The main Cranberry Trail stretches roughly 2.5 km one-way. It winds through mixed forest, marshland and cranberry bogs and ends with a rewarding view over Lake Nipissing‘s Callander Bay. Choose the Cranberry Trails for easy access to classic Northern Ontario scenery in all seasons – summer, winter and fall.

The wide gravel surface is suitable for all fitness levels and ages which is a perfect choice for children, families and older adults. Come pick cranberries at the annual Fall Cranberry Festival. Bring your binoculars for bird watching all year-round. It’s a nice lunch spot in summer for cyclists riding by on the Kate Pace Way.

Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing

Just south of North Bay in Callander, the Cranberry Trail offers some of the most accessible winter hiking trails and snowshoeing trails in the region. Wide, gently rolling paths make this network a natural choice for winter activities like snowshoeing, winter hikes, fat biking, and family walks in winter with kids in tow. From quiet weekday snowshoeing to fun weekend getaways with family or friends, this easy trail network showcases the best of winter near North Bay.

With interpretative signages, benches along the way and parking conveniently located at the end of Cranberry Road adjacent to the Osprey Links Golf Course, the year-round Cranberry Trails rank among the top places to visit in summer, winter and fall for both visitors and locals.

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The centre features twin ice surfaces built to NHL regulation standards, perfect for seamless tournament scheduling with minimal downtime and ideal for hockey, ringette, figure skating, and tradeshows. Fourteen flexible change rooms, all barrier-free, include eight convertible rooms that transform into four enlarged spaces to accommodate teams of varying sizes or special accessibility needs. Climate-controlled viewing areas provide warm, comfortable spectator spaces with excellent sightlines ensuring an enjoyable experience even during the coldest Ontario winters. An upper-level walking/running track offers multi-use space for warm-ups, cool-downs during events along with overall health and wellness while a large community room provides versatile space for coaches’ meetings, tournament briefings, team meals, registration, and awards ceremonies. Over 400 parking spaces, including dedicated bus spaces for traveling teams, plus transit pick-up and drop-off at the main entrance, ensure convenient access for all visitors.

Situated in Northern Ontario with easy highway access, the facility is part of the premier Steve Omischl Sports Field Complex, creating unique opportunities for multi-sport events that combine ice sports with outdoor field activities. The fully accessible, barrier-free design throughout ensures inclusivity for all participants and spectators. Tourism North Bay provides comprehensive event planning assistance, from accommodations and dining to entertainment options for teams and families, delivering our proud hosting legacy and genuine Northern Ontario hospitality.

Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your tournament or event needs.

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The facility features six sheets of meticulously maintained ice, renowned for exceptional quality under the expertise of Head Ice Technician Bruno Bin, providing ideal conditions for competitive tournaments and recreational play alike. Modern amenities include well-equipped change rooms, a fully stocked pro shop, comfortable lounge areas, and a professional Curling Stadium streaming system that allows fans worldwide to follow the action. The club successfully accommodates curlers of all ages and abilities through organized leagues, instructional programs, tournaments, and special events. Beyond curling, the Granite Club offers four seasons of recreation with five outdoor tennis courts and two outdoor pickleball courts, plus versatile hall rental spaces perfect for tournament banquets, awards ceremonies, and special events.

With over 600 combined members served by professional staff and passionate volunteer leaders, the North Bay Granite Club delivers exceptional hospitality and proven tournament infrastructure. Located in North Bay’s east end with ample parking and easy access, the facility sits near the city’s waterfront attractions, dining, and accommodations. The club’s 75-year track record of hosting major curling events, combined with world-class ice conditions, experienced event management, and warm Northern Ontario community spirit, makes it an ideal destination for curling tournaments, bonspiels, and championships of all levels.

Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your event needs.

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Waterfalls – there are few things that possess such a rugged, awe-striking power. Here in North Bay, we reside amongst one of them. In Northern Ontario, the contrast of land and water is plentiful, lending itself to some truly beautiful areas. This part of the province is a complex maze of lakes all connected by their tributaries, be it creeks or rivers. As the elevation drops and water is forced to navigate tough terrain, we are left with everyone’s favourite natural feature: waterfalls.

Located on Nipissing First Nations land Duchesnay Falls is a natural wonder, captivating the minds of all who hike towards it, holding them in its majesty. Located just minutes from downtown North Bay, this glacial formation is a popular destination for even the most modest of hikers. It’s beauty summons photographers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape. It is accessible and it goes on and on and on….

Resting atop the Laurentian Escarpment, behind Nipissing University and Canadore College, the Duchesnay Creek carves through the Canadian Shield, weaving and flowing downward to Lake Nipissing. Duchesnay Falls begins in a modest fashion as a series of low, mesmerizing cascades before decisively parting into two branches. As the river continues to slope downwards along the west branch, the age-old battle of water versus gravity intensifies, erupting into an endless display of serene power with a scenic backdrop. After several smaller cascades fail to halt the surge of rumbling water, the battle reaches its climax. As the water reaches the bottom of the river, it faces its biggest adversity yet: a 20-meter plummet followed by a 10-meter drop, resulting in one of North Bay’s most picturesque spots.

Accessible from multiple spots, Duchesnay Falls and the Education Centre Trails are a hikers delight. Surrounded by hardwood forest amongst the maples, oaks, birches, and pines, this entire area is a four-season wonder. Venturing on a waterfall hike during he spring run-off provides a jaw-dropping experience to witness the sheer volume of water passing through. In the summer, the forest is alive with local flora and fauna displaying the rich and healthy local environment. The fall colours are breathtaking in this forest, painting the sky with yellow and red. A fall hike on the Education Centre Trails is mandatory for any outdoor enthusiast.

Duchesnay Falls in Winter – Stunning!

Duchesnay Falls is one of the most iconic North Bay hiking trails and a must-see destination for winter activities in Northern Ontario. In the colder months, this waterfall and forested valley turn into a snowy playground, perfect for winter hikes and snowshoeing trails that weave along Duchesnay Creek and through mature hardwood forest. Frozen cascades, icy rock formations, and views over the Canadian Shield create a stunning backdrop for couples, families with kids, people with dogs and friends looking for memorable winter sports close to the city. 

The winter hiking trails link Duchesnay Falls with the Nipissing University & Canadore College Trails, giving visitors the flexibility to choose shorter family-friendly loops or longer adventures that feel wild yet remain easy to access and close to downtown North Bay. 

With multiple trailheads near the university and adjacent to Highway 17, this is one of the easiest places to visit in winter if you want to combine fresh air, scenic views, and an authentic North Bay winter experience. Whether you are snowshoeing, hiking or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll through the trees, Duchesnay Falls delivers a classic Northern Ontario winter outing.

Whether you choose to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski, this is a family-friendly opportunity you simply cannot pass up. This free-to-use trail network is a local gem where you can go birding, likely catch a glimpse of some wildlife, and escape the urban hustle without going far at all!

Consistently thought of as one of the best four-season waterfall destinations in Ontario, come see it for yourself! With so many vantage points to explore and photograph from and the dramatic seasonal changes to witness, this is one waterfall that will not disappoint you.

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The facility features twin regulation-sized rinks (180′ x 85′ each) that enable efficient tournament scheduling and simultaneous games with minimal downtime, supported by twelve team change rooms providing ample space for tournaments and multi-team events. Comfortable viewing areas accommodate approximately 150 spectators per side with warm seating for families and fans, while an on-site boardroom with capacity for 60 people serves as an ideal space for coaches’ meetings, tournament briefings, or registration. Convenient amenities including concessions, and professional ice maintenance ensure a quality experience for all participants. Two hundred parking spaces accommodate teams, families, and tournament staff with easy access, and summer ice availability extends programming opportunities beyond traditional seasons.

Located in North Bay’s east end, the facility offers convenient highway access via Seymour Street and Wallace Road, making it easily accessible for visiting teams. Just ten minutes away, the Waterfront District features the Heritage Train & Carousel, Chief Commanda II dinner cruises, sandy beaches, marina, and Kate Pace Way walking trail. Cultural attractions including Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence, and Dionne Quints Museum showcase regional history, while outdoor adventures at Duchesnay Falls trails, Laurier Woods Conservation Area, Education Trails, Laurentian Ski Hill, and Canadore Sportsplex which offer year-round recreation. Downtown North Bay’s diverse restaurants, shops, and services are within minutes of the facility. With experienced staff and proven programming infrastructure, Pete Palangio Arena provides reliable operations for events of all sizes.

Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your event needs.

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The arena features a regulation-sized ice surface (180′ x 85′) providing quality conditions for competitive hockey, ringette, figure skating, ball hockey, recreational skating, as well as martial art tournaments and trade show opportunities. Five team dressing rooms accommodate tournaments and multi-team events, while comfortable seating for approximately 300 spectators creates an intimate atmosphere for competitive play. The facility offers versatile meeting spaces including a 150-person auditorium and 16-person boardroom, ideal for tournament briefings, registration, coaches’ meetings, or awards ceremonies. Event amenities include a full kitchen equipped with stove, microwave, refrigerators, and dishwasher. Eighty on-site parking spaces provide convenient access for teams, families, and event staff, with ball hockey rentals available during the off-ice season.

Situated in North Bay’s established West Ferris community, the arena provides easy access from downtown and surrounding areas via Algonquin Avenue and Main Street East. Just five minutes away, Downtown North Bay offers diverse dining options, shopping, and local businesses along Main Street. Within ten minutes, visitors can enjoy the Waterfront District (seasonal) featuring the Heritage Train & Carousel, Chief Commanda II dinner cruises, sandy beaches, marina, and the scenic Kate Pace Way trail system. Cultural attractions including the North Bay Museum, and Dionne Quints Museum, while Duchesnay Falls trails, Laurier Woods Conservation Area, Education Trails, and Laurentian Ski Hill provide year-round outdoor recreation for teams and families.

Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your event needs.

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The facility accommodates over 4,000 spectators for hockey events and offers exceptional versatility, transforming to host concerts, tradeshows, elegant dinners, and special events for audiences exceeding 500 people. Memorial Gardens features a regulation NHL-sized ice surface maintained to elite standards for competitive hockey, ringette, figure skating, and curling, along with updated dressing rooms and professional-grade amenities that meet OHL and OUA standards. With nearly 70 years of hosting experience, the arena provides event organizers with proven infrastructure and a community passionate about delivering exceptional events.

Centrally located in downtown North Bay, Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens offers convenient access with ample parking and proximity to hotels, restaurants, and local amenities. The venue provides comprehensive full-service support including an on-site box office with automated ticketing, licensed alcohol service, concessions, and experienced event management staff ready to assist with tournaments, championships, and entertainment productions of all sizes. Whether hosting a regional hockey tournament, national curling championship, rodeo or sold-out concert, Memorial Gardens delivers the professional facilities, experienced support, and passionate community that make every event successful.

Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your event needs.

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The two-way trail system rolls over rock slabs, teeters on rock skinnies, climbs steep rocks, and floats around natural bedrock berms, all features of the ancient Canadian Shield. Warm-up or build your skills on the skills pump track right at the trailhead.

Northern Ontario Mountain Biking Destination

Professional cyclist Emily Batty, took to the Three Towers trail in 2023 and had nothing but glowing words to say about it… “I had an amazing time and I truly think this is a destination worth coming to and checking out,” said Emily. And continues on to say,  “The three tower trails here were so much fun. The rock and the terrain that this area has to offer—to ride and look for new lines to challenge myself as a professional while riding with beginners was amazing.”

Mountain Bike Visitor Promotion

From June 19 to November 10, 2024,  a new cycling initiative, ‘Mountain Bike Our Way in North Bay’, aims to encourage all biking enthusiasts to experience the diverse terrain and scenic trails unique to our city. Simply book a room at any participating bicycle-friendly accommodation in the promotion period.

Scroll below for the Stay + Play Packages that are part of this promotion. Visit a participating accommodation from the Stay + Play page, use the promo codes on the image to unlock your hotel discount and become an honorary member of the North Bay Mountain Bike Association. Note that the promotion is open to all cyclists:

Mountain Bike Our Way Promotion Benefits

1. Discounted stay at participating bicycle-friendly accommodations 

2. Honourary membership and Trail Pass

3. NBMBA Bike Tag (one). Show this tag at local businesses for select NBMBA member benefits including $1 off taproom pours at local breweries, discounts on bike parts/ tune-up at local bike shops, etc.

4. Three Towers Trail Map and local resources for MTB bike club rides, clinics, race dates for 2024, bike shop contact info, member discounts – sent by PDF to inbox and available in print.

5. How to connect with local riders/ club members

6. The Adventure Trails Map, showcasing 1000+ km of four-season trails in the region

7. North Bay postcard, stickers and magazine

The North Bay Mountain Bike Association (NBMBA) is an incorporated not-for-profit organization that seeks to advocate for the sport of mountain biking and mountain bike trails in North Bay and has worked hard to create an exciting ride encompassing the best of the Canadian Shield.

North Bay has an ever increasing, dedicated community of mountain bike enthusiasts and we thank them for their hard work they do to create such fun and family friendly trails.

Stay + Play Packages

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Spanning over 300 kilometers, VMUTS offers riders an extensive network of well-maintained trails that wind through scenic landscapes, including forests, fields, and frozen water bodies (winter trails only).

The trail system is designed to provide outdoor enthusiasts with an exceptional experience, whether they’re snowmobiling or riding ATVs. VMUTS offers a variety of trail options suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders seeking more challenging routes.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the region, VMUTS offers an exciting adventure for snowmobilers and ATV riders alike. It’s an opportunity to explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and enjoy the thrill of riding through a well-maintained trail system.  VMUTS can be accessed via the Town of Mattawa which is approximately 45km east of North Bay.

For further information check out our guide to Powersports in North Bay.

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Make your way through a mix of hardwood and conifers that are perfect for all ages and ski levels. The ski trails are classically groomed and the track set includes 7½ km of double-track. Access skiing or snowshoeing or both on your annual membership or visitor day pass.

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