Calabogie to North Bay: 2-Day Dog‑Friendly Adventure

Day 1: Scenic Drive & Arrival in North Bay

Morning: Start your day in Calabogie Provincial Park with a gentle hike along the Lake Trail, where leashed dogs can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Pack a picnic and let your dog splash at the shore of Calabogie Lake while you relax on the beach.

Afternoon: Depart for North Bay, stopping at the dog‑friendly Mattawa Café for a quick lunch and a chance for your pup to stretch on the patio. Continue the scenic drive along the Ottawa River, making a brief stop at the Stirling Waterfall Lookout for a photo opportunity.

Evening: Arrive at the pet‑friendly North Bay Inn and settle in. Dine at the waterfront The Harbour House, which welcomes dogs on its patio, and finish the night with a leisurely walk along the illuminated North Bay Waterfront Trail.

Day 2: North Bay Exploration

Morning: Begin with a sunrise stroll on the North Bay Waterfront Trail, where your dog can enjoy the scenic shoreline and the nearby dog park. Continue to the Lakefront Park for a relaxed coffee at the pet‑friendly “River Roasters” patio.

Afternoon: Visit the Discovery North Bay Museum—dogs are welcome on the outdoor exhibits and gardens. After exploring, head to the nearby North Bay Marina for a short, dog‑friendly boat tour that offers beautiful views of the bay.

Evening: Enjoy a dinner at “The Bark & Brew” which offers a pet‑friendly patio and local cuisine. End the trip with a night‑time walk along the harbor, watching the city lights reflect on the water before returning to your hotel.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Calabogie Provincial Park – 2 hours – $5 (parking)
• Calabogie Lake – 1 hour – Free
• Mattawa Café (Lunch) – 1.5 hours – $25
• Stirling Waterfall Lookout – 0.5 hour – Free
• North Bay Inn (2 nights) – 2 nights – $140
• The Harbour House (Dinner) – 1.5 hours – $30
• North Bay Waterfront Trail – 2 hours – Free
• Discovery North Museum – 1.5 hours – $10
• North Bay Marina Boat Tour – 1 hour – $20
• Dog‑friendly Café (River Roasters) – 1 hour – $15
• Pet‑friendly Parking – 1 hour – $5
• Pet‑Friendly Hotel (North Bay Inn) – 2 nights – $140
• Restaurant “The Bark & Brew” (Dinner) – 1.5 hours – $30
Total estimated cost: $460

Tips

If you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a day to explore the nearby Algonquin Provincial Park for additional dog‑friendly hikes and wildlife spotting. To shorten the itinerary, skip the boat tour and combine the morning coffee stop with the lunch stop in Mattawa, allowing for a quicker drive and more time at the waterfront trail.