Lake Superior Shores Road Trip Itinerary
The Lake Superior Shores Road Trip is a stunning journey through the beautiful Canadian landscape. Starting in Thunder Bay, the road trip winds its way through the picturesque towns of Terrace Bay and Sault Ste. Marie, ending in Sudbury. This 1002km journey is best enjoyed over a three-day period, allowing for plenty of time to take in the stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding countryside. The best time of year to embark on this adventure is during the summer months, when the days are long and the weather is warm. Along the way, you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery of the lake and its surrounding forests. The road conditions are excellent, making this trip suitable for any driver. It can also be completed on a moderate budget. With its incredible views and many attractions, this road trip is sure to provide an unforgettable experience and create lasting memories.
3
number of days
1,002 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Thunder Bay
Distance 1,002 km
Driving time 11.3 h
Pace: fast
300.5 kWh
Airports
YQT
[detailsContainer]
Thunder Bay is a vibrant city located in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. It is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the West’ and is the perfect starting point for the Lake Superior Shores Road Trip. The city has many attractions to explore, from its picturesque scenery to its rich cultural heritage.
When visiting Thunder Bay, the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is a must-see. It is located just outside the city and offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the boreal forest. The park is full of trails and activities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Thunder Bay also has a vibrant art scene. There are several galleries and museums showcasing the work of local and international artists. The city also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, so there are plenty of ways to experience the local culture.
For those traveling by air, Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) is the closest international airport to the city. It has several car rental companies available, making it easy to get around the city and begin your road trip.
Overall, Thunder Bay is an ideal starting point for the Lake Superior Shores Road Trip. It has plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, art galleries, and festivals. It is also conveniently located near the Thunder Bay International Airport, making it easy to travel to and from the city.
1
Thunder Bay
- Terrace Bay
Distance 215 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
64.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Starting in Thunder Bay, Canada, you'll have the opportunity to explore the local history and take in the breathtaking views as you drive 215km to Terrace Bay. With a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, you'll be able to take your time and stop at the most interesting places along the way.
In Thunder Bay, be sure to check out the Prince Arthur's Landing Waterfront Park and the Thunder Bay Harbour. The park offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant, and the harbour is the perfect spot to watch boats sail in and out.
As you make your way to Terrace Bay, you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Superior and the boreal forest. You'll also have the chance to see historical sites such as the former townsite of Dorion and the Dorion Lookout.
Once you reach Terrace Bay, you can explore the beautiful beaches of Lake Superior Provincial Park, the local art galleries, and the historic lighthouse. You'll also have the opportunity to take a tour of the Agawa Rock Pictographs.
This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Thunder Bay and Terrace Bay!
Terrace Bay - Canada - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
2
Terrace Bay
- Sault Ste. Marie
Distance 479 km
Driving time 5.3 h
Pace: fast
143.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to go on an amazing road trip from Terrace Bay to Sault Ste. Marie? This 479 km drive will take you less than 6 hours to complete and you will find plenty of interesting places to visit along the way.
Start your journey in Terrace Bay, a small town situated on the north shore of Lake Superior. Here, you can explore the beautiful lakefront and the nearby Agawa Canyon, a scenic area with plenty of hiking trails.
Continue your journey to Wawa, a small town known for its large bird statue. Don't forget to take a picture with the famous Canada Goose! Next, make a stop in White River, home to the famous White River Heritage Museum. Here, you can learn about the town's rich history and explore the many artifacts on display.
Further down the road, you will reach the small town of Searchmont. This is a great place to take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Keep driving to Agawa Bay, where you can admire the beauty of Lake Superior and explore the nearby Agawa Rock Pictographs, a collection of ancient rock paintings.
Finally, you will reach your destination of Sault Ste. Marie. Here, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, the Art Gallery of Algoma, and the Ermatinger Old Stone House.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Sault Ste. Marie - Canada - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
3
Sault Ste. Marie
- Sudbury
Distance 308 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
92.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip stage from Sault Ste. Marie to Sudbury! This scenic journey of 308 km will take you less than 4 hours and will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
Start your trip in Sault Ste. Marie and visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, which is the largest aviation museum in Canada. Here you can explore the history of bushplane aviation and take a look at the impressive collection of vintage aircraft. Then, head to the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, a popular tourist attraction that takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Agawa Canyon.
Next, make your way to Sudbury, where you can visit Science North, a science centre and interactive museum. Here you can explore the fascinating world of science, from the environment to space exploration. Then, check out the Big Nickel and Dynamic Earth, two of the city’s most popular attractions.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Sudbury - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
Sudbury
[detailsContainer]
Sudbury, Ontario, Canada is the perfect end to the Lake Superior Shores Road Trip. This vibrant city is located on the Canadian Shield, and is known for its thriving arts scene and outdoor activities.
Sudbury is home to many beautiful attractions, including the Bell Park waterfront. Here visitors can take in stunning views of the lake and its rolling hills, or take a stroll along the boardwalk. The city also has numerous parks and trails, perfect for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
For those looking for a bit of culture, Sudbury has something for everyone. The city is home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theatres, and live music venues. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Jazz Festival and the Harvest Festival.
The city is also home to a number of interesting museums, including the Science North Discovery Centre and the Big Nickel. The Big Nickel is a replica of a 1950s nickel and is a popular tourist attraction.
Those traveling to Sudbury by air can fly into Greater Sudbury Airport, IATA code YSB. The airport is conveniently located just a few kilometres from downtown Sudbury.
At the end of your road trip, you won't want to miss the chance to explore Sudbury and all it has to offer. From its beautiful attractions and vibrant arts scene, to its numerous parks and trails, the city has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay!
Lake Superior Shores Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Thunder Bay
-
End:
Sudbury
-
Distance:
1,002 km
-
Stay:
3 days
-
Getting there:
Thunder Bay Airport (YQT)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Lake Superior Shores Road Trip is an unparalleled Canadian odyssey that stretches approximately 1002 kilometers from Thunder Bay to Sudbury. As you traverse this route, which can be delightfully covered over three days, you'll encounter the majestic Terrace Bay, the historical richness of Sault Ste. Marie, and the vibrant city of Sudbury. Each twist and turn along this Scenic Drive offers panoramic views of the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area, Lake Superior, as well as the surrounding verdant landscapes. This excursion is not just a journey; it's a comprehensive exploration of Canada's pristine wilderness and cultural heritage.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Thunder Bay: Embark on your grand tour at Thunder Bay, where the poignant Terry Fox Monument pays homage to a Canadian hero, and the thundering Kakabeka Falls, known as the `Niagara of the North,` captivates visitors with its natural splendor.
- Terrace Bay: Revel in the awe-inspiring Aguasabon Falls and Gorge, where the water's powerful descent carves through ancient rock formations.
- Sault Ste. Marie: Dive into the area's rich cultural tapestry and visit the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, an engineering marvel that once included the world’s longest lock and the first to operate using electricity.
- Sudbury: Your journey culminates in Sudbury, where you can delve into scientific wonders at Dynamic Earth, home to the Big Nickel, a colossal nine-meter replica of a Canadian nickel that stands as a testament to Sudbury's mining heritage.
Best Time to Go:
Embark on this Road Trip during the summer months to experience the region in its full glory. With the warmest and longest days of the year, summer provides the optimal conditions for sightseeing and engaging in a myriad of outdoor activities along the lake’s shores.
Potential Risks:
The driving conditions along the Lake Superior Shores are typically excellent, but it's important to stay vigilant for wildlife that may enter the Roadways. Additionally, weather in this region can be variable, so it's crucial to stay abreast of local travel advisories, particularly if you're traveling outside the peak summer season.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Undertaking the Lake Superior Shores Road Trip is viable on a moderate budget, with a range of accommodations and dining establishments to suit various preferences.
- Lake Superior, the centerpiece of the Trip, holds enough water to cover the entire landmass of North and South America with one foot of water.
- Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by the plethora of activities available, from hiking along the Lake Superior Provincial Park trails to kayaking in the clear blue waters.
- The region is steeped in indigenous history, with opportunities to learn about the local Ojibwe (also known as Chippewa) culture.
A good choice for:
The Lake Superior Shores Road Trip transcends the typical getaway, offering a tapestry of experiences that blend nature's grandeur with cultural enrichment. As you journey through this relatively uncharted path, prepare to forge unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this Road Trip promises a soul-stirring adventure into the heart of Canada's natural and cultural landscapes.