Are you an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, exploring nature, unwinding, and taking in breathtaking views? Then Terrace Bay, Ontario is the destination for you!
Situated along the shores of Lake Superior, this charming small town offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Discover the top 6 reasons to stay and play in Terrace Bay while traveling the Lake Superior Circle Tour!
1. Visit the Must-See Aguasabon Falls and Gorge
As your near Terrace Bay, you’ll spot a turnoff leading to a short road that takes you to Aguasabon Falls and Gorge. This stunning 100-foot waterfall cascades into Aguasabon Gorge, flowing between a 2.6 billion-year-old rock face.
Once you reach the parking lot, a short walk along the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk will lead you to this incredible view. The parking lot is RV-friendly and offers washrooms and picnic tables, making it an ideal rest stop along your Lake Superior Circle Tour travels.
2. Take a Stroll or Relax at Terrace Bay Beach
As you’re driving through Terrace Bay, you’ll spot wayfinding signs directing you to Terrace Bay Beach. This beautiful sandy beach is home to a Beach Pavilion and a Visitor’s Centre operated by Parks Canada Lake Superior NMCA.
Enjoy a 300-meter-long boardwalk equipped with chairs and benches where you can sit and relax, or continue to the end to find a scenic nature trail that takes you to the iconic Parks Canada Red Chairs, offering stunning views of Lake Superior and the Slate Islands.
The area also features a boat launch providing access to the expansive waters of Lake Superior, as well as an entry point to the Lyda Bay segment of the Casque Isles Hiking Trail. This trail leads to a bridge with stunning views of the Aguasabon River mouth and the beach, offering excellent photo opportunities.
3. Play a Round at the Scenic Aguasabon Golf Course
After visiting Terrace Bay Beach, head back up the road to the Aguasabon Golf Course. This beautiful, yet challenging, 9-hole course overlooks striking views of the Aguasabon River and Lake Superior.
The course features four sets of tees for different skill levels and requires no tee times, making it an enjoyable experience for any time. Once you are done golfing, head up to the Aguasabon Clubhouse to relax on the upper patio and take in the stunning view.
4. Shop and Dine Along Simcoe Plaza
Located at the heart of Terrace Bay lies Simcoe Plaza, offering an array of retail shops, restaurants and businesses.
Take a stroll through the plaza and explore a variety of local shops and essential services, including an EV charging station at the far end. When you’re done shopping, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Drifters Motel & Restaurant, then unwind with a craft beer at Slate Island Brewery (#22 on the Ale Trail map).
You also can’t miss the iconic Terrace Bay Lighthouse, located just off the highway leading to Simcoe Plaza. During the warmer months, visitors can climb to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of Terrace Bay and Lake Superior.
5. Explore Surrounding Attractions
Just a short drive from Terrace Bay, the Township of Schreiber offers unique attractions. Follow the wayfinding signs to Schreiber Beach, a stunning pebble-covered beach with breathtaking lake views and rockfaces. The beach is situated along the Schreiber Channel of the Casque Isles Hiking Trail, with access to the Red Chair Trail, a short and easy hike leading to another set of Parks Canada Red Chairs.
After the beach, visit the Schreiber Discovery Centre & Railway Museum, located right off the highway. Learn about the town’s rich railroad history through local artifacts and stories, exhibits, and a theatre train car experience. This family-friendly stop is also a Lake Superior Circle Tour stamp location, so don’t forget to collect your stamp!
If you’re looking to camp, Terrace Bay is close to two provincial campgrounds: Neys Provincial Park and Rainbow Falls Provincial Park.
Neys Provincial Park is known for its diverse ecosystems and seasonal camping facilities. Enjoy activities like hiking the Lookout or Dune trails, kayaking, camping, or swimming at the sandy beach during the summer.
Rainbow Falls Provincial Park has two campground locations: Whitesand Lake and Rossport, offering a total of 136 campsites, half with electrical service. The Whitesand campground is part of the Casque Isles Hiking Trail, leading to the Rainbow Falls lookout with stunning views of Lake Superior and Whitesand Lake. The park also offers fishing, boating, and paddling opportunities.
Looking to rent a cabin? Jackfish Lake Cottages, just 20 km east of Terrace Bay, offers a family-friendly retreat for outdoor lovers. Surrounded by boreal forest and nearby lakes, it’s ideal for fishing and hunting enthusiasts. Each cottage includes essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
6. Collect Your Stamp at the Tourist Information Centre
The Terrace Bay Tourist Information Centre provides maps and details on local attractions. The friendly staff is happy to assist with all your tourism questions. Open from May to mid-October, it’s located on the Trans Canada Highway next to the Terrace Bay Community Centre.
Browse Terrace Bay merchandise like clothing, postcards, mugs, and more! Be sure to bring your Lake Superior Circle Tour Adventure Guide inside with you to collect your stamp! Also, don’t miss the Lake Superior Circle Tour Kiosk located right outside the centre.
