terrace Bay has a few quick stops and must-sees. Aguasabon Falls and Gorge, the Terrace Bay Lighthouse, and the Terrace Bay Beach are all places you don't want to miss. This ride is all about appreciating the beauty of Lake Superior, and in Marathon you'll find one of the most unique shores to see it from. Pebble Beach is covered in round, smooth stones and open waters with a seemingly endless horizon. Continue east on Highway 11/17 and onto Highway 614 to the Manitouwadge sign. This roadside attraction is a great place for a photo op with your bike and the ATV and Skidoo there. Conclude your ride in Manitouwadge at the large inland lake and beautiful beach.

No matter which route you take, you will be sure to have the ride of your life! With smooth highways, panoramic lookouts, and plenty of hidden gems along the way, these four routes are a must for any rider looking to explore the wild beauty of Northern Ontario on two wheels.

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