North Bay, Ontario: Fill Your Days with Outdoor Adventure
I travelled to North Bay to visit a friend I hadn’t seen in years, giving us the perfect excuse to explore the city together.
After arriving, we headed straight to the North Bay Waterfront, where locals and visitors stroll, cycle and rollerblade along the lakeside promenade. Even in early spring, we enjoyed taking in views across Lake Nipissing before exploring the waterfront, home to seasonal attractions including the Heritage Carousel and Miniature Train. In summer, the Chief Commanda cruise offers another perspective on the lake. Later, we tackled the short but rewarding hike to Duchesnay Falls, where a series of waterfalls tumbles through a dramatic gorge just outside the city. Scenic lookouts invite you to pause and watch the rushing water, while my friend led me to her favourite section, where a metal bridge crosses the river and is a great spot for photos.
We had lunch at The Boat on the waterfront and dinner at Churchill’s. In summer, free concerts at the Kiwanis Bandshell and rides along the Kate Pace Way add even more reasons to linger by the lake.
The next morning, we fuelled up with breakfast at Hoagies Diner before heading to the historic Mattawa River. The Mattawa River, travelled by Indigenous peoples and early explorers, is one of the region’s signature canoe routes. Paddling above and below Talon Chutes is one of Ontario’s most historic paddle routes through Canadian Shield scenery.
Back in North Bay, we hiked the Laurentian Escarpment Trail, where panoramic views stretch across the city and its surrounding lakes. In summer, lush greenery and rocky lookouts reveal sweeping views across the city’s lakes and forests. My friend’s favourite route is the Richardson Ridge Trails, which she has hiked and explored by fat bike.
Next time, my friend already has plans for me to explore Three Towers by mountain bike, Laurier Woods Conservation Area on foot and the historic La Vase Portage in a canoe. She also recommends Shabogesic Beach for stand-up paddleboarding in summer.
North Bay may be known for its lakes and trails, but its multicultural food scene makes it well worth lingering after a day outdoors.
This article was sponsored by North Bay.
