Ride the North Shore: 2-Day Motorcycle Adventure Along Lake Superior
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Ride Lake Superior: A 2-Day Motorcycle Adventure from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay.
If you're seeking a motorcycle adventure that combines stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and exhilarating roads, the north shore of Lake Superior offers it all. This two-day ride from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay is filled with natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and delicious pit stops, readily accessible in your riding boots and gear.
Day 1: Sault Ste. Marie to Terrace Bay
Approx. 480 km
Start in Sault Ste. Marie
Your journey begins in Sault Ste. Marie, where the mighty St. Marys River links Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Before hitting the throttle, walk around the historic Soo Locks, an engineering marvel. While downtown, check out the city’s 19 outdoor murals, a vibrant blend of global and local artistry that adds colour to every corner.
Where to Stay (or Start the Night Before):
Catalina Motel – A biker-friendly spot with easy bike-to-door parking.
One of the 19 outdoor murals to discover in Sault Ste Marie.
Chippewa Falls Rest Area
The first stop opportunity along Highway 17 is at Chippewa Falls, located at a rest area where the Trans-Canada Highway was officially opened. The falls are easily visible from the roadside, making a great quick stop for photos and a stretch.
Chippewa Falls rest area along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Batchawana Bay Provincial Park
Cruise north along Highway 17 to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park, a serene spot with wide sandy beaches and calm, clear waters. This is the perfect place to stretch your legs, breathe in that Superior air, and snap epic shots.
Along Highway 17 to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a perfect rest stop.
Grab a Fritter at the Voyageur’s Cookhouse
A little further up the road, make a mandatory stop at the Voyageur’s Cookhouse. This legendary roadside eatery is known for its fresh apple fritters, perfect for a mid-morning treat. This is also a good opportunity to top up the gas tank.
Pro tip: Get there early. They often sell out!
The legendary apple fritter at Voyageur’s Cookhouse.
Agawa Bay Scenic Lookout
Pull over at the Agawa Bay Scenic Lookout as you traverse Lake Superior Provincial Park. This elevated rest area offers stunning views over the vast lake and rugged shoreline. It’s one of the best photo ops on the route and a good place to take in the scale of Superior.
The Agawa Bay Scenic Lookout is a must-stop.
Old Woman Bay
One of the most dramatic stops along the route, Old Woman Bay, is a crescent-shaped beach backed by towering cliffs. The view is unforgettable, and if you look closely, you’ll spot the rock formation that gives the bay its name, a profile resembling an old woman’s face.
One of the most stunning stops along the route is Old Woman Bay.
Scenic High Falls
Just south of Wawa, take a short detour to Scenic High Falls, a beautiful cascade on the Magpie River. The falls are easily accessible and offer a quiet, relaxing place to take photos. It’s also a great stop to cool off in the mist. The road is gravel and can sometimes be corrugated. Also, approaching the falls, you will ride downhill, which means gravel uphill on the way out.
You can take a short detour to Scenic High Falls.
Explore Wawa’s Famous Landmarks
A ride up the North Shore wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Wawa to snap a pic with the giant Wawa Goose.
While in Wawa, you can explore the nearby beaches or visit Young’s General Store for classic road trip snacks. Stretch your legs with a stroll along Dr. Rose’s Beach on the shore of Wawa Lake. Along the Lion's Beachfront Heritage Walk, you will discover a fascinating display of the town’s historic past as a center for mining iron ore.
North Onatrio's favourite attraction is the Wawa Goose.
Winnie the Pooh statue
For a touch of nostalgia, swing through White River to visit the Winnie the Pooh statue, honouring the real bear cub that inspired A.A. Milne’s beloved character. The statue is just meters off the highway.
White River Ontario, home to Winnie the Pooh.
Overnight in Terrace Bay
End the day in Terrace Bay, where adventure meets small-town charm.
Stay: Drifters Motel – Cozy, motorcycle-friendly, with parking right outside your room.
Eat: On-site restaurant at Drifters or try local favourites in town.
Drink: Slate Island Brewing Company – Raise a pint of craft beer to celebrate your ride.
Optional: Ride down to Terrace Bay Beach to catch the sunset over Superior.
Terrace Bay is a perfect overnight stop along the north shore of Lake Superior.
Day 2: Terrace Bay to Thunder Bay
Approx. 300 km
Aguasabon Falls and Gorge
Start the morning with a potent dose of nature. Just minutes from Terrace Bay, Aguasabon Falls plunges 30 meters into a dramatic gorge. It’s a short walk from the parking area—ideal for a quick stop in your moto boots.
The easily accessible Aguasabon Falls.
Cross the Nipigon Bridge & Stop at the Lookout
As you head west, you’ll cross the Nipigon Bridge, Canada’s longest cable-stayed bridge. Follow the signs to the Nipigon Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the Nipigon River and surrounding forests.
The Nipigon Lookout Tower provides a panoramic view of the Nipigon River.
Ouimet Canyon Detour
Take a short but scenic detour to Ouimet Canyon, where sheer cliffs drop over 100 meters into a gorge supporting a rare Arctic-alpine ecosystem. The easy trails and viewing platforms make it a highlight of the trip.
It’s a fun, short ride to the Ouimet Canyon.
Terry Fox Monument
Approaching Thunder Bay, pause at the Terry Fox Monument, dedicated to one of Canada’s most inspiring figures. The site overlooks Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant, and it’s a great spot for reflection and photos.
The Terry Fox Monument is a must-stop along Lake Superior.
Kakabeka Falls
Known as the Niagara of the North, Kakabeka Falls is a must-see. The 40-meter falls crash dramatically into a gorge below, and boardwalks offer superb viewpoints just steps from the parking lot.
Kakabeka Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of the North, is a must-see.
Finish in Thunder Bay
You made it! Wrap up your journey in Thunder Bay, where modern comfort meets northern hospitality.
Stay: Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay is located right on the waterfront, with secure parking and scenic views.
Dine: Choose from various restaurants downtown. Whether you're craving fine dining, wood-fired pizza, or a hearty burger, you’ll find something to satisfy your craving.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay is perfect for relaxing after a fantastic road trip.
Motorcycling along the north shore of Lake Superior is an unforgettable ride filled with rugged beauty, iconic landmarks, and the joy of the open road. This route delivers something at every turn, from quiet beaches and roaring waterfalls to hidden gems and small-town hospitality.
So, gear up, ride safe, and let the North Shore take your breath away. This is one motorcycle trip you’ll be talking about for years to come.
