Northwest Ontario
Ontario’s largest region offers wilderness adventure at its finest including ultimate freshwater fishing, hunting, backcountry paddling, camping, hiking and wildlife viewing.
Angling is so popular in this region, there’s even a museum dedicated to it: the Northern Ontario Sportfishing Centre in Sioux Narrows—the only facility of its kind in the world.
In addition to the great outdoors, immerse yourself in history and culture with a number of museums and galleries to explore, such as the MUSE in Kenora and Thunder Bay Art Gallery.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Where is Northwest Ontario?
Northwest Ontario stretches from the Minnesota border and north shore of Lake Superior, west to Manitoba and north to the saltwater shoreline of Hudson Bay.
To the west, Kenora sits on the edge of Lake of the Woods, while to the southeast, Thunder Bay lies on Lake Superior’s north shore.
The region is best explored by car or motorcycle, although regularly scheduled flights operate out of Thunder Bay International Airport. For remote locations such as outpost camps, there are boat-in, fly-in and rail-in options.
Things to do in Northwest Ontario
Epic fishing
You’ll find countless opportunities to fish for walleye, bass, pike, muskie, perch, crappie, whitefish and trout on one of the hundreds of thousands of freshwater lakes and rivers.
Reach thrilling heights
Superior country is home to exciting rock and ice climbing sites and the chance to cross the Eagle Canyon suspension bridge.
Unique nature viewing
Get a glimpse of a majestic bald eagle on Lake of the Woods aboard the MS Kenora or the awesome spectacle of the Northern Lights whirling across a starry sky.
Explore the waterways
Northwest Ontario is home to thousands of freshwater rivers and lakes, as well as stunning waterfalls. Don’t miss the beauty of Kakabeka Falls (the Niagara of the North).
Immerse yourself in history
Visit Thunder Bay’s Fort William Historical Park, a living reconstructed heritage site or Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre showcasing important Ojibwe history and culture.
Camping adventure
Find a variety of great camping locations like Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park or Blue Lake Provincial Park and unparalleled backcountry camping in Quetico Provincial Park.
Cities and towns in Northwestern Ontario
Discover cities, towns and other destinations within this region.
Points of interest in Northwestern Ontario
Add these highlights to your next visit to the region.
Last updated: April 7, 2025