Top of Superior
Motorcycle Route

Communities:

This motorcycle tour will bring riders through Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Silver Islet, Ouimet Canyon, Red Rock, Nipigon, Schreiber, Terrace Bay, Marathon, and Manitouwadge.

Tips:

This route is a 2-day, overnight ride. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended.

Start Location:

Begin your ride at Thunder Bay’s Hillcrest Park or a place of your preference.

Ride Highlights

• Kakabeka Falls
• Terry Fox Monument
• Highway 587
• Silver Islet General Store
• Ouimet Canyon
• Nipigon Bridgeview Lookout Tower
• Aguasabon Falls
• Beaches

Ride Start: Hillcrest Park

Your journey starts in the big city because there are a few things you just can’t miss in the city. Begin at Hillcrest Park. Right in the heart of Thunder Bay, it has arguably the best view of the famous Sleeping Giant peninsula.

Suggested Stop: Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park

From Hillcrest Park, make your way to Highway 17, and head west to Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. At Kakabeka Falls, riders will be treated to one of Ontario’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Known as the “Niagara of the North,” the falls cascade 40 meters into a rugged gorge, sending up mist and creating a thunderous roar that can be heard before the falls even come into view. A stop here offers more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a chance to experience the raw power of nature up close. The well-maintained boardwalks and viewing platforms allow riders to take in multiple angles of the falls.

Whether taking a short break to stretch your legs or enjoying a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas, Kakabeka Falls provides a refreshing and awe-inspiring stop before continuing the ride along the shores of Lake Superior.

Suggested Stop: Terry Fox Monument and Lookout

Next, you’ll head east on Highway 11/17 to explore the region. On your way out of Thunder Bay, the famous Terry Fox Monument is an absolute must stop for everyone. Located above Highway 11/17, the Terry Fox Monument and Lookout offers another perspective of the Sleeping Giant. The 9-foot-tall bronze statue beautifully commemorates Terry Fox and his cross-country Marathon of Hope.

Point on Interest: Highway 587

Take a right turn off Highway 11/17 onto Highway 587, and you will quickly find out why this route is one that riders really enjoy. This is part of the Ride the Giant Motorcycle Route. The long winding road down the Sibley Peninsula, the lush Northern Ontario wilderness, and wildlife make it interesting and fun. Keep an eye out for deer!

Point on Interest: Silver Islet

Riders will then head down to Silver Islet, a charming historic mining village on Lake Superior. Known for its scenic beauty and rich history, the area offers a glimpse into its silver mining past. Soak in the picturesque views of this hidden gem.

Suggested Stop: Silver Islet General Store

No visit to Silver Islet is complete without stopping at the historic Silver Islet General Store. This spot is perfect for motorcyclists to unwind and enjoy a snack or coffee while soaking in the quaint atmosphere. The store is brimming with local history and unique goods. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and learn about the town’s mining history.

Turnaround Point:

Silver Islet is the end of this road, and after taking in all the sites here, you will turn around the way you came.

Suggested Stop: Ouimet Canyon

Continue east down 11/17 and you’ll find Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park, where you’ll take in the awe-inspiring rock faces that were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. This natural wonder is a massive gorge over 150 meters (492 ft) wide and plunges 100 meters (328 ft) deep. A short, well-maintained trail leads to two breathtaking viewing platforms, where you can take in a panoramic view of the canyon.

Suggested Stop: Eagle Canyon

They don’t call it Canyon Country for nothing! If you haven’t had your fill of this natural marvel yet, visit Eagle Canyon. They boost the country’s longest suspension footbridge over the canyon.

Suggested Overnight Stop: Red Rock

Red Rock is your next stop, where you’ll find a picturesque marina and an interpretive centre where you can learn all about local history and the flora and fauna of the area.

If you want to stay the night, you’ll also find The Lodge at Red Rock here, a huge historic log cabin off the beaten path above the Nipigon River.

Suggested Stop: Nipigon Bridgeview Lookout

Nipigon is a short 19 km (11.8 mi) down the highway and is located at the crossroads of Canada. Check out the Bridgeview Lookout where you can climb a 40-foot tower and get a panoramic view of Lake Helen, the Nipigon River Bridge, and the town itself. Situated directly off the highway, right before the Nipigon River Bridge, this incredible scenic lookout is a convenient, easy, and accessible stop along the route.

Suggested Stop: Schreiber Beach

Past Nipigon is some of the most scenic riding along the lake. Steep dips and turns reward you with breathtaking views of the largest freshwater lake in the world. In 94 km (58 mi) from Nipigon, you will reach Schreiber. The town has an incredible beach, where you can take a small hike to the Parks Canada Red Chairs and feel like you are the only one left in the world!

Suggested Stop: Aguasabon Falls & Gorge

Terrace Bay is just fifteen minutes further, with a few must-see attractions on this route. Aguasabon Falls & Gorge is well worth the stop. A short walk from the parking area leads to a scenic viewing platform above the 30 metre (98.4 ft) waterfall that drops into the gorge and flows out to Lake Superior.

Suggested Stop: Terrace Bay Lighthouse

A stop at the Terrace Bay Lighthouse offers riders a chance to take in breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Slate Islands from a unique vantage point. This replica lighthouse is the perfect spot for a quick photo and a moment to appreciate the beauty of the North Shore.

Suggested Stop: Terrace Bay Beach

Terrace Bay has a massive beach that is reminiscent of a sandy California shore, with a fraction of the people. Walk through the soft sand or take a walk along the boardwalk. Just beyond the boardwalk and a short hike through the trees, you can enjoy another set of Red Chairs.

Suggested Stop: Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach in Marathon is a unique stop along the route, unlike the sandy beaches found elsewhere. Its shoreline is covered in smooth, rounded stones, shaped by years of crashing waves. Riders can take a short detour into town, park near the beach, and listen to the waves rolling over the pebbles.

With no islands or breakwalls, the open water stretches to the horizon, creating an ocean-like feel. The cool breeze off the lake offers a quick refresh before getting back on the road.

Suggested Stop: Manitouwadge

If you have a little more time to explore, head a bit further and off the beaten path to Manitouwadge. Turn north off of the TransCanada Highway and onto Highway 614. Be sure to stop at the Manitouwadge sign that showcases the town’s love of year-round outdoor recreation, specifically ATVs and snowmobiling. Make a rest stop here for a fun photo-op and to use the restroom before heading into town to enjoy all that Manitouwadge has to offer.

This quaint little town has an inland lake with a beautiful beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.