Lake Superior’s shoreline offers some of the most memorable cycling in Northern Ontario. These routes were created by riders who know the roads and trails well, with choices that work for both beginners and those looking for a tougher challenge. Each ride highlights a different part of the Ontario section of Lake Superior, from quiet beaches to sweeping lookouts, and includes stretches of the Trans Canada and Great Lakes Waterfront Trails.
Although the Canadian side of the Lake Superior Circle Tour can be ridden in full, many people prefer a drive-and-ride approach for safety and flexibility. Some of the routes do follow parts of the Trans-Canada Highway where shoulders can narrow, so it helps to stay alert. No matter which trip you choose, these six cycling tours bring big views, local character, and plenty of reasons to pause along the way.
The first cycling route on this list is also the longest. Sault Ste. Marie to Chippewa Falls is a 67 km (108 miles) one-way adventure where you'll witness landscapes that inspired the Group of Seven. Making the 4 to 6 hours on your bike well worth it.
It starts at Clergue Park on the Sault waterfront, where you can wander a sculpture garden, watch the St. Mary's River, and maybe fuel up at Ernie’s Coffee Shop before rolling out. The first big test comes right away in a 4 km climb out of the city. A handy excuse to pause is Velorution Bike Shop, partway up the hill, where you can catch your breath and maybe grab a fresh cup of locally roasted coffee.
From there, the ride shifts onto Highway 17, mixing long paved shoulders with quieter stretches. It’s not all grind; there are breaks worth taking, like Heyden for a convenience stop. Further north, the route hugs Superior for the first time at Havilland Bay, where the beach and causeway make a natural stop. Harmony Beach is just beyond, offering another sweep of sand before you press on.
Chippewa Falls is the payoff, rushing over rocks in a spot that inspired the Group of Seven. It’s also the halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway, which feels fitting for a journey like this. At 67 km one way, the ride is a serious day out, but it’s also easy to stretch into a two-day “weekender.” However you ride it, the mix of tough climbs, shoreline views, and waterfall finale makes this one a memorable route on Superior.
The Wawa Lake Lollipop Loop is an entirely paved 7 km (4.3 miles) route, like a scenic stroll on two wheels. It's a lollipop tour that offers a different route through the town on the loop back. Beginning at the beautiful Dr. Rose's Beach and Boardwalk, ride 1 km (0.6 miles) along Lake Wawa to the Lion's Beachfront. Here you'll find an incredible lookout over the lake as well as the Mine Driller Memorial dedicated to local mining history.
Continue through town to the Wawa Goose and Tourist Information Centre. Take in the views, stop for a break, and get a picture with the iconic 28.5-foot-tall goose before it's time to head back. Along Mission Road, through downtown Wawa, there are plenty of opportunities to stop at local favorite spots like the Young's General Store or stop for a bite at the Viking Restaurant.
Your ride concludes where it began at the beach, but your exploration doesn't have to end there. You can take a seat, cool off in the lake, or leisurely walk the 300-meter (984 ft) boardwalk to fully appreciate the surroundings.
Pebble Beach to Penn Lake is a 7.1 km (4.4 miles) loop where you get to experience Marathon's two iconic beaches. Beginning at Pebble Beach, take in the Lake Superior views before setting off. You will soon encounter a tunnel underneath a local railway. You will need to dismount to navigate safely. After that, the trail winds up towards Penn Lake.
Penn Lake has a beautiful sandy beach, picnic area, playground, and a 2 km (1.7 mile) hiking trail. Take the opportunity to dismount and hike around the lake and soak in the scenic surroundings. You may notice whimsical decorations nestled along the forest floor, making up the charming "Fairy Trail."
You will then continue the loop back to Pebble Beach. Along this section, you will pass through Marathon's business area. Stop in at Marathon Centre Mall and browse or get a snack. Once you return to Pebble Beach, you're going to want to explore. The path down to the beach can be found at the east end of the parking lot, where you can walk the shoreline Lagoon Trail. Use caution navigating along the round-stoned beach.
The Terrace Bay Lighthouse Run is a shorter 4.7 km (2.9 mile) route, but it’ll still get your heart rate up. You start right at Terrace Bay Beach, all Lake Superior waves and sand, then the road heads uphill fast. It’s paved, sure, but one side is a grind. At the top, though, the lighthouse lookout at Simcoe Plaza is waiting. That view, plus the chance to grab a coffee or a pint, makes the climb feel worth it.
The way back down is obviously a lot more fun, coasting with the lake air in your face. If you’ve got extra energy, you can tack on a walk to Aguasabon Falls or just wander the beach and rest at the Parks Canada Red Chairs and take in the lake views.
If you haven't had your cycling or Lake Superior beaches fix yet, the Terrace Bay to Schreiber Beach route is a 38.7 km (24 miles) there-and-back ride. Beginning at the Terrace Beach, return back up to Highway 17. Riding along the paved shoulder, you will notice that the width varies at times. There are a number of challenging hills along the 13 kms (one way) of highway. Once you reach Schreiber, exit the highway onto Ontario Street. Once you hit Scotia Street, you will find Breeze Bakery, where you can grab a coffee and a homemade snack.
Continue down the Schreiber Beach, with the power and majesty of Lake Superior bounded by lofty hills. It's a perfect spot for a swim and a short walk along sections of the Casque Isles Trail. You may want to stop for a lunch break at Filane's or the Voy Cafe. You may even opt to stop for the night at the Voy before continuing back to Terrace Bay. Either way, be sure to stop at the Schreiber Railway Museum before leaving town.
On the way back, just before getting into Terrace Bay, you will take Aguasabon Gorge Road to a spectacular waterfall. Drop the bike, wander the platform path, let the roar wash over you. Back at the lighthouse lookout, you can wrap it with a brew from Slate Island Brewing.
The 23 km (14.2 miles) one-way Nipigon to Red Rock Heritage Ride ties together two of Lake Superior’s northernmost communities with a mix of climbs, shoreline views, and plenty of character along the way. It kicks off at the Nipigon Marina, where the river opens wide and feels calm enough to stall you before you even get going. The first stretch climbs a bit through town, where you will pass the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area Visitor Centre, Paddle to the Sea Park, and the Nipigon Museum. The Bridgeview Lookout Tower makes a good break if you want a higher view, and the Nipigon River Suspension Bridge is a highlight. You’ll want to stop on the wide path just to stare down at the water.
From there, it’s a steady roll west on Highway 11/17 toward Red Rock. The grade keeps pulling for the first few kilometres, rarely steep but enough to remind you you’re riding one of Ontario’s main arteries. The payoff comes when the road drops and eases toward Red Rock. Hidden off the highway, the town feels tucked away.
Once you reach town, you’ve got choices. Grab something to eat at Melly B's in the Recreation Centre, check out the Red Rock Marina Interpretive Centre, or meander along the marina boardwalk. You can either pedal back the way you came or trade your bike shoes for hiking boots and return on the rugged 10 km (6.2 miles) Nipigon River Recreation Trail. Either way, the mix of river, forest, and Superior shoreline gives this ride a distinct rhythm: challenging, scenic, and rewarding all at once.
