The oldest Provincial Park in the province, Algonquin is an institution. The drive through it is truly great, especially in fall when the colours are at their peak. But slow down and you’ll find some of the best biking and hiking trails in Canada, backcountry and full-amenities camping sites, amazing wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, and so much more. Even if you’re only stopping for a jump in a lake—you’ll be transformed by this vast wilderness.
Dacre Heights is private property but you're welcome to ski, snowshoe, hike, bike, and run all over the hill.
Overlooking Lake Huron, this destination offers visitors more than 10 km of sandy beaches, 10 distinct walking trails, and 14 km of bike trails (or, during winter months, 38 km of groomed ski trails). Those looking for something more high-adventure can also rent canoes, hydro bikes, paddleboards, and more.
About 15 kilometres east of North Bay (as the crow flies) there's a band of large boulders stretching most of the way across a narrow section of the Mattawa river. 10,000 years ago, as ice retreated, these rocks were left exposed. They were known as a location marker for voyageurs and Indigenous travellers along this historic trading route.
To get there from North Bay, start on the SSR711 to connect with the D Trail. Head north till you get to the A1 and follow it until the river narrows. They'll be on your left.
Point of Interest #3 on the Explorers Snow Tour is the old Purdy Mica Mine. Bring a flashlight and leave your helmet on—it can get pretty slippery in the winter. You’ll find it on the A112A OFSC snowmobile trail. It’s very well signed as it lies on the boundary between the North Bay Snowmobile Club and the Mattawa and Area Snowmobile Club. It’s also located on private property, so practice proper trail etiquette—pack out what you pack in.
Located at the northerly end of the Golden Springs Trail surrounded by a mature Boreal Forest. It features a variety of highland and lowland areas, beautiful lakes, interesting bogs and a wealth of different plants, trees, birds, and animals.
The stark beauty of High Falls on the Grassy River will take your breath away. This pristine area appeals too many in search of natural beauty, amazing sights and sounds, or to connect with ancient history.
The Schreiber Superior Picnic table is located at Schreiber Beach. After your picnic, enjoy a short hike along a portion of the Casque Isles Trail to the Parks Canada Red Chairs. Directions: Turn right out of the Golden Rail parking area onto the highway, and make an immediate right onto Winnipeg St. At the end of the street, turn right onto Scotia St. and left on Subway St. Follow the signs to the beach, turning right after going under the railway bridge, about 2 km.
Lloyd’s Lookout is located in Red Rock on the Nipigon River Recreation Trail. The lookout is found 0.8 miles (1.3 km) in from the Red Rock trailhead of the Nipigon River Recreation Trail. The viewing platform offers incredible views above the Nipigon River out to Lake Superior. A few minutes further into the trail there are a couple of Parks Canada Red Chairs to relax in and soak in the view.
The Red Rock Superior Picnic table is located on the breakwater wall at the Red Rock Marina, overlooking Nipigon Bay on Lake Superior. Directions: Turn into the marina at the Red Rock Marina sign. Park at the Interpretive Centre, and follow the path to the right to the end of the break wall.