Ontario-Northwest Loop

The city of North Bay serves as a great point of origin for a road trip through northwestern Ontario, and when you experience even just a portion of what this city has to offer, you’ll look forward to returning here at the end of your trip. North Bay’s Trout Lake and Lake Nipissing provides you with every possible opportunity to swim or fish, or maybe take a canoe or kayak across the glassy surface of the water. A paved trail runs alongside Lake Nipissing that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride by the water. For those who like to spend even more time on the water, you can always rent a houseboat for the duration of your stay and weigh anchor offshore. In winter months, North Bay gets into the spirit with ice fishing and sledding, or maybe you’d like to zip across the powder on the back of a snowmobile. If so, North Bay is for you.
The drive to your next stop of Renfrew takes you east on Provincial Route 17, through a little more than 160 miles of beautiful northwestern Ontario countryside. Once you get to Renfrew and get set up, you can explore a bit of the area by taking a walk along the Millennium Trail. The Trail is a little over 2 miles and runs through some of the most scenic areas in Renfrew. There are plenty of benches and rest stops along the way, which are ideal for either taking a breather or watching any of the many different species of birds that flock to the area. Renfrew rests at the joining of two rivers, the Bonnechere and the Ottawa, so while you’re here you can charter a whitewater rafting tour and have some stories to take home with you!
Heading west on the PR-60 for a little more than 150 miles takes you into Huntsville, which is another great spot for a get-away-from-it-all vacation. Positioned next to the Muskoka River, Huntsville is surrounded by wilderness and it’s a common occurrence to see wildlife roaming in the town’s streets. The town offers plenty of shops and eateries to give you a break from the forestry, if that’s a concern, but the enveloping beauty has such a relaxing effect on people that this is rarely an issue. The maze of trails, flowing streams, and smooth-surfaced lakes combine to create an idyllic setting that has caused more than one first-time visitor to Huntsville to extend their stay. Outfitters are on hand to set you up with anything you need for a horseback trip through the woods, or gear for the winter when the outdoor activities shift to ice fishing and snowshoeing. No matter what time of year you come to Huntsville, you’re in for a very special time.
The return trip to the origin point of North Bay takes you north via the PR-11 for 79 miles. If there’s anything you missed the first time, this is a great time to catch up. But if time doesn’t permit, there are no worries. The odds are good you’ll be back soon!
Other Area Sponsors in Ontario: Campark Resorts Quinte's Isle Campark Wildwood Golf & RV Resort