Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cambridge, Ontario to Dryden, Ontario
Cambridge, Ontario to Dryden, Ontario is a long yet fruitful journey marked with scenic vistas and serene spots. While the trip covers over 1200 kilometers, the halfway point at Wawa is a great place to grab a snack and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Superior. From there, the trip northward takes on a life of its own, leaving travelers with a variety of things to see and experience. In this article, we explore the top five things to do on a road trip from Cambridge, Ontario to Dryden, Ontario.
Visit Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
There is no better way to experience the beauty of northern Ontario than a trek through Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, the park is known for its namesake sleeping giant formation, a 250-meter high, 8-kilometer-long cliff. It also boasts 100 kilometers of trails meandering through rocky terrain and dense forests, making it an ideal location for hiking and camping enthusiasts.
Fun fact: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park was closed in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Explore Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park
Located about an hour away from Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park is another rare natural wonder in northern Ontario. A 100-meter deep canyon that stretches over 2 kilometers, Ouimet Canyon's vertical cliffs of sheer rock are home to rare arctic plants and animals. Visitors can take on the challenge of a 2.5-kilometer trek on a suspended boardwalk or a more adventurous hike along the canyon floor.
Fun fact: Ouimet Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in Ontario and is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the North."
Experience Quetico Provincial Park
Quetico Provincial Park is a vast wilderness preserve and canoe tripping destination in Ontario. The park's scenic waterways, untouched forests, and diverse wildlife make it a much sought-after spot for camping, fishing, and canoeing. It is a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature's serenity.
Fun fact: The park has over 600 pristine lakes and more than 2000 backcountry campsites, making it a paradise for campers and adventurers.
Discover Kakabeka Falls
Considered the crown jewel of northwestern Ontario's waterfalls, Kakabeka Falls is a spectacular waterfall that drops 40 meters into a gorge below. The site has an array of walkways, trails, and viewing platforms, allowing visitors to enjoy the falls from different angles. With day-use facilities like a picnic shelter and a playground, Kakabeka Falls is a family-friendly destination.
Fun fact: Kakabeka Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Northern Ontario.
Visit the Wabakimi Provincial Park
Well-known for its backcountry paddling and fishing opportunities, Wabakimi Provincial Park is a must-visit destination for naturalists. With over 1,300 kilometers of canoe routes, Wabakimi is Canada's second-largest wilderness park, boasting vast boreal forests, granite cliffs, and secluded lakes. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife from beavers to eagles, moose to wolves, making it an ideal wildlife-watching spot.
Fun fact: Wabakimi Provincial Park is Ontario's second-largest park, covering an area of over 8,920 km².
Conclusion
Driving from Cambridge, Ontario to Dryden, Ontario, with stops at some of the most stunning natural spots in Ontario, can take upwards of 14 hours. However, for travelers who adore scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and natural wonders, the journey will feel nothing but fulfilling. From the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park to the Wabakimi Provincial Park, each of the destinations offers a unique experience. After experiencing the beautiful spots along the route, one cannot help but conclude that a road trip through northern Ontario is indescribably magical.