Cross Canada Road Trip: Ontario
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- 1 day ago
- 16 min read
Wow, we've made it! After covering the long stretches of British Columbia, the breathtaking beauty of Alberta, the quiet plains of Saskatchewan, and the heart of Canada in Manitoba, we've finally crossed into Ontario. If you haven't yet, you can catch up on my journey through the links below, and get a feel for what this adventure is all about:
The journey has been incredible, and as I hit the halfway point and head east, I'm excited to share my experience of exploring Ontario. This article is a culmination of multiple solo road trips I've taken across Canada, four of which have been coast-to-coast journeys in my campervan, Wanda, as well as several shorter, regional trips.
I encourage you to consider your time when planning your own itinerary carefully. Canada is a vast country, and it would be impossible to enjoy a cross-country road trip in less than six weeks -- even then, that would involve a lot of daily driving and not nearly enough time for exploring.
This province, often referred to as the heart of Canada, is a land of rich history, diverse geography, and bustling culture. Its history is woven with the stories of numerous Indigenous nations and the arrival of European settlers. This history is still visible in the landscapes, names, and communities of today. Geographically, it's a province of contrasts, from the rugged Canadian Shield in the north to the fertile farmlands and dense urban centres of the south. The climate varies just as widely, with long, cold winters and humid summers, while its economy is a powerhouse fueled by manufacturing, finance, and natural resources.
The long drive across Ontario is often considered the most challenging part of a cross-Canada road trip. In this article, I’ve designed three distinct routes, each offering a unique experience for different travel styles. As you read, you'll find links to other articles on my blog that dive deeper into specific locations. I encourage you to click through and explore, as you can mix and match these stops to create a precise itinerary suited to your own travel style. More links will be added as I create blog articles on other stops later this fall.
Table of Contents
Three Cross Canada Road Trip Routes Through Ontario
Navigating a province as vast and diverse as Ontario can be a journey in itself. To help you plan your own perfect trip, I’ve broken down my journey into three distinct routes, each catering to a different type of traveller. First, there's the TransCanada Highway Route (blue), which is the most direct and fastest option for those who need to cover ground quickly. This path follows the northern TransCanada highway around Lake Superior, offering a great balance of efficiency and stunning northern landscapes.
For those with more time to spare and want to explore the city of Toronto, the Scenic Southern Route (yellow) provides an alternate path that takes you away from the main highway to explore some of the province's hidden gems. This route branches off to visit the serene Manitoulin Island and the breathtaking Bruce Peninsula before leading you to the provincial capital of Toronto.
Finally, for the most in-depth exploration, the Niagara Explorations Route (purple) is a side trip from Toronto. This is for the traveller who wants to truly slow down and immerse themselves in the rich history and beautiful wine country of the Niagara Region and see the world famous Niagara Falls. While each route is designed with a specific travel style in mind, they are meant to be a guide, not a rulebook. Feel free to mix and match stops from any of the routes to create your own unique adventure.
The TransCanada Highway Route: The Quickest Way East
This route is the perfect choice if you're on a tighter schedule. This route takes approximately 21 hours of driving. It's also a route that showcases some incredible natural beauty and important cultural sites. Following this route by-passes Toronto and goes around Lake Superior, Algonquin Park, and then on to Canada's capital city of Ottawa.
Be aware that the northern stretches along this route include long stretches between communities and cell phone coverage is inconsistent. Make sure to download any maps and driving instructions before setting off for the day. Keep an eye on your fuel levels, as this also means long stretches between fuel stations.
For Nature Lovers
Much of Ontario is part of the geographical region known as the Canadian Shield which is characterized by a rocky landscape with thousands of lakes. From the beautiful Tunnel Island Trail in Kenora (the first community encountered after crossing into Ontario) to the spectacular beauty of the Great Lakes and into Algonquin Park, you'll have many opportunities to hike, paddle, swim, climb, fish, and spot wildlife. Your challenge will be deciding which to choose!
In Kenora, check out the Tunnel Island Trail which includes an easy loop trail through the forest with stunning views of the Winnipeg River and the Norman Dam.
Kakabeka Falls is often called the "Niagara of the North," this must-see waterfall is just a 30-minute drive west of Thunder Bay, right off the highway. The viewing platforms and boardwalks are easily accessed and offer spectacular views of the falls and the gorge carved by the Kaministiquia River. The park offers several hiking trails, including the Mountain Portage Trail, which follows a historic portage route with views of the falls and the river.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is located about 75 km east of Thunder Bay, and is known as a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The park is named for the distinctive landform that, when viewed from Thunder Bay, resembles a giant lying on his back. You can hike over 100 km of trails. A favourite trail of mine is the Sea Lion trail that leads to the Sea Lion arch formation. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, including over 200 species of birds. Check out my detailed post about this area for more information.
The section of highway between Wawa and Sault Ste Marie includes many places to stop along the way, whether for a hike, beach time, or to stretch your legs. Check out my post about travelling Wawa to the Soo for several worthwhile stops along this section. I highly recommend stopping to enjoy a hike at Agawa Bay to see the petroglyphs. The trail is short but challenging in sections, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring along some hiking poles.
Another worthwhile stop along this section is Chippewa Falls, about 55 km north of Sault Ste. Marie. It's a perfect rest stop with a series of cascading falls that are easily accessible from the highway. The sound of the rushing water is a welcome break from the road. The short trail allows you to get closer to the falls for a better view and maybe even a chance to enjoy a swim.
Algonquin Provincial Park is known for its vast wilderness with thousands of lakes, forests, and rivers that are home to diverse wildlife. Algonquin is a popular destination for canoeing, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Even if you don't have time to explore the wilderness of the park, it is worth your time to enjoy a visit to the Visitor Centre, Logging Museum, and Art Centre.
History, Culture & Charming Towns
As the first major town you'll encounter in Ontario, Kenora has a fascinating history tied to the fur trade and a border dispute with Manitoba. Be sure to visit The Kenora Discovery Centre, right beside Lake of The Woods. While you're in Kenora, look for the iconic "Husky the Muskie" sculpture, a well-known local landmark.
Kenora will also be your first introduction to one of Ontario's iconic road side "chip trucks". These food trucks are common all over Ontario, and are known to provide a simple menu of delicious and reasonably-priced road trip meals.
As you drive through Wawa, you can't miss the famous Wawa Goose Monument located at the Visitor Centre on Highway 101 overlooking the Trans-Canada Highway. This oversized statue is one of the most photographed in North America and marks the completion of this rugged stretch of the highway.
Known as "The Soo," Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest settlements in North America. Its history as a major transportation hub is on full display at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, which once housed the world's longest lock. The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is another must-see, offering a unique look into the history of bush flying and its role in connecting Canada's remote northern regions. You can also explore Whitefish Island, a historically significant gathering place for the Anishinaabe people.
Like many of the larger cities and towns along this stretch of the TransCanada Highway, Thunder Bay is a rather ugly industrial city surrounded by stunning natural beauty due to its location on Lake Superior and proximity to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, but it's also a city with significant history, including the Fort William Historical Park.
Just outside the city, I recommend stopping at the Terry Fox Memorial. Terry Fox is a Canadian legend who lost a leg to cancer. He began his "Marathon of Hope" in St. John's Newfoundland in 1980, with a goal to run across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. Unfortunately, his cancer returned during the run and he was forced to end his journey near Thunder Bay. Forty-five years later, every September Canadians continue to participate in Terry Fox runs to raise money in his honour. The memorial is located in a peaceful park setting with incredible views across the water to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
A unique experience is a visit to one of the amethyst mines located east of the city. Not only will visitors learn a lot about amethysts and the mining operations but can also pick up some amethysts to carry home! I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at the Amethyst Mine Panorama and came away with a bucket of crystals. Read about that visit, here.
Sudbury is another industrial city that greets visitors with towering industrial chimneys belching steam and smoke into the air but is worth a stop. While many stop to see the iconic Big Nickel, which is the world's largest coin, this city offers much more. This 30-foot tall monument is part of Dynamic Earth, a unique science museum that takes you on a guided tour underground to learn about Sudbury's extensive mining history. Across town, Science North is the second-largest science centre in Canada, with a hands-on approach to learning about everything from space to local wildlife, making it a great stop for all ages.
Ottawa, the nation's capital, is a city steeped in history. Visit Parliament Hill to admire the House of Commons, Senate, Supreme Court and Central Bank of Canada buildings. Take a stroll through Major's Hill Park on your way to the Rideau Canal Historic Site where you can watch boats work their way through the Ottawa Locks on the Rideau Canal. Take a boat tour along the Ottawa River. Don't miss the Byward Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in Canada, a bustling hub of vendors, restaurants, and shops that has been at the heart of the city's culture for over two centuries.
Two of my favourite museums are located in the city: The National Art Gallery and the Canadian War Museum. Both require at least 2-3 hours to explore and should not be missed.
If possible, plan to be in Ottawa on July 1st - Canada Day. Make your way to The Flats for the official ceremonies in the morning, stick around for the concerts and stay for the spectacular fireworks display once darkness falls. Throughout the day, there are many activities, concerts, and displays around the city. Many of the streets are shut down to vehicle traffic so plan on taking public transportation into the city and doing a lot of walking.
Scenic Drives & Photo Opportunities
Nipigon Lookout (Nipigon)
As you cross the Nipigon River Bridge on Highway 11/17, you’ll find the Bridgeview Lookout. A 40-foot-high viewing tower offers a stunning 360-degree view of Lake Helen, the Nipigon River, and the iconic cable-stayed bridge itself. The location is an engineering marvel, perfect for wide-angle photos.
Wawa Visitor Centre
Mentioned earlier, this is where visitors can stop to admire the famous Wawa Goose. The statue itself is a great photo op, but the vantage point also provides a spectacular view of the surrounding northern forest and hills, especially during the fall. My favourite photos here are the Gitchi Gummie (git-chee goo-mee) poles. Gitchi Gummi is the Ojibwe name for Lake Superior and the personified spirit of the lake.
Group of Seven Viewpoints refers to the locations in Ontario that inspired the Canadian art collective, including areas like Algonquin Park, Georgian Bay, and the Algoma region. Look for easels depicting famous works with descriptions and stories of the artwork and artist. You can find a list of all the sites at the Group of Seven Touring Route website.
The Scenic Southern Route: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
If you're not in a hurry and want to experience a different side of Ontario, this route is for you. It branches off the TransCanada at Espanola and takes you south to explore some of the most beautiful spots in the province, eventually looping back to Toronto. This is the path for those who want a true "off-the-beaten-path" adventure. This southern detour is for the traveller who wants to linger a little longer, uncover hidden gems, and experience the cultural and natural heart of Southern Ontario. Trading in the long, straight stretches of the northern highway for the winding backroads to Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula will reward you with stunning coastal vistas, charming small towns, and unique adventures you won't find anywhere else. It’s the route for creating those lasting, personal memories that make a road trip truly unforgettable. This route requires at least 28 hours of driving time.
For Nature Lovers
Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island, with unique geology, rich Indigenous culture, and a slow, relaxing pace. Once on the island, a must-do hike is the Cup and Saucer Trail, a challenging trail that takes you to the highest point on the island, with dramatic 70-meter cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views. Another essential stop is Bridal Veil Falls in the charming village of Kagawong, where you can walk behind the curtain of water or even swim in the pool at the base of the falls. To carry on to the Bruce Peninsula visitors can take the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry to Tobermory, which operates from late spring to late fall, or return through Sudbury to take Highway 400 along Georgian Bay and through the town of Parry Sound to drive north along the Peninsula.
I wrote about the incredible Bruce Peninsula in my post, Exploring the Beauty of the Bruce Peninsula. It's a hub for hiking, kayaking, and natural wonders. Divers will want to visit the Five Fathoms National Marine Park in Tobermory to dive amongst shipwrecks.
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Flower Pot Island
Just off the coast of Tobermory, this small island is home to unique rock formations, as I shared in my post on Flower Pot Island. You can take a scenic boat tour from Tobermory to see the famous "flowerpot" rock pillars and explore the island's hiking trails.
History, Culture & Charming Towns
Manitoulin Island is rich with Indigenous and settler history. The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation in M’Chigeeng is a must-visit, dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the language, culture, and traditions of the Anishinaabe people of Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island).
The Old Mill Heritage Centre in Kagawong tells the story of the island's industrial past, while the Assiginack Museum in Manitowaning offers a glimpse into early pioneer life.
Tobermory, located at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, is a charming and historically significant harbor town. Its history is deeply tied to fishing and the maritime industry. The Big Tub Lighthouse, built in 1885, stands as a beacon to the region's seafaring past, and taking a glass-bottom boat tour allows you to see some of the 22 shipwrecks that lie at the bottom of Fathom Five National Marine Park. The town itself has a relaxed, port-side vibe, perfect for strolling, shopping, and grabbing a bite to eat.
Blue Mountain is a ski resort on the Bruce Peninsula that offers year-round activities. In the summer, visitors can hike, play golf, hang out at the beach, zipline, do some wall-climbing or enjoy a spa experience.
Toronto is Canada's largest city with enough activities to keep any visitor busy for weeks of exploration. There is plenty of history, beautiful walking paths and neighbourhood parks, world-class dining and shopping, incredible museums, and a hugely diverse population.
A great place to start your exploration is Fort York National Historic Site, the birthplace of modern Toronto. This site, with its collection of original War of 1812 buildings, is an immersive experience into the city's dramatic military history, including the Battle of York.
From there, you can explore some of the city's world-class museums, such as the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), which is Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history. You'll find everything from dinosaur skeletons to Egyptian mummies and special exhibits that rotate throughout the year. For art lovers, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) boasts a stunning collection of Canadian and European masterworks. For an interesting look at fashion through the years, the Bata Shoe Museum can't be beat.
Beyond the museums, Toronto is a city of distinct and vibrant neighbourhoods. The Distillery Historic District is a pedestrian-only area that preserves Victorian industrial architecture with cobblestone streets and converted warehouses, now filled with art galleries, unique boutiques, and great restaurants. For a more bohemian and multicultural experience, head to Kensington Market, a designated National Historic Site with a mix of vintage shops, international eateries, and vibrant street art.
Toronto's multicultural identity is best seen in its ethnic neighbourhoods, which are cultural destinations in themselves. Walk through Chinatown on Spadina Avenue, or visit Little Italy on College Street for its charming cafes and lively atmosphere. The St. Lawrence Market, which has been a public market for over 200 years, is a foodie's paradise, offering everything from local produce to a world-famous peameal bacon sandwich.
Other must-see historical attractions include Casa Loma, a magnificent Gothic Revival castle built in 1914, complete with secret passages, lavish rooms, and beautiful gardens. If you're a sports fan, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a national treasure, a comprehensive museum dedicated to Canada's favourite sport.
Niagara Explorations Route: Wine Country and Waterfalls
While the TransCanada route gets you across the country the quickest, and the Scenic Southern route provides a beautiful alternative, the Niagara Explorations Route is a fantastic side trip from Toronto that's all about slowing down and savouring the journey. This detour takes you on a beautiful loop around the western end of Lake Ontario, itaking you into a world of lush vineyards, rich history, and the awe-inspiring power of nature. It's the perfect way to unwind after the long miles of a cross-country drive, offering a change of pace that’s both relaxing and deeply rewarding. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or a traveller who appreciates an incredibly scenic drive, this route is one you won't want to miss. You'll need to add at least 5 more hours of driving time to your itinerary to explore this area before returning to the TransCanada Highway to continue east.
For Nature Lovers
Niagara Falls: Of course, the falls themselves are the ultimate natural spectacle, but there’s more to explore here than just the main viewing platforms. You can get up close and personal with the raw power of the water by taking the White Water Walk, on a boardwalk beside the Class 6 rapids of the Niagara River. For a different perspective, hike down into the gorge at the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, where rugged trails wind through a pristine Carolinian forest.
For more ideas, check out my post on Things to Do Around Niagara Falls.
Beyond the vineyards, the Niagara wine region offers a wonderful mix of nature and recreation. You can cycle the 56 km paved Niagara River Recreational Trail, that runs from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Fort Erie, offering stunning views of the river, the falls, and the surrounding escarpment. The trail is mostly flat, making it a perfect leisurely ride. For a more challenging hike, explore the many side trails of the famous Bruce Trail that traverse the Niagara Escarpment here.
For a more tranquil and curated nature experience, spend an afternoon at the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. Admission is free, and you can stroll through 99 acres of beautifully maintained gardens. Inside, the Butterfly Conservatory over 2,000 free-flying butterflies flutter among lush plants and waterfalls.
History, Culture & Charming Towns
Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is a charming and beautifully preserved 19th-century town, and a key stop for history and culture lovers. Be sure to explore Fort George National Historic Site, a meticulously restored British garrison that played a central role in the War of 1812. For a more modern cultural experience, the town is home to the world-renowned Shaw Festival Theatre, a professional theatre company dedicated to the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. Check out more details about Niagara On The Lake in this post.
A big attraction in NOTL is the wine route, featuring more than 50 wineries. Visitors can join a tour (and leave the worries about tasting and driving to someone else), rent a bicycle, or choose a designated driver to visit multiple wineries. Many of the wineries also feature incredible food menus, prepared by top chefs and designed to feature their specific wines.
The nearby village of Queenston is a place of profound historical importance. You can climb to the top of Brock's Monument at Queenston Heights National Historic Site, which honors Sir Isaac Brock, a key figure in the War of 1812 who was killed in the battle fought here. The view from the top is a spectacular panoramic vista of the surrounding parklands and the Niagara River.
Nearby, you can also visit the Laura Secord Homestead, a beautifully restored home that tells the story of Laura Secord's heroic 32-kilometre journey through enemy territory to warn the British of an impending American attack.
For more ideas on things to do on a day trip to Queenston, check out this post.
Other Side Trips Worth Considering
If you have even more time to explore, here are a couple of additional articles that you might find helpful for planning a side trip:
For those who love the arts, a detour to the charming Victorian town of Stratford is a must. Stratford is internationally renowned for its Stratford Festival, North America's largest classical repertory theatre. You can catch a world-class production, stroll through the beautiful town and its riverside park, and enjoy some of the local shops and unique architecture. It's a perfect cultural escape. Check out more details in my post, Stratford, Ontario.
Located on the shores of Georgian Bay, Parry Sound is the perfect side trip for travelers who want to dive deeper into the natural beauty of the region. Known as the gateway to the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, this area inspired the famous Group of Seven artists. You can hike the Rotary and Algonquin Regiment Waterfront Fitness Trail, take a cruise to explore the 30,000 Islands, or simply find a quiet spot to admire the rugged scenery that has captivated artists and adventurers for generations. For more information, click on this link for my post on Parry Sound.
Final Thoughts
This fifth installment of the cross-Canada road trip series has been a journey through Ontario’s incredible diversity, from the rugged northern wilds of the TransCanada Highway to the charming towns and rich culture of the southern routes. I hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the endless possibilities this province holds and inspired you to plan your own perfect Ontario adventure. As my journey continues, next week's article will take us into the vibrant, bilingual province of Quebec, where we'll explore its unique history, culture, and scenic landscapes.
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