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A Must-Visit Gem on the Lake Superior North Shore

Looking for your next road trip stop along the Lake Superior Circle Tour? Add Terrace Bay, Ontario to your list. This small but mighty town on the North Shore of Lake Superior is packed with natural beauty, unique attractions, and small-town charm. Whether you're into hiking, paddling, photography, or craft beer, there’s something for everyone in Terrace Bay.

Here’s your complete travel guide to discovering the best things to do in Terrace Bay, Ontario.

Terrace Bay Beach

One of the most scenic beaches on Lake Superior, Terrace Bay Beach is where locals and travellers alike come to relax. With soft golden sand, clear water, and epic views of the Slate Islands, this beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and watching the sunset.

📍 Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and make it a day trip. You’ll find picnic tables, a boat launch, and plenty of parking.

Parks Canada Red Chairs

Terrace Bay is part of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, and that means you’ll find Parks Canada’s iconic red chairs here. These Adirondack chairs are placed in stunning, serene locations across Canada, and the view from the ones in Terrace Bay is unforgettable.

📸 Don’t forget your camera. This is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in town.

Terrace Bay Lighthouse

A symbol of the town, the Terrace Bay Lighthouse is a must-visit. It's a scaled replica of the lighthouse on nearby Slate Island Provincial Park and offers panoramic views of the town, the beach, and the surrounding boreal forest. Best of all? You can climb it!

🕰️ Open during the summer months, this is a great stop for families, photographers, and history buffs alike.

Group of Seven Interpretive Panel

Located right beside the lighthouse is a Group of Seven interpretive panel. The famous Canadian landscape artists travelled through this region, and their legacy lives on in these wild, windswept vistas. Take a moment to learn how Terrace Bay inspired some of Canada’s most iconic artwork.

Slate Island Brewing Company

You can’t visit Terrace Bay without stopping at Slate Island Brewing Company. This local craft brewery is a celebration of northern heritage, with beers inspired by the rugged beauty of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.

🥇 Try the “Long Light” lager or the “Storm Surfer” pale ale - two local favourites.

🍽️ They also offer snacks and a cozy atmosphere perfect for winding down after a day of hiking or exploring.

Aguasabon Falls

Just minutes from the town centre, Aguasabon Falls is one of the most dramatic waterfalls in Northern Ontario. The 100-foot cascade plunges into a deep gorge below and is easily accessed by a well-maintained path and viewing platform.

📷 Best time to visit? Spring or early summer, when the water flow is at its peak.

Don’t Miss: Add Aguasabon Gorge Lookout to your photo list-just a short walk from the falls.

Casque Isles Hiking Trail

Looking for adventure? The Casque Isles Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Ontario. Stretching 53 km from Terrace Bay to Rossport, the trail offers rugged terrain, dramatic cliffs, forested paths, and unmatched views of Lake Superior.

🗺️ You don’t need to hike the whole thing. Popular segments include the Lyda Bay to Terrace Bay Beach section, which can be completed in an afternoon.

More Ontario Hiking Inspiration: Camping Your Way Around Algonquin Park

Cycle the Terrace Bay Lighthouse Run Loop

Prefer two wheels? The Terrace Bay Lighthouse Run Loop is a scenic cycling route that circles through the most beautiful parts of town—including the lighthouse, beach, brewery, and more.

🚲 This route is perfect for beginner to intermediate riders and offers plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view.

Cycling Fan? Check out our bikepacking blogs

Why Visit Terrace Bay, Ontario?

Whether you’re road-tripping the Trans-Canada Highway, exploring the North Shore of Lake Superior, or planning a weekend getaway in Northern Ontario, Terrace Bay delivers big on nature, culture, and charm.

Here’s what makes it special:

🏖️ Stunning shoreline at Terrace Bay Beach
❤️ Iconic Parks Canada red chairs
🌊 A climbable lighthouse with lake views
🍻 A cozy brewery with local craft beer
🌲 Access to top-tier hiking and cycling trails
🌊 The roaring power of Aguasabon Falls

And best of all? It’s not overrun with tourists - yet.

Where to Stay in Terrace Bay

Terrace Bay has a few solid options for overnight stays, including local motels, Airbnbs, and nearby campgrounds. If you're road-tripping in an RV or camper, there’s a great municipal RV park right near the beach.

RV Trip Ideas: Eight-Day RV Itinerary – Northern Ontario

Planning Your Trip to Terrace Bay

Getting There: Terrace Bay is located on Highway 17, about halfway between Thunder Bay and Wawa—an ideal stop on any Lake Superior Circle Tour itinerary.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall offer the best weather for hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.

Must-Have Gear: Bring layers, hiking boots, your camera, and a sense of adventure.

More information: Superiorcountry.ca

Terrace Bay may be small, but it’s one of the top hidden gems in Northern Ontario. With dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable sights, it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down - and you won’t regret it.

✨ Add Terrace Bay, Ontario to your Lake Superior itinerary and discover what makes this town truly special.