Algoma Country
Algoma Country lives up to its reputation as one of the best places to hunt and fish in Ontario, and then some. This region delivers true wilderness adventure.
With an area of over 70,000 square km located on two Great Lakes, Algoma’s rugged and sweeping terrain treats avid outdoor enthusiasts to endless motorcycling, ATVing, snowmobiling, RVing, hiking, canoeing and paddling.
Nature lovers, artists and photographers are drawn to the dramatic landscapes that fascinated The Group of Seven a century ago.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Algoma Country, scroll down or visit the region's tourism website.
Where is Algoma Country?
Algoma Country is located in the centre of Northern Ontario and is framed by Lake Superior on the west and Lake Huron to the south. Sault Ste. Marie is Algoma's largest urban community and the gateway to Algoma.
You can fly into Sault Ste. Marie (IATA: YAM, ICAO: CYAM)or hop a bus to Algoma.
The famed Highway 17, also known as the Trans-Canada Highway, cuts directly through Algoma Country. From Thunder Bay in the North, it hugs the shore of Lake Superior to Sault Ste. Marie before continuing on east to Sudbury. From the United States, cross the border from Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, via the International Bridge.
Things to Do in Algoma Country
Algoma is a destination for every season. Enjoy outdoor pursuits like hiking, paddling and touring in the warm summer months. The autumn season welcomes a kaleidoscope of vibrant fall colours. In the winter, traverse the sparkling forests and lakes by snowmobile or snowshoe.
From remote fly-in fishing outposts to ice fishing huts, angling is a year round sport, and Algoma’s coastal waters and inland lakes are home to walleye, northern pike, bass, brook and lake trout, salmon and steelhead.
Whether you’re interested in cycling or motorcycling, RVing or ATVing, tour this region your way. Algoma’s open roads and scenic winding routes are a delight for motorcyclists. Ride the celebrated Grand Algoma Tour along the meandering and twisty roads of Highway 129, also known as ‘Ontario’s Tail of the Dragon’.
Experience first-hand the region that influenced some of the most memorable Canadian art. View the vistas that inspired their art along the Group of Seven Touring Route. Treat yourself to a touch of luxury aboard the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, a gorgeous rail excursion into Algoma’s wilderness.
With over 2,000 km of groomed trails, there’s a lot of territory to cover on a snowmobile trip in Algoma.
Hike extensive trail systems in Lake Superior Provincial Park that lead to scenic lookouts, windswept beaches and gorgeous waterfalls. Or explore the rugged beauty of the Lake Superior’s coastline by sea kayak.
South of Sault Ste. Marie, St. Joseph Island lies in the northwest corner of Lake Huron and is an excellent cycling destination. Follow the 68 km loop along scenic country roads.
If shredding the slopes is your thing, Searchmont Resort offers a 213 metre vertical drop. For amazing cross-country ski trails, check out Stokely Creek in Goulais River or Hiawatha Highlands in Sault Ste. Marie.
What You Should Know About Visiting Algoma Country
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Algoma Country, it’s nice to learn what the locals know.
Useful tip
Cell service can be very unpredictable in some rural areas, so it is a good idea to come prepared with a hardcopy of your Ontario road map and area guide.
Where to get a great cup of coffee
Copper Bean Café is located on Hwy 17 in Bruce Mines is a local favourite for a cup of java and a delicious snack.
Hidden gem
Old Woman Bay in Lake Superior Provincial Park is a beautiful sandy beach area with mesmerizing sunsets. It got its name because looking towards the horizon, a face of the old woman can be seen within the 200 metre cliffs.
Little-known fact
Agawa Rock Pictographs is a sacred site located on Lake Superior, where generations of Ojibwe people recorded their visions, dreams and events. A 0.5 km loop hike leads you to view the red ochre paintings.
Where to snap a great Instagram pic
The Lookout Trail in the Agawa Canyon is a stop along the famous Agawa Canyon Tour Train. Climb over 300 stairs from the trail to breathtaking views.
Great place to see the fall colours
Algoma Country is blessed by Mother Nature’s paintbrush each fall. A drive up Highway 17N to Wawa, a tour of Sylvan Valley or a drive around St. Joseph Island is truly captivating.
Where to enjoy maple syrup
In the spring, visit Gilbertson’s Pancake House on St. Joseph’s Island for the annual ‘gold rush’ tradition of free-flowing maple syrup and pancakes. Afterwards, take a walk along a trail through a sugar bush and enjoy a northern Ontario sunset.
Don’t forget to pack
Bug spray, sunscreen, hiking/running shoes, jacket, gloves, swimsuit, maps, snacks, lip balm and umbrella. And if you’re going when it’s chilly, don’t forget your toque (knitted winter cap). Most importantly, pack your camera to capture Algoma’s stunning views.
Last updated: November 25, 2022