A Road Trip to Remember: From City of Cold Lake, Alberta to Quinte West, Ontario
Traveling across the vast expanse of Canada is an adventure that promises to be full of highs and lows as travelers make their way from the City of Cold Lake, Alberta to Quinte West, Ontario. While it could take visitors over 30 hours, this road trip offers breathtaking views, charming small towns, and a chance to experience Canada's diverse natural beauty.
The halfway point of this trip is Monticello, MN - known for being home to the largest toy store in the world, Toyland. This is a must-stop destination for any traveler looking for unique and nostalgic gifts.
Top 5 Things to Do on the Road Trip:
1. Stopover in Winnipeg
Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, has plenty of interesting sites to visit that could make for a full-day stopover destination. Visitors could experience the Canadian Museum for Human Rights or take a stroll on The Forks, where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. Not to forget, Winnipeg is home to numerous lovely ice cream shops and a must-see historic site, the Fort Gary Horse Museum.
Fun fact: Winnipeg has a lilac festival that takes place annually, and the lilacs, which are in full bloom each spring, fill the city's air with a beautiful, distinct scent.
2. Explore the Beautiful Landscapes at Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay, Ontario, is located on the north shore of Lake Superior, and it possesses awe-inspiring natural landscapes that will charm visitors. The city offers many outdoor activities, such as the Fort William Historical Park, which offers insight into the life of a fur trader in the late 18th century. Another exciting place to visit is the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, home to the majestic Kakabeka Falls that spill water from a height of 40 meters.
Fun fact: Thunder Bay is one of the only cities in North America that sits directly over an Amethyst mine.
3. Stop by the bustling city of Toronto
A trip to Canada's largest city, Toronto, is one not to be missed. Visitors could take a ferry ride to the islands, visit the CN Tower, or enjoy a day at the Canadian National Exhibition, held annually in June. Other places that visitors could experience during their time in Toronto include the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, and Distillery District.
Fun fact: Toronto is known as the 'city of neighbourhoods' as it boasts of over 140 diverse neighborhoods that represent cultures from all over the world.
4. Discover the UNESCO world heritage site, Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands is a gem in Ontario's crown and is a must-see stopover for road-trippers. Located along the US-Canada border on the Saint Lawrence River, the island region is home to over 1,800 islands, each with something unique to offer, including fishing, boating, and bird watching. Visitors could take a cruise to explore one of the magical islands or head to the Kingston Penitentiary to learn about the prison's 181 years of history.
Fun fact: During the Gatsby era of the 1920s, Thousand Islands' houses became a popular location for elite parties, and George Boldt, a millionaire, is said to have erected a castle for his wife.
5. Get Fossiling at Marmora
Marmora is a picturesque small town located along the Crowe River and home to one of the best parks for fossil hunting in Canada, the Marmora Mine. Visitors could explore and uncover the mystery of the Devonian period's sea creatures, as well as experience some fishing and water sports in the area. Other places to see in the area include the Hassen's Wool Carding Mill, the Crowe River Dam and Hastings Heritage Trail.
Fun fact: The famed Canadian actor, Avan Jogia, spent his early years in Marmora before moving to Vancouver.
In conclusion, taking this road trip from City of Cold Lake, Alberta to Quinte West, Ontario, offers visitors a wholesome experience of Canada's diverse culture, beautiful nature, and historic sites. While the trip from Alberta to Ontario could take over thirty hours, it is dotted with stopovers that have something to offer every traveler. From Winnipeg to Toronto, Thunder Bay to Marmora, and the Thousand Islands, each location provides exciting things to see and do. With this road trip plan, you get to witness some of Canada's best-hidden gems and experience the vastness of the country.