The Grand Algoma Tour: Outdoorsy Edition
If you’re looking for the ultimate Northern Ontario road trip filled with incredible hikes, appreciating the small-town charm, and the best local eats, the Grand Algoma Tour: Outdoorsy Edition is your perfect next adventure.
This scenic loop takes you from the quiet shores of Lake Huron to the rugged coastlines of Lake Superior, and iconic secondary highways. This loop can be completed in a short 3-4 day agenda or up to over a week. Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of Ontario’s most beautiful road trips.
Day 1:
You’ll want to start your morning off in Bruce Mines, a charming small town filled with history deeply rooted in copper mining. Start your morning at The Copper Bean Café, where they are serving up delicious, strong coffee that pairs perfectly with a hearty breakfast sandwich—exactly the fuel you’ll need for the start of your adventure.
Afterward, take a stroll downtown and browse antique treasures at The Old Bank Antique Market and Copper Town Treasures. Filled with antiques and collectables that have so much character, it’s fun to browse around and find a treasure to take back with you. A visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop at The Bruce Mines Museum. Explore over 7000 artifacts with fascinating history in a Presbyterian Church that was built in 1894.
Continue the Copper Town Tour and drive to the Historic Mine Trail, where you can walk through the town’s mining past.. A one km trail with four sub-trails that should take you approximately two hours.
Hop in the car and head toward Desbarats, just a short drive away. If you’re lucky enough to land on a Saturday, don’t miss the Johnson’s Farmers Market. Filled with a mix of local artisans, baked goods, and fresh produce.
For lunch, head to the vibey restaurant of Ije’s Place & Bakery. Grab a plate (or baked treat), a local gem that feels like a home-cooked hug. Before hitting the road again, make time to hike the Foster Parkland and Walking Trails, a peaceful area to stretch your legs among wetlands, meadows, and birdlife.
On your way to Garden River, stop for that classic roadside photo op with the Echo Bay Loon Dollar Monument, a massive loon statue. For the night, set up camp (tent, trailer, or cozy cabin) at Ojibway Park, nestled along Lake Huron. The big sandy beach is perfect for an evening dip, followed by a campfire under the stars.
Day 2:
Wake up lakeside on the shores of Lake Huron and start your day with the Ojibway Nature Trail. A short but beautiful hike that winds through wetlands and forests and allows you to experience and learn about stories of Ojibwe culture, traditions, and their connection to the land.
Pack up and head to Sault Ste. Marie, and make a stop at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Explore the incredible world of bushplane flying, learn about the pioneers who took to the skies to master the Canadian wilderness, and be inspired by their daring stories. (Source: https://bushplane.com/)
From there, make your way to Goulais River. The neighbour hiking destination to Lake Superior. P.P. Lace up your boots for a hike to the Havilland Bay Lookout, where you’ll hike up a short incline, pass a beautiful waterfall, before summiting the panoramic views over Havilland Bay. If it’s a hot day, cool off with a swim at the beach before rewarding yourself with lunch at McCauley’s Restaurant, a laid-back local favourite serving up hearty fare and local fish!
For the night, you’ve got two fantastic options:
Stay in style at Sunnd Eco Lodge, where off-grid domes sit right on a private lake. Perfect for a kayak paddle, campfire, and stargazing in a wood-fire hot tub.
Or grab a spot and camp at Pancake Bay Provincial Park, famous for its long sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Day 3:
As you start your drive this morning, this is where your road trip turns truly iconic. Fuel up with coffee (and gas because it’s the last stop until Wawa) with a legendary apple fritter at Voyageur’s Lodge before heading to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park for a quick dip or lakeside stroll.
Next up is a hike with history. The Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Trail, where you’ll climb (literally a very steep staircase) to incredible views of Lake Superior and the resting place of the legendary shipwreck.
As you drive along, make sure to take a stop at Chippewa Falls, one of Northern Ontario’s most photographed waterfalls, and the official halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway. From there, continue into Lake Superior Provincial Park and settle into Agawa Bay Campground, where campsites are set up along the shoreline.
Spend your afternoon hiking the Nokomis Trail (breathtaking views over Old Woman Bay) or take a gentler stroll along the Sand River Trails, where a series of cascading waterfalls line your path. Don’t miss the Agawa Rock Pictographs, ancient Ojibwe rock paintings that tell stories of spirits, canoes, and Lake Superior’s power.
Day 4:
Dedicate this day to fully immersing yourself in LSPP’s rugged beauty. If you’re up for a challenge, the Awausee Trail offers a full-day trek with elevation climbs and stunning lookouts over the park. For a slightly shorter option, choose between the Orphan Lake Trail or revisiting recommendations from day three.
After a morning of adventure, cool down with some relaxation at Agawa Bay Beach. Imagine a picnic on the pebble beach, go for a swim, or bring a floaty and enjoy Lake Superior. For the night, stay at Agawa Bay and try to book a beachfront campsite. Relax by the lake, or take a walk down the beach to the far end, where you’ll find a hidden trail that brings you out to an incredible view of the lake. Have a campfire, roast marshmallows or savoury s’mores and soak in all the beauty of this special place.
Day 5:
Start your day by driving to Wawa until you see the signs for Naturally Superior Adventures, where you can book a kayak tour with a guided paddle in advance (recommended). Their trips, ranging from short half-day outings to full-day adventures, offer an exciting adventure on Lake Superior’s stunning shoreline. Lunch is included, allowing you to relax, enjoy the scenery, and hopefully spot wildlife.
In the afternoon, if you choose a half-day paddle, head into town to snap a picture with the iconic Wawa Goose, then take a drive to Scenic High Falls, one of the area’s most impressive waterfalls. As the day winds down, head back to NSA for a quiet evening on the beach, sunset views, and a hearty dinner.
Day 6:
Today’s drive features more northern gems as you head into the boreal forest. On your way toward Chapleau, stop to stretch your legs at Potholes Provincial Park or Shoals Provincial Park. Both are smaller but scenic spots. Once in Chapleau, fuel up with a coffee or lunch at Chapleau Hub – Café & Bar, a cozy converted church that serves as a gathering spot for locals.
The highlight of the day is the drive along Highway 129 to Aubrey Falls. Highway 129 is a stunning drive that truly makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere (in a good way). When you reach Aubrey Falls Provincial Park, you’ll enjoy a short hike that offers breathtaking views of the giant cascading waterfall framed by the rugged Canadian Shield. After taking in the scenery, head to Northern Skies Resort, where you can check into a vintage cabin and paddle out on Chubb Lake to enjoy a fiery northern sunset.
Day 7:
For your final adventure, enjoy your breakfast and coffee at Northern Skies Resort before lacing up your boots for the climb up Rock Candy Mountain, a hidden gem of a trail that rewards hikers with three views.
Afterward, make your way toward Thessalon, with a must-stop at The Roasted Bean for one last Northern Ontario coffee and snack. Owned by the same owner as The Copper Bean in Bruce Mines. If you have time, I highly recommend ending your trip with the Thessalon Coastal Trail, a beautiful hike along Lake Huron’s shoreline that perfectly wraps up your week of outdoor adventure.
Driving The Grand Algoma Tour is a chance to experience some of the best of Algoma Country at your own pace. Endless options depending on your preferences from rugged hikes and waterfalls to cozy small towns and lakeside sunsets, every stop along the way offers something special.
With options for 3 to 7 days (or more), you can make your road trip anyway. Algoma Country truly stands out as a destination with no shortage of hiking, dining, and exploration opportunities for everyone.
