Exploring Ontario's Fall Foliage on Two Wheels

This article was written by Martin Lortz

Each year, from late September into October, Ontario's northern landscape transforms into a tapestry of vivid reds, oranges, and yellows as autumn takes over. There's no better way to experience this splendor than from the seat of a motorcycle or, better yet, an adventure motorcycle.

You didn't have to do much convincing to get us to pack our bags and fire up the engines for a four-day tour from Toronto to Northern Ontario. The plan is to enjoy some leaf peeping and experience some of the best paved and dirt roads Ontario offers. Our 1700-kilometer plan will sample some of the best parts of Ontario's established moto touring loop, such as the Georgian Bay Coastal Route, Algoma's Deer Trail Tour, Ontario's version of the Tail Of The Dragon, as well as a few of Muskoka's best roads.

It should be fun; let's do this.

Day One: Toronto to Tobermory, Then On to Manitoulin Island

Start the journey bright and early from Toronto, heading north on the open road towards Tobermory. The crisp fall air fills you with anticipation as the cityscape fades away, replaced by Ontario's rugged, beautiful terrain. Pockets of vibrant maple and oak trees along the way serve as appetizers.

The ride to Tobermory is a treat, with winding roads keeping things interesting as you pass through small towns and scenic spots. As usual, things take longer than expected as we venture off the direct path to explore along some gravel roads.

We arrive in Tobermory with 30 minutes to spare before it's time to board the Chi-Cheemaun ferry, which will take us to Manitoulin Island, the world's largest freshwater island.

"Do you have a reservation for the ferry?"

"No."

There is something so freeing about getting on your bike and heading out for a few days, with the only plan being to ride. Food, gas, and accommodations will all be dealt with as needed. That said, this kind of freedom comes much easier in October. During the busy summer season, a ferry reservation is highly recommended.

We take our place in the standby line for a few minutes before being waved onto the ferry, rebels, lol.

The two-and-a-half-hour ferry ride is a highlight, offering grand views of Georgian Bay and the changing leaves along the coastline. Once on Manitoulin, we make our way to the popular Bridal Veil Falls near Kagawong. A short, easy walk reveals a stunning waterfall that feels almost magical, framed by autumn colors and salmon splashing in the pool below the falls.

As the sun dips lower in the sky, we arrive in Little Current, a welcoming town with great spots to wind down after a long ride. We stop by Manitoulin Brewing, grab a couple of local craft beers to go, then head over to Elliott's Restaurant for a well-earned meal before dropping our bags at Manitoulin Motel for the night.

Day Two: Manitoulin Island to Iron Bridge, the Long Way

After a good night's rest, we begin our second day by crossing the historic Swing Bridge in Little Current. This unique one-lane swing bridge is an iconic landmark of Manitoulin Island, opening every hour to allow boats to pass through. Once we cross the bridge, we follow Highway 6 north as it twists and turns through the stunning white quartzite wall of the La Cloche Mountain range.

When it's time to get off the beaten path, Fox Lake Road offers a chance for some adventure as the single-lane dirt path submerges us in the colorful forest. We pop out onto Lee Valley Road, skirt the town of Massey, and follow more gravel along the Spanish River before turning onto Highway 17, the Deer Trail Touring Loop and eventually Elliot Lake.

We stop in Elliot Lake for lunch at Tim Hortons, top up the gas tanks, and make our way uphill to the Elliot Lake Fire Tower Lookout. This high vantage point provides a sweeping view of the surrounding area, which offers the full spectrum of fall colors stretching across the landscape. The best part is that you can ride your motorcycle to the edge.

It's time for some more backcountry adventure as we make our way toward Blackcreek Outfitters, a popular spot for outdoor adventurers and local advice. According to Google Maps, we can't get there from here, but thanks to some local knowledge and the BackRoads Maps App, we prove Google wrong as we pop out of the bush at Blackcreek Outfitters an hour or so later.

After a coffee and some chit-chat, it is time for Algoma's version of the Tail Of The Dragon, aka Highway 129. Although not as twisty as the USA version, the next 100 or so kilometers keep us smiling as we snake our way between a river and a rock wall.

Our day wraps up in Iron Bridge, where we spend night number two at the rustic Red Top Motor Inn.

Day Three: Iron Bridge to North Bay

On day three, the journey continues as we head east toward North Bay. We start early, travelling along gravel roads and crossing the historic Dean Lake Bridge as the first rays of the morning sun cast shadows across the river below. Following Highway 17, we arrive at Blind River for our second trip stop at Tim Hortons, this time for breakfast.

Instead of taking the direct route, we detour north at Massey, navigating a hundred kilometers of gravel and dirt roads. Another detour onto Trout Lake Road rewards us with a long stretch filled with twists and turns on more dirt and gravel.

Dark storm clouds and rain toy with us all day, and a constant cold crosswind chills us to the bone. We follow the north shore of Lake Nipissing and finally park our bikes for the day in North Bay at the Best Western Hotel.

Day Four: The Scenic Route Back via Old Nipissing Road and Southwood Road

As the journey winds down, the final day takes us along Old Nipissing Road, a historic route that once served as a pioneer road and is now a famous trail for adventurers. This section feels like a step back in time, with rustic barns, old homesteads, and untouched natural beauty. Riding through the open countryside under a canopy of fall colors is an experience you'll remember long after the trip ends.

Back on the pavement, we tick off a couple of fun, twisty Muskoka roads before stopping for lunch in Bala at the Hook and Ladder, a cozy eatery known for hearty meals perfect for a midday break.

From there, the final hurrah of the trip is along Southwood Road, another scenic road loved for its winding turns and beautiful surroundings.

As we turn south onto Highway 11, Toronto and home are still at least an hour and a half away. This last leg of the journey gives you time to reflect on the past few days' incredible landscapes, charming towns, and memorable experiences.

In the fall, Northern Ontario transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, and there's no better way to see it than from a motorcycle seat.

Few things compare to the freedom of the open road for motorcyclists, especially when that road is lined with some of the country's most stunning fall foliage.

So, gear up, hit the road, and let Northern Ontario's autumn splendor take your breath away.

NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Destination Ontario