Traveling the Canadian side of the Lake Superior Circle Tour is a journey through landscapes shaped by water, rock, and time, and through communities that welcome travelers with local stories, unforgettable scenery, and one-of-a-kind experiences. From the moment you cross the border into Ontario to the final stretch in Sault Ste. Marie, each stop adds something special to the drive.
Neebing
Neebing is the first Canadian community you will experience when crossing the border from Minnesota at Pigeon River. It sets the tone for the journey with wide open spaces, forests, and a strong connection to the land. Nearby Pigeon River Provincial Park is home to High Falls and offers scenic trails and picnic areas overlooking the rushing river. Food lovers will want to stop at Thunder Oak Cheese Farm, known for its handcrafted artisan cheeses and rural farm setting. Neebing is a quiet but powerful introduction to Northern Ontario.
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay is the largest city along the Canadian Lake Superior Circle Tour route and serves as a major hub for culture, history, and outdoor adventure. Just west of the city, Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park showcases one of Ontario’s most impressive waterfalls, often called the Niagara of the North. Within the city, the Thunder Bay Waterfront District offers walking paths, public art, dining, shopping, and views across Lake Superior.
Families and road trippers can choose from several camping options, including Thunder Bay KOA, Chippewa Park Campground, and Trowbridge Falls Campground, each offering easy access to nature while staying close to city amenities. Fort William Historical Park provides a deep dive into fur trade history through immersive exhibits and costumed interpreters. Visitors will also find comfortable accommodations at Days Inn Thunder Bay, sailing adventures with Sail Superior, and a stop at Thunder Bay Harley Davidson for those touring the route on two wheels.
Silver Islet
Located on the Sibley Peninsula, Silver Islet is a small lakeside community with a big history. Once home to one of the richest silver mines in the world, today it is known for its quiet charm and stunning views over Lake Superior. A stop at the Silver Islet General Store is a must for snacks, souvenirs, and a sense of the area’s heritage before continuing along the peninsula.
Shuniah
Shuniah stretches along the shores of Black Bay and is known for its natural beauty and geological treasures. The area is home to two popular amethyst destinations, Amethyst Mine Panorama and Diamond Willow Amethyst Mine, where visitors can learn about Ontario’s official gemstone and even hunt for their own crystals. Shuniah offers a peaceful blend of shoreline scenery and hands-on experiences that connect visitors to the land beneath their feet.
Red Rock
Red Rock sits along Nipigon Bay, framed by dramatic cliffs and open water views. Outdoor adventures include the Red Rock Mountain Trail, Nipigon River Recreation Trail, and scenic vistas from Lloyd’s Lookout. Visitors can explore local history at the Red Rock Marina & Interpretive Centre, enjoy shoreline walks, and stay at The Lodge at Red Rock or the historic Red Rock Inn. Its small size and stunning scenery make it a perfect pause along the Circle Tour for photography, hiking, or simply taking in the scale of Lake Superior.
Nipigon
Nipigon sits where the Nipigon River meets Lake Superior and is often called the heart of the Top of Lake Superior. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views from the Bridgeview Lookout Tower, take a leisurely walk along the Nipigon River Recreation Trail, or grab a coffee at A Cup of Joy inside Twigs in Bloom. Travelers can also visit the Parks Canada Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area Visitor Centre, an official Circle Tour stamp location. The community offers convenient stops like Zechner’s Food Market for supplies, cozy accommodations at the Birchville Motel, or a unique overnight experience right on the lake at Cypress Sleeper Barrels, located just outside Nipigon. With its mix of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality, Nipigon is a welcoming place to pause and take in the stunning lake and river scenery.
Rossport
Rossport is a quiet village east of Nipigon that offers lakeside views, charming accommodations, and opportunities to connect with nature. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing or kayaking along the calm waters, or explore nearby trails including the Rossport Coastal Trail and the Casque Isles Trail, which links scenic shoreline paths between Terrace Bay and Rossport and offers rugged rock formations and panoramic lake views. Its small size gives it a hidden-gem feel, making it perfect for travelers seeking peace, scenic photography, and an authentic taste of small-town life on the North Shore.
Schreiber
Schreiber’s roots run deep in Canada’s railway history as one of the oldest rail towns on the North Shore of Lake Superior, and the Discovery Centre and Railway Museum brings that history to life with artifacts, stories and exhibits that reveal how the railway shaped the community’s growth from an 1880s construction camp into the town it is today. Nature and outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore here too, with easy access to Schreiber Beach and trails along the route of the famed Casque Isles Trail. Nearby Rainbow Falls Provincial Park adds more hiking options along rivers and the Rainbow Falls cascades.
Terrace Bay
Terrace Bay is known for its dramatic landscapes and striking views of Lake Superior. A visit to Aguasabon Falls reveals powerful cascades and scenic walking trails, while Terrace Bay Beach offers a peaceful place to relax by the water. The Terrace Bay Lighthouse stands as a modern landmark and lookout point with panoramic views of the surrounding area. Travelers can enjoy local brews at Slate Island Brewing Company, find comfortable lodging at the Jackfish Lake Cottages, and take in the community’s welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Marathon
Marathon is surrounded by forests and Lake Superior’s shoreline. Visitors can explore Pebble Beach, known for its smooth stones and sweeping views. Gchi‑Waaswaaganing is a community cultural hub that highlights Biigtigong Nishnaabeg heritage, with handcrafted goods, snacks, events, and Circle Tour stamps. It provides travelers with a chance to connect with local Indigenous culture while enjoying the town’s lakeside setting.
Wawa
Wawa is one of the most recognizable stops on the Circle Tour thanks to its iconic Canada Goose statue. Beyond the photo opportunity, the area is rich with natural beauty, including Scenic High Falls and numerous rivers and trails. Visitors can stay at the Wawa Motor Inn and book outdoor experiences with Naturally Superior Adventures, offering guided paddling and exploration opportunities. Wawa blends roadside nostalgia with genuine wilderness adventure.
Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie marks the southern anchor of the Canadian Lake Superior Circle Tour. The Canal District offers historic locks, waterfront paths, and views of passing vessels. The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre showcases the region’s aviation and firefighting history through engaging exhibits, while Entomica invites visitors into an immersive world focused on insects and biodiversity. Travelers can enjoy local beer at Soo Falls Brewing Co. or sweet treats from Queen’s Tarts. The city’s mix of culture, history, and urban energy makes it a fitting conclusion to the Circle Tour.
Each community along the Canadian Lake Superior Circle Tour has its own personality, history, and natural beauty. From vibrant cities to quiet hamlets, these towns invite travelers to experience Northern Ontario in a way that is memorable, personal, and connected to both the lake and the land.
