Outdoor Adventures
A Four-Season Outdoor Adventure Destination
North Bay is made for outdoor adventures!
At only 3.5 hours from Toronto and Ottawa, and surrounded by forests, lakes, rivers and provincial parks, North Bay is home to authentic Northern Ontario outdoor adventures, from soft adventure experiences to high-adrenaline power sports.
As a waterfront city, North Bay sits between Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake, two exceptional destinations for paddling, boating and fishing, and multiple rivers including the scenic Mattawa River. Waterfall hike lovers will cherish the powerful Duchesnay Falls in all seasons.
Set on the rugged Canadian Shield, North Bay is known as the ‘Gateway to the North’, where rocky landscapes create exceptional hiking and mountain biking in summer. In winter the forests are transformed into peaceful snow-covered trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the Laurentian Escarpment, while Lake Nipissing becomes a premier destination for world-class ice fishing.
Family & Beginner-Friendly
Families and first-time adventurers will find accessible trails, beginner-friendly paddling, welcoming accommodations and guided experiences that make exploring Northern Ontario easy.
Whether you prefer gentle hikes with kids in tow, easy paddling and wildlife viewing, or high-energy activities like mountain biking, snowmobiling, ATV riding, and power-sport excursions, start planning your road trip or weekend getaway to North Bay today with these family-friendly trip ideas.
Gateway to the Northern Backcountry
North Bay is within one hour of seven provincial parks and backcountry paddling and camping destinations, including Algonquin Provincial Park, the iconic Temagami region and the historic French River to Georgian Bay route. Gear up, stock your supplies and book a cute cottage or bed and breakfast to begin or celebrate the end of your backcountry adventure in North Bay.
With hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails, paddling routes and nearby wilderness to explore, North Bay truly lives up to its reputation as the Gateway to the North and a premier outdoor adventure destination in Northeastern Ontario.
Fishing
Fishing
Whether it’s casting a line under the summer sun or drilling through the ice in winter, North Bay, offers a wealth of fishing opportunities year-round.
Cycling
Cycling
Paved pathways, smooth roads, rugged mountain bike trails and endless gravel backroads – North Bay has a cycling adventure for every rider.
Golf
Golf
North Bay and surrounding areas are home to several golf courses that offer gorgeous views and challenging courses for both amateur and experienced golfers.
Winter Fun
Winter Fun
Winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland, offering a host of exciting activities and breathtaking scenery. With its proximity to snow-capped forests and frozen lakes, North Bay is a haven for winter enthusiasts.
Motor Sports
Motor Sports
There’s a reason road trips are a part of the Canadian identity. It’s not just the desire to travel, to see new things.
Boating
Boating
Boaters can embark on exciting journeys across the expansive lake, surrounded by stunning vistas and serene landscapes.
Paddling
Paddling
A thrilling and immersive experience that allows outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the region’s pristine waterways.
Hiking
Hiking
Your gateway to trails that wind through woods, marshes, shorelines and even history that mixes culture and geography.
STAY
STAY
Whether planning a weekend getaway or a family vacation, North Bay has accomodation to suit everyone's needs.
Eat & Drink
Eat & Drink
SEE & DO
SEE & DO
EVENTS
EVENTS
The official visitor guide to local festivals, events and activities in and around North Bay.