Motorcycle Touring Ontario: The Most Scenic Roads Every Rider Needs to Ride
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From Lake Superior’s shoreline to Algonquin’s forested curves, these roads define Ontario riding.
If you ride, Ontario is packed with roads that make you grin from your helmet. From the raw shoreline vibes of Lake Superior to twisty northern forest routes and the postcard-perfect lakes and lookouts through Algonquin, these roads offer spectacular blue-sky riding, long sweepers, and spots to stop, stretch, and snap photos you’ll want to hang in your garage.
Below are five of my favourite Ontario tar ribbons, with practical notes included so you can plan a proper day (or multi-day) ride.
My favourite view in Ontario is approaching Old Woman Bay from the west along Highway 17.
Highway 17 — Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa
The stretch of Highway 17 along Lake Superior between the Soo and Wawa offers a quintessential northern experience: expansive skies, crashing waves, and glacier-carved rocks descending to the water. It features smooth, scenic pavement with numerous pull-outs, lake views, and roadside attractions such as beaches, interpretive panels about the Group of Seven, waterfalls, and lookouts.
Highlights along the way.
Chippewa Falls Rest Area - Marking the halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway, this easily accessible rest area is a perfect quick stop for photos and a stretch.
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.
Grab a Fritter 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.
Agawa Bay Scenic Lookout - 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.
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.
Wawa Goose - A ride up the North Shore wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Wawa to snap a pic with the giant Wawa Goose.
Make it a tour.
The Grand Algoma Tour - an incredible 2-day journey along the Lake Superior coastline and through the heart of Algoma. Not only will this 682 km / 424 mi loop let you explore this section of Highway 17 along Lake Superior, but you'll also have the chance to cross off another scenic road on your list.
Ride tip: plan fuel stops and bring a waterproof layer; Lake Superior’s weather can flip on a dime.
Winding through the white quartzite ridges of the La Cloche Mountains, Highway 6 offers a truly magical experience.
Highway 6 — Little Current to Espanola
If you want a twisting, intimate ride that concludes with the novelty of a one-lane swing bridge onto an island, Highway 6 from Espanola onto Manitoulin Island via Little Current is an ideal choice. The road winds through the white quartzite ridges of the La Cloche Mountains and passes by dozens of lakes and shallow marshes, featuring fun swiping corners and stunning viewpoints like Ten Mile Point and the Little Current waterfront. Stopping for local food (and a craft beer in Little Current) makes this a relaxed day trip.
Highlights along the way.
Whitefish Falls - just off Hwy 6, north of Manitoulin Island. This is a small waterfall with several drops, totalling about 30 feet.
Little Current - In Little Current, there's a variety of eateries and accommodations to ensure a comfortable stay, along with stunning waterfront views.
Ten Mile Point - Browse the Ten Mile Point Trading Post and enjoy spectacular views of Georgian Bay.
The Swing Bridge - A historic bridge connecting the mainland to Manitoulin Island.
Make it a tour.
Manitoulin Quick Outing: Espanola → Hwy 6 → swing bridge into Little Current → loop around Manitoulin’s north shore and back. Great for a long day or a relaxed weekend.
Georgian Bay Coastal Route - the 1200-kilometre loop hugs the coast of the Georgian Bay, including this spectacular ride along Highway 6, and makes a perfect weekend getaway.
Ride tip: the Little Current swing bridge opens regularly for marine traffic; expect brief single-lane alternating traffic and a few curious tourists.
With river views over your shoulder, the Highway 129 setting is as good as the ride.
Highway 129 — Thessalon to Chapleau
Twisting between rock and river, Highway 129 is a dream route for riders seeking a true “rider’s road.” Narrow and winding, lined by dense pine trees and rocky cliffs, this road is often called northern Ontario’s version of the Tail of the Dragon. The southern 100-kilometre section offers tight, side-to-side curves and sudden elevation changes; the north half opens up into long, sweeping bends. With river views over your shoulder, the setting is as good as the ride, remote, stunning, and has a secretive feel. Watch out for wildlife, and keep in mind that amenities can be few and far between.
Highlights along the way.
Thessalon - a welcoming community on the north shore of Lake Huron. Grab a bite, check out the waterfront or cool off at the beach.
Tunnel Lake Trading - Great service mixed with awesome people. Here you will also find the Ontario Tail of the Dragon sign for a photo op.
Blackcreek Outfitters - Northern hospitality at its best, stop for a chat, fill up the gas tank or grab some lunch.
Aubrey Falls - a stunning, multi-chuted waterfall in Aubrey Falls Provincial Park. The road leading in is sandy dirt and can be soft. A short walk leads you to the viewing areas.
Make it a tour.
The Grand Algoma Tour - An incredible 2-day journey along the Lake Superior coastline and through the heart of Algoma. Not only will this 682 km / 424 mi loop let you explore this section of Highway 129 along Lake Superior, but you'll also have the chance to cross off another scenic road on your list.
Ride tip: check fuel and tires, cell service is patchy, and shoulders are narrow in spots.
Lakes and forests, Highway 11 is classic Northern Ontario.
Highway 11 — North Bay to New Liskeard
Highway 11 is the spine of Northern Ontario, and the stretch north of North Bay toward New Liskeard carries a lovely mix of old pines, lakeside views, granite lookouts and small northern towns. You’ll pass through areas with photo-ops (lakefronts and roadside attractions), Temagami’s backcountry access and the Temiskaming region’s dramatic Devil’s Rock, and the Lake Temiskaming shoreline as you approach New Liskeard. It’s a flexible route you can tailor into a day of twisty two-lane roads or a longer northbound touring leg that connects to other loops.
Highlights along the way.
Marten River Provincial Park and Logging Museum - A replica 19th-century logging camp is worth a stop.
Gramp's Place - Souvenirs, fishing tackle, a small assortment of grocery items and gas if needed.
Temagami Information Centre - Located in the old train station, this centre offers information and features local crafts and art.
Temagami Fire Tower Lookout - The 100' high Temagami Fire Tower stands on the summit of Caribou Mountain, 400' above the town.
Ms Claybelt the Cow - Because who doesn't love a photo op with a big cow?
Make it a tour.
The Lake Temiskaming Tour - This 400-km journey through Ontario's Near North and Wilderness Region is sure to delight. The tour includes this scenic stretch of Highway 11 and returns via the equally spectacular Highway 101 on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River.
Ride tip: plan an overnight at a lakefront community; the sunsets on Lake Temiskaming are worth the stop.
Highway 60 through Algonquin Park is always spectacular.
Highway 60 — Through Algonquin Provincial Park
If you want classic Canadian scenery, old forests, endless lakes and shoreline lookouts, Highway 60 through Algonquin is a must. The Highway 60 corridor is the park’s main artery and provides access to the Algonquin Visitor Centre, logging museum, art centre, and dozens of short hikes and overlooks. In the fall, especially, the corridor lights up with colour; in summer, it’s a green mosaic of water and sky. There are more tourists in peak season, so pick early starts, but the views and the photo stops make the route a year-round favourite for riders. The ride doesn't end at the park’s gate, as Highway 60 continues east towards Ottawa.
Highlights along the way.
Algonquin Visitor Centre - A fantastic place to learn about Algonquin Park.
Algonquin Logging Museum - Explore the past to learn about history and the logging era.
Lake of Two Rivers Cafe and Grill - Popular spot in the park to grab a bite to eat, but expensive.
Algonquin Lunch Bar & Gas Station - I always stop here, get gas for the bike and a bite to eat.
Wilno Tavern Restaurant - Super-friendly staff, excellent service, and yummy food.
St. Mary's Church - Beautiful Polish Church in Wilno, Canada’s first Polish Settlement. Fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
Make it a tour.
There are several options for incorporating Highway 60 into a broader Ontario motorcycle tour. From the friendly team at Ride The Highlands, the Fall Loop is a fantastic way to explore Hwy 60 and beyond.
The Great Canadian Wilderness features the Big Loop, a 1000 km journey that passes through Algonquin Park along Hwy 60.
Then there is my personal favourite motor adventure, Motorcycle Touring Ontario- Top 10 Roads In Cottage Country.
Ride tip: if you plan to stop and explore the park, a permit is required; some attractions are seasonal. I
How to ride these roads (practical advice)
Fuel and range: Northern Ontario has long stretches with few stations. Top up when you can and carry a compact fuel bottle if you plan long detours.
Tires & gear: bring tires with good tread and predictable wet grip — many of these roads get surface sand/grit, especially in spring. Layer up: temps change fast when you climb or hug the lakes.
Timing: spring shoulder season can mean gravel patches and sanding; fall gives the showiest colours (and colder nights). Summer offers the longest daylight and the most services.
Wildlife & road hazards: watch for deer, moose and wandering birds. Slow for bridge approaches and gravel sidings.
Stops & rhythm: plan shorter ride segments with meaningful stops — waterfalls, lookouts and town bakeries turn a good ride into a great memory.
Final thought
Ontario’s roads are as varied as they are wide: shoreline drama, deep pine forests, timeless lakes and roads that ask nothing more of you than to lean in. Whether you’re chasing sweepers, chasing colours in October, or chasing a quiet morning stop at a lake, these five routes deliver some of the province’s best motorcycle touring, and plenty of reasons to turn around and ride them again.
