Explore Northwestern Ontario: A 6-Day Road Trip for Nature Lovers and Foodies

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Thunder Bay, Canada on August 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hoito

Start your day with a delicious Finnish breakfast, including their famous pancakes and coffee in this beloved local spot.
Head to The Hoito, located in the heart of Thunder Bay.
CAD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fort William Historical Park

Explore the largest living history site in Canada, which represents a 19th-century fur trade post.
Drive approximately 15 minutes to Fort William Historical Park.
CAD18, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar

Indulge in a hearty meal at this delicious steakhouse with a dog-friendly patio.
Drive 10 minutes southeast from Fort William to The Keg.
CAD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hiking at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Enjoy an afternoon hike with your dog, taking in breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
Drive approx. 30 minutes to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
CAD10, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check into dog-friendly accommodation

Settle into the charming Lakehead University Guesthouse which welcomes pets.
Head back to Thunder Bay, about 30 minutes.
CAD100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cassidy's Restaurant

Enjoy fresh local ingredients, with plenty of options to please every palate, all in a casual atmosphere.
A short 5 minute drive from your accommodation.
CAD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Waterfalls and Nature

Kakabeka Falls, Canada on August 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dutch Bakery

Enjoy wholesome breakfast options at this local favorite, especially their homemade pastries.
The drive is 20 minutes from the guesthouse.
CAD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kakabeka Falls

Marvel at the stunning Kakabeka Falls, the second highest waterfall in Ontario.
A short drive of about 30 minutes northeast from Thunder Bay.
CAD8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kakabeka Falls Restaurant

Refuel with a view at this quaint spot with delicious sandwiches and comforting meals.
Located next to the falls.
CAD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the trails at Kakabeka Falls

Take a scenic hike through the park, experiencing the beauty of nature with your dog.
Start from the visitor center.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Drive to Atikokan

Enjoy a scenic drive to Atikokan, known as the Canoeing Capital of Canada.
Travel west for about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check into dog-friendly accommodation

Settle into the Atikokan Hotel which is pet-friendly.
Located in the center of Atikokan.
CAD90, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Atikokan Family Restaurant

End your day with hearty comfort food at this welcoming local eatery.
A 5-minute drive from your hotel.
CAD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Canoeing Adventures

Quetico Provincial Park, Canada on August 11, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at the hotel before embarking on your adventure.
Breakfast served on-site.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Quetico Provincial Park

Get ready to experience the amazing wilderness of Quetico Provincial Park, a dog-friendly park bursting with activities.
A short drive 30 minutes southwest of Atikokan.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canoeing in Quetico

Rent a canoe and paddle on the serene waters of Quetico, a paradise for outdoor lovers and their pets.
Rentals are available at the park entrance.
CAD40, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch picnic at Quetico

Pack a picnic with local cheeses, meats, and fresh bread, enjoying the views while your dog explores.
Use a picnic spot near the water.
CAD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the trails

Explore the trails of Quetico, taking in the natural beauty and ensuring your dog joins the fun!
Choose from designated dog-friendly trails.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Atikokan

Drive back to Atikokan after a day filled with adventure.
Head back for 30 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Smokin’ Hot BBQ

Savor flavorful smoked meats and vegetarian options at this laid-back BBQ joint.
A 5-minute drive from your hotel.
CAD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature Discovery

Fort Frances, Canada on August 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Cabin

Start your day with aromatic coffee and pastries at this cozy café.
The drive is about 30 minutes to Fort Frances.
CAD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fort Frances Museum

Explore local history and the fascinating culture of this waterfront town.
Located on the main street of Fort Frances.
CAD5, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Rainy Lake

Take a stroll along the waterfront or a swim with your dog and enjoy the scenery.
Head to the waterfront park.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Buster's Bar & Grill

Feast on pub favorites with a view of the lake in a welcoming atmosphere.
A short drive over to Buster's.
CAD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit La Place Rendez-Vous

Check out this local bakery and grab some treats for the road.
Drive a short distance to the bakery.
CAD10, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Drive to Rainy Lake

Continue your adventure at the stunning Rainy Lake, famous for its beauty and recreational activities.
A short 30-minute drive from Fort Frances.
Free, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Kayaking on Rainy Lake

Rent a kayak and paddle through the beautiful waters with your dog by your side.
Kayak rentals are available at the lake.
CAD30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into dog-friendly accommodation

Stay at the Rainy Lake Houseboats which welcome pets.
By the lake.
CAD150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cove

A lakeside eatery serving up twists on classic dishes made with local ingredients.
A short drive from your accommodation.
CAD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Relax and Unwind

Rainy Lake, Canada on August 13, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Cove

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local specialties at the lakeside restaurant.
Enjoy breakfast on-site.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax along the lakeshore

Spend a peaceful morning at Rainbow Beach, a dog-friendly spot.
Take a short walk to the nearby beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Rainy Lake Grill

Fuel up with hearty meals like burgers and salads at this casual diner.
Just a five-minute drive away.
CAD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Fishing on Rainy Lake

Cast a line and enjoy fishing with views on Rainy Lake, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Fishing gear is available for rent nearby.
CAD40, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cove

Treat yourself one last time with a delightful dinner at this lovely establishment.
A short walk from your accommodation.
CAD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Departure & Fond Farewells

Thunder Bay, Canada on August 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rainy Lake Houseboats

Enjoy your final breakfast surrounded by nature in your cozy accommodation.
Breakfast served on-site.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pack up & Check Out

Get ready for your departure from the beautiful Rainy Lake.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive back to Thunder Bay

Travel back towards Thunder Bay, retracing your scenic route.
Approx. 1.5 hours drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Terry Fox Monument

Pay tribute at this significant monument dedicated to Canadian hero Terry Fox.
Located just off the highway in Thunder Bay.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Red Lobster

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch before your journey ends.
Drive 10 minutes from the monument.
CAD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Northwestern Ontario, taking memories of your adventure with you.
Head to the airport or your next destination.
Free, Free
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