If you’re looking for a destination that combines breathtaking Lake Superior scenery, unforgettable outdoor adventures, welcoming accommodations, and plenty of opportunities to relax, Terrace Bay deserves a spot on your travel plans. This quaint, friendly North Shore community offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

 

 

 

Stay Where Comfort Meets Convenience

For a small town, there’s a lot to pack into a day in Terrace Bay. There’s no need to rush. Stay a few nights and play a little longer.

Drifters Motel and Restaurant has earned a reputation for providing visitors with exceptionally clean, comfortable accommodations and warm Northern hospitality. Guests consistently appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent home base for visitors. Conveniently located in downtown Terrace Bay, Drifters places visitors within easy walking distance of local shopping, the popular Slate Islands Brewing Company, the Lighthouse lookout, and other community amenities and attractions. Even better, the on-site restaurant makes it easy to enjoy a satisfying breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventures or a bright summer salad after spending long, fun day outdoors.

The Red Dog Inn offers another excellent accommodation option for visitors looking for comfort, convenience, and friendly service. Known for its spotless rooms and welcoming hosts, the inn provides a relaxing place to recharge after a day of sightseeing or outdoor adventure. Like Drifters, it’s located downtown making it easy to enjoy Terrace Bay without needing to drive too far, or at all!  Comfortable accommodations, attentive service, and easy access to many of the community’s attractions make the Red Dog Inn a favourite choice for travellers exploring the North Shore.

 

 

Discover One of Ontario’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

No visit to Terrace Bay is complete without a visit to the spectacular Aguasabon Falls and Gorge. The name “Aguasabon” is derived from the Ojibwe word “agoshkabun,” which means “river with rocks”.  These stunning falls cascade down a 100-foot gorge along a 2.6-billion-year-old rock face carved by glacial movement and erosion.

Nothing is a far drive when you are enjoying the attractions in Terrace Bay. The falls and gorge are no exception. The entrance is at the western entrance to town, and just a few minutes drive from your motel. There is ample parking, which is free of course, and it’s a short, pleasant walk on the boardwalk to a viewing platform that provides a fantastic vantage point of the yawning canyon and roaring water.

 

 

Unwind at Terrace Bay Beach

One of Terrace Bay’s greatest surprises is its stunning beach. Reminiscent of something you might see on the Jersey Shore not in Northwestern Ontario, the beach stretches along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior, Terrace Bay Beach features an expansive sandy shoreline that’s perfect for families, picnickers, paddlers, and anyone looking to chill out.

Unlike many Lake Superior beaches, there’s plenty of room to spread out, build sandcastles, play some beach volleyball, or simply relax while listening to the waves. On warm summer days, adventurous swimmers can cool off in the refreshing waters, while others may prefer a walk in the water while enjoying the spectacular scenery.

Accessibility is a priority here. A bright blue (so you can’t miss it!) accessible beach mat extends onto the sand, allowing those using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to dip a toe in the water and experience Lake Superior’s shoreline in a way that might otherwise not be possible. It’s a thoughtful feature that helps ensure this incredible beach can be enjoyed by more visitors. Dogs are welcome here too, which is a plus if you are traveling with a furry family member. A boardwalk from the huge parking lot leads visitors toward the beach, making it easier for everyone to enjoy this beautiful waterfront. At the far end of the boardwalk, follow the well signed trail to a spectacular look-off that can be taken in while relaxing in the iconic Parks Canada Red Chairs.

 

 

Explore with Parks Canada

Speaking of Parks Canada, Terrace Bay is in the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area (LSNMCA), on of the largest freshwater conservation areas in the world. The beach pavilion houses a small but well-stocked gift shop where friendly Parks Canada staff are happy to answer questions about the LSNMCA, recommend attractions, and help visitors discover even more reasons to explore Terrace Bay and the surrounding region.

The gift shop offers a wonderful selection of souvenirs, books, apparel, locally inspired gifts, and Parks Canada merchandise. It’s also the perfect place to grab a frozen treat before heading back to the beach or setting out on your next adventure.

Visitors looking to experience Lake Superior from a completely different perspective can also join one of Parks Canada’s guided kayaking experiences, which can be booked at the gift shop, online or by calling (807) 887-5467.

A Paddle Through Time invites participants to explore the coastline while learning about the rich cultural and natural history of the LSNMCA. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share stories about Indigenous history, early voyageurs, the unique geology of the shoreline, and the incredible ecosystem that makes this part of Canada so special.

For those seeking even more adventure, Over Rocks & Ripples offers another unforgettable guided paddle. This experience explores the fascinating coastal landscape where ancient rock formations, sheltered bays, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior create an ever-changing paddling experience. It’s an excellent opportunity for beginners and experienced paddlers alike to safely enjoy one of the world’s greatest freshwater lakes with experienced Parks Canada interpreters leading the way.

Both guided on-water experiences allow visitors to discover parts of the coastline that simply can’t be appreciated from land.

 

 

Enjoy a Superior Picnic

Few meals are more memorable than one enjoyed lakeside, and the Superior Picnics program makes it wonderfully easy.

Superior Picnic spots are accessible picnic tables located at various breathtaking locations along the Canadian north shore of Lake Superior. In Terrace Bay, the Superior Picnics table is located at a more secluded area at the far end of the Terrace Bay Beach. Simply call to order a takeout meal from your favourite local restaurant, pick it up, and enjoy it at Superior Picnics spot. Enjoying delicious, locally prepared meal, people watching and listening to the waves roll in from the largest freshwater lake in the world is an incredible culinary experience to check off your bucket list.

 

Tee Off Surrounded by Nature

If you are a golfer and want to explore more of what regional courses have to offer, pack up the clubs and check out the Aguasabon Golf Club in Terrace Bay. This scenic nine-hole course winds through beautiful boreal forest, offering a fun and surprisingly challenging round for players of every skill level. Mature trees, rolling terrain, and well-maintained fairways create a course that’s both enjoyable and rewarding, while the peaceful surroundings make every round feel like a retreat into nature.

After your game, relax in the clubhouse and enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing beverage from the Makwa Grill while overlooking the course. Whether you’ve played nine holes or simply stopped in for lunch, the friendly atmosphere and excellent food make it a favourite gathering place for visitors and locals alike.

 

 

Explore. Relax. Repeat.

One of Terrace Bay’s greatest strengths is how easily everything comes together. You can begin your morning watching the sunrise over Lake Superior, spend the afternoon kayaking with Parks Canada, enjoy a leisurely picnic on the beach, tee off for a round of golf, browse local shops, and finish the evening with dinner and a locally crafted beer brewed with water sourced from the big lake herself. Without all the driving, and zero parking or attraction fees.

The community’s welcoming atmosphere encourages visitors to slow down and truly enjoy everything the area has to offer. Instead of simply driving through, Terrace Bay invites you to linger a little longer, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories along one of Canada’s most spectacular coastlines.

The next time your travels bring you to Lake Superior’s North Shore, make Terrace Bay more than just a quick stop for gas and a coffee. Spend a little extra time exploring the waterfalls, paddling the shoreline, relaxing on the beach, enjoying great food, discovering local businesses, and experiencing the warm hospitality that makes this community such a memorable place to stay and play.

 

Whether you’re wrapping up a round of golf, visiting Terrace Bay Beach, or simply looking for a great place to enjoy a delicious meal, the Makwa Grill at the Aguasabon Golf Course is quickly becoming one of Terrace Bay’s newest must-visit dining spots.

Located upstairs the clubhouse at the scenic Aguasabon Golf Course, Makwa Grill offers a welcoming atmosphere where both golfers and the public can enjoy fresh made, satisfying meals at affordable prices. With beautiful views overlooking the course and Lake Superior nearby, it’s the perfect place to relax with family and friends.

The menu features a variety of crowd-pleasing favourites, including homemade soups, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, appetizers, and comforting classics. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or dinner, there’s something for everyone. The team also has plans to continue expanding the menu, offering even more delicious options in the future. Be sure to follow Makwa Grill on Facebook to keep up with their daily specials and features.

While the restaurant is located at the golf course, everyone is welcome! You don’t need to play a round of golf to enjoy a great meal. Locals, visitors, families, and travellers are all invited to stop by, experience the friendly hospitality, and discover one of Terrace Bay’s newest places to eat.

If you’re exploring Terrace Bay or spending the day at the Aguasabon Golf Course, make Makwa Grill part of your visit. Great food, welcoming service, affordable prices, and exciting plans for the future make this new restaurant a welcome addition to Terrace Bay’s dining scene.

TERRACE BAY DRAGFEST 2026: July 31 – Aug 2

 

There’s no doubt that the north shore of Lake Superior provides some of the most spectacular scenery and great outdoors that Mother Nature can provide, But in the middle of all this nature there’s a surprise: an annual supercharged car racing event!  Terrace Bay is host to one of the biggest motorsports events in Northern Ontario: Dragfest!  Presented by Superior Classics Car Club, the event has established an excellent reputation for serious drag racing, coupled with equally serious camaraderie. If your interests include high-octane entertainment you will surely enjoy this event.

Terrace Bay Dragfest takes place only one weekend of the year, the August long weekend.  All action is at the Terrace Bay Airport just a few miles east of the Township of Terrace Bay.  Parking is free, admission is affordable.  There is also limited on-site camping, and more campground facilities close to Terrace Bay.

 

 

How Does the Dragfest Work?

If you’re new to the world of drag racing, here’s how it works:  two cars (or motorcycles) line up on a strip of asphalt, and on the signal, race each other to the finish line a quarter mile away.  The first to finish wins!  Sounds simple, right?  Well, like many things in life it has been made more complicated, at least for the competitors.  For example, at Dragfest there are three competition classes, based on vehicle performance.  To make the event more open to various cars, within each class slower cars are given a head-start over the faster cars.  And so, ideally, the two cars will arrive at the finish line at exactly the same moment… which, of course, never happens.

Prior to the start you will see many of the vehicles prepare their tires by spinning them fiercely in the “burnout box”.  This generates much tire smoke, and it certainly keeps the black flies at bay.  Then, on the signal from the starter, they proceed towards the starting line.  The starting area is controlled by a set of count-down lights, called a “Christmas Tree”.  The top lights measure how close to the starting line you are; cross the line and you are disqualified.  When both cars are lined up the Christmas tree counts down to the green “Go!” light, with the countdowns offset by the slower car head-start mentioned earlier.  Then off they go, as fast as possible, to the finish line a quarter mile away.

 

 

The cars then slow and return to the pits via a return road running parallel to the airport runway.  There, each participant gets a printed slip (“time slip”) showing detailed times for their run, timed to one-thousandth of a second.  Based on the details on the time slip the competitor may adjust the vehicle or their driving style.  And the winner continues to race, the loser does not!

Dragfest takes place over three days, only once per year on the August long weekend.  On Friday and Saturday almost all of the racing is spent on practicing, or “Test ‘n Tune”.  Nevertheless, the racing is as intense as ever, but the “losers” get to continue racing.  On Sunday, however, eliminations take place until there is only one outright winner in each class.  Trophies and cash prizes are presented at the end of the day, and most racers gather to applaud the accomplishments of the winners.

 

 

It’s Not Just for Racers

Dragfest is one of the biggest motorsports events between the prairies and Southern Ontario. Typically, there are about 200 competitors and, over the weekend, several thousand spectators.  One of the things that makes it unique is that the pits are open to the spectators; if you want to see what the car owners have done to their cars to make them go fast, a friendly conversation is just a “Hello” away.  Unless their race is coming up; then everything turns serious!

Of course, when the racing is taking place, you will want to be in the grandstands immediately adjacent to the starting line to see the action.  From there you can also see the state-of-the-art electronic scoreboard that displays the racing times and speeds.

 

 

To put things in perspective, a typical family car would cover the quarter mile in about 18 seconds and finish at about 80 mph.  In contrast, most cars at Dragfest take about 12 seconds, and finish at about 130 mph, and the very fast ones may take only 7 seconds at nearly 200 mph!  Rapid Transit indeed!

On top of the “normal” racing there is always a “special attraction”.  In 2025, (and expected in 2026) it was a jet-engined drag car, named “Sonic Assassin”.  With flames 50 feet or more behind the car, and an ear-piercing roar it raced towards its near 200 mph finishing speed. Lots of “Wows!” from the crowd.

Food stands, offering a variety of dishes from the usual burgers and fries to less usual fare, like poutine, Lake Superior fish tacos, and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are part of the scene.  No need to starve!

 

Photo Credit: Richard Main

 

History of the Terrace Bay Dragfest

A little history:  The race is presented by Superior Classics Car Club which was formed almost 30 years ago by Terrace Bay and Schreiber car enthusiasts, mostly muscle car enthusiasts.  It wasn’t long before someone suggested that it would be good to “get our hands on the airport and see what our cars can do!”  And amazingly, the planets aligned, and after a great deal of hard work, Dragfest was born.

In the early years the airport was still a functioning airport, which suspended operation for only a few days to allow the club to set up the barriers and bleachers and myriad of other things to allow the race to happen.  And after the racing, take it all down again.  It was exhausting.

 

Photo Credit: Rob Danielewski

 

After several years the racing became more important than the airplanes, and the airport was shut down as a functioning airport.  This allowed the club to make the facilities permanent, which further enhanced the racing.  An important factor in all of this development was the principle of community and sponsor involvement; even an enthusiastic car club could not have succeeded by itself.  And over the years organizations and businesses have become part of the fabric of the event.  That involvement shows through in the event itself; you will feel it as you walk about and talk to the drivers and pit crews.

Throughout its development the members of Superior Classics Car Club have been adamant that the profits from the race weekend must be returned to regional organizations that benefit the communities.  That translates to organizations like Women’s Shelters, Food Banks, Hospitals, Fire Departments, and Animal Shelters.  Every year, in the fall when the activities have slowed, club members meet the groups that benefit and make formal donations.  To date, those donations have translated to over $500,000 dollars in donations!  It is a heartwarming time.

 

Superior Classics Car Club Volunteers

 

In the early years it was unusual to see women actively involved in the driving.  However, that has changed, and now many women compete.  In fact, in 2025 a woman very nearly won the top racing class in the whole event. If you get bitten by the racing bug and your car is safe, we can accommodate that too.  See the website www.dragfest.ca for necessary details and contacts; they will help facilitate your journey into the exciting world of racing.

 

The Aguasabon Golf Club in Terrace Bay hosts a variety of golf tournaments throughout the season. Tournament information and updates are shared through the Aguasabon Golf Club Facebook Group, so be sure to join to stay informed.

While visiting Terrace Bay for a tournament or a round of golf, make the most of your trip by booking local accommodations, enjoying a meal at Makwa Grill in the clubhouse (open to golfers and the public), and exploring the community’s local shops and attractions.

 

Aguasabon Senior 2-Man – June 23, 2026

Event is full.

 

Aguasabon Masters – July 25-26, 2026

The 28th Annual Aguasabon Masters is one of the most popular Terrace Bay Golf Tournaments! This year it will be held from July 25 to the 26th of 2026.

 

Aguasabon 2 Man – August 15-16, 2026

See Facebook page for sign up information.

 

Aguasabon 3-Man Windup – September 19-20, 2026

See Facebook page for sign up information.

 

Aguasabon Twilights & Scramble – Weekly

Can’t make any of the Terrace Bay Golf Tournaments? No worries! Visit the Pro Shop at the Golf Course during regular operating times to play a round or attend an Aguasabon Twilight/Scramble!

 

 

If you are driving an electric vehicle along Ontario’s scenic north shore, Terrace Bay is the perfect place to stop and recharge both yourself, and your vehicle!

There are two EV charging stations conveniently located right off the Trans-Canada Highway in Terrace Bay:

Find the Tesla Supercharger at 41 Simcoe Plaza, right next to our shopping plaza with plenty of nearby food and shops. There’s even a picnic table by the chargers, ideal for a summer bite or ice cream with the kids from Lighthouse Variety.

 

 

You’ll find the Ivy Charging Station in Drifters 2nd Building Hotel parking lot at 1100 ON-17. This is an easy spot to top up your charge and grab something to eat at Drifters Restaurant.

Terrace Bay is known for its breathtaking views, scenic hiking trails, welcoming community, and must-visit attractions. It’s also a hidden treasure for cycling enthusiasts! Whether you’re looking for a short ride with incredible scenery or a longer adventure along Lake Superior’s shoreline, Terrace Bay has a route for you. Discover the two cycling routes waiting to be explored.

 

The Terrace Bay Lighthouse Run

4.7km (2.9mi) | 1-2 Hours

The Terrace Bay Lighthouse Run is a scenic cycling adventure to the iconic Lighthouse lookout and back, combining natural beauty, picturesque stops, and a taste of local flavour along the way.

Begin your journey at the mouth of the Aguasabon River at Terrace Bay Beach. It’s the perfect spot to stretch and take in the sounds of Lake Superior before you hop on your bike. For an even better view of the falls, take a short hike along the Casque Isles Trail to the bridge lookout before you begin pedalling.

Once you get your bike ready, it’s time to start heading up the beach road past the beautiful Aguasabon Golf Course. The rolling greens and tree-lined fairways provide a scenic backdrop as you climb up the hill towards Highway-17.

When you reach the highway, cross carefully to the Terrace Bay Lighthouse Lookout. Make your way to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Slate Islands. If you have a loonie on hand, pop it into the binoculars for an even closer look at the islands.

After soaking in the views, wrap up your ride with a stop at the Slate Island Brewery on Simcoe Plaza, where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing local brew to celebrate your adventure.

 

The Terrace Bay to Schreiber Beach Tour

38.7km (24mi) | 3-5 Hours

For cyclists looking for a rewarding challenge, the Terrace Bay to Schreiber Beach Tour offers an unforgettable ride along Lake Superior’s North Shore. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning lake views, a breathtaking waterfall, sandy and rocky beaches, and delicious local cuisine.

Kick off your day at Terrace Bay Beach, a perfect spot to get ready for your ride. Take a stroll along the boardwalk to the Red Chairs Trail and enjoy a short hike to the iconic Parks Canada Red Chairs. It’s a great way to warm up before hopping on your bike.

From the beach, start cycling up Beach Road towards Highway 17. Before heading towards Schreiber, treat yourself to a bite at Drifters Restaurant, where you can also take in views of the Terrace Bay Lighthouse.

Once on Highway 17, cross the bridge just beyond Terrace Bay and pause at the must-see Aguasabon Falls and Gorge. A brief boardwalk stroll brings you to a spectacular 100-foot waterfall with incredible views of the lake.

Continue riding toward Schreiber along the paved highway shoulder. The route is hilly, and cyclists should be confident sharing the road with traffic, including trucks. As you pass Hydro Bay, take a moment to enjoy the sweeping views of Lake Superior.

When you arrive in Schreiber, exit the highway at Ontario Street and take some time to explore. Visit the Discovery Center & Railway Museum, stroll Schreiber Beach, and check out the local artwork around town. Be sure to stop by one of the local restaurants to refuel and unwind after your ride.

If you want an excuse to take another long weekend off in August, look no further than Terrace Bay’s fantastic Lighthouse Festival, taking place on Friday, August 16. It’s the 12th year for the festival and organizers are saying that this will be the best one yet so plan to make the scenic drive along the North Shore of Lake Superior to one of the prettiest communities in Northern Ontario. The festival starts at 1 p.m. Friday and ends in the wee hours of Saturday morning. Let the fun and festivities begin!

Celebrating an Icon

 

The focal point for the celebrations is Terrace Bay’s iconic lighthouse, located in the heart of the community. Built in 2011, the Terrace Bay lighthouse stands as a 50 ft. replica of the lighthouse on the Slate Islands Provincial Park which is the highest elevated lighthouse on the Great Lakes, at 224 feet above sea level. The Township of Terrace Bay lighthouse stands as a symbol to the community’s long-standing connection with Lake Superior, the Slate Islands and the majestic woodland caribou that reside there.

People love to climb to the top and admire the views of Lake Superior, Slate Island, the terraced cliffs that gave the town its name and the forests.

The Artisan Market

The popular artisan street market will take place in Simcoe Plaza, not far from the lighthouse from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to pick up some one-of-a-kind treasures from an array of talented local and regional artisans and artists. Making sure you don’t go hungry as you shop, there will be lots of food and beverages available in the plaza area, provided by local restaurants and food trucks. Visit Drifter’s Restaurant, Wah’s Restaurant, Subway and Mo & Jo’s Lighthouse Variety as well as food vendors The Orchard Café, The Golden Rail, El Comal, Twisted Treats and K & R Northshore Fries.

You won’t want to miss the sidewalk sale either where local businesses offer their deals of the day.

Then, if you’ve worked up a thirst from all that fun, you can head over to Drifter’s Lounge and Slate Islands Brewery for some beer tastings.

Cheers to Beer

 

The festival beer gardens will be the place to meet old friends and make some new ones from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. The fully licensed bar is provided courtesy of local community groups. Age of majority proof will be required, smoking is not permitted and the tent closes to minors at 9:30 p.m.

For the safety and convenience of festival goers, the Schreiber shuttle bus starts at 9 p.m. and runs on the hour until 1 a.m.  The shuttle starts at the Drifters Parking Lot and drops passengers off at The Voy. Remember to drink responsibly – and have fun!

First Class – Car/Motorcycle Show & Shine

From 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. in Simcoe Plaza will be another crowd pleaser, the Annual Car/Motorcycle Show and Shine. Check out the beautiful vehicles & motorcycles, chat with their proud owners and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award.

Fun in the Park

Young adventurers – and grown ups ones too – always have a blast at Fun in the Park, held from 2 – 7 p.m. Remember to bring your swimsuits to enjoy the water slide and don’t miss the huge bouncy castles for more fun.

The lovable clowns Dottie and Lulu spread laughter wherever they go, and the Lighthouse Festival will be no exception.  They will be busy painting faces and sculpting balloons in the park.

Music to Your Ears – A Full Day of Music

Starting at 3:00 p.m. and going strong until one a.m., the live stage show will treat your ears to some great music.

The Curbside Cruisers will kick things off from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. These local favourites feature classic rock hits and they’re a definite crowd pleaser.

Throwback, the hottest band in Thunder Bay, will be on stage from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. They cover country tunes and 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and current music that will have everyone on their feet dancing. Not only was Throwback rated one of the top cover bands in Thunder Band and Hottest Band in Northwestern Ontario, but their singer Chris Talarico was named best singer and best country singer in Northwestern Ontario.

Terrace Bay’s own D.J. Derek Boucher aka D.J. Dbbl D will also be playing music all day long.

New This Year – Corn Hole Tourney!

Get ready to test your skills at this summer favourite. The tourney starts at 5 p.m. in Simcoe Plaza and there is no charge to enter.  Open to all ages, the tourney offers some great prizes.  Register the day of the event by 4pm at the Terrace Bay Tent.

In Control

The whole family will want to take in the demonstration by the Terrace Bay Radio Control Club at Simcoe Plaza from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Precision and speed are showcased at this exciting event.

Make Plans Now

Make your plans now to head to Terrace Bay on the third Friday of August for the Terrace Bay Lighthouse Festival. Join in the celebrations with music, local food, arts and crafts, fireworks, playground fun and much more against the iconic lighthouse backdrop. It’s a beloved annual tradition that celebrates this Northern Ontario town’s beauty and maritime history.

For more information and updates, go to https://visitterracebay.ca/terrace-bay-events

 

Nestled in the rugged and untamed wilderness of Northwestern Ontario, close to the beautiful community of Terrace Bay, lies one of Canada’s best-kept secrets: the Casque Isles Hiking Trail. Among its captivating segments, the Death Valley section stands out as a testament to nature’s raw beauty and the indomitable spirit of adventurers. This challenging 10-kilometer stretch takes hikers through an awe-inspiring landscape where towering cliffs meet the relentless power of Lake Superior, and dense forests conceal serene, hidden lakes. As you traverse the rugged terrain, every step reveals a new breathtaking vista, offering both a test of endurance and a reward of unparalleled triumph. Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a thrilling escapade, or a nature lover drawn to the call of the wild, the Death Valley segment promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most spectacular regions in the Great White North.

The Death Valley segment has two access points on Highway 17, at Worthington Bay Road and Hydro Bay Road. The segment itself, when through hiking the trail is about 10 km, but if you are electing to do just the one segment it adds another 7 km to get to your vehicle at the access points. It’s a point-to-point segment, so the best way to tackle transportation is bring two vehicles and park at each access point or get a ride from your end point back to your vehicle.  My favourite way to hike this segment is to start at Hydro Bay and hike west. I have done this segment many times as a stand-alone, and as a through-hike of the whole Casque Iles Trail, and it continues to be my favourite hike in Ontario, hands down. Let me tell you about it!

Park at the Hydro Bay trail head marker and make your way down a private drive lined by camps. Follow the trail markers as you leave civilization behind.  The trail starts through dense forest, a journey into nature’s serene beauty. The thick canopy overhead filters the sunlight, creating a dance of light and shadow on the forest floor. Towering birch, poplar, and pine, stand like ancient guardians watching the trail. The air is fresh and filled with the earthy aroma of moss, punctuated by the distant calls of birds and the rustling of squirrels. As you tread softly on the cushioned path of fallen leaves and pine needles, the forest envelops you in its tranquil embrace, offering a peaceful prelude to the stark, contrasting landscapes that lie ahead in Death Valley.

From Kelly’s Harbour to Les Petit Escrits, the journey challenges you with steep inclines and drops as you navigate the landscape from hillside to shoreline. This exhilarating challenge rewards hikers with breathtaking beauty at every turn. The rugged terrain demands careful footing as you climb steep inclines and navigate precipitous descents into the stunning rocky bays of Lake Superior. Each ascent brings you to lofty lookouts where the vast expanse of the lake unfolds beneath you. These panoramic vistas, high above the shoreline, offer a sense of awe and accomplishment. Descending, you find yourself intimately close to the water’s edge, where the waves lap gently against ancient rocks, and the air is filled with the crisp, refreshing scent of the lake. The juxtaposition of challenging climbs and serene bays creates a hiking experience that is both physically demanding and spiritually uplifting, immersing you in the wild beauty of the landscape.

At Petit Escrits there is the most beautiful campsite. A glorious white sand beach nestled into the protected cove of the channel. I have so many wonderful memories camping at this spot, and although it is a challenge to haul in overnight gear, it is absolutely worth it to camp that close to the wonder and beauty of the big lake.

Passing by the beautiful beach of Petit Escrits, you are on the home stretch to Worthington Bay. which is my favorite part of Death Valley.  Scrambling across rocky shoreline where you are face to face with huge fissures and incredible basalt structures that tower above you in an artful display. There is one spot just before Worthington Bay that my friends and I have lovingly nicknamed “Mars”.  Here, the rock flows over the landscape in red tinged waves gently kissing the turquoise waters of Lake Superior.  The otherworldly vibe of Mars is just as interesting to look at as it is to hike across – with some technical sections that require slow and steady foot placements!

Worthington Bay is always a welcomed sight. The dark grey shoreline of course sand and small pebbles stretch across a beautiful bay.  A few amazing things about this spot is the pictographs.  They are hidden along the far west side of the beach in a little cove. Another favorite feature of mine is the Worthington Bay Rock.  A stunning jagged structure rising from the dark beach. A great place for an Instagram worthy photo!

As you reach the end of the Death Valley segment, the sense of accomplishment and wonder is palpable. Every step taken over rocky outcrops, through lush forests, and along the breathtaking shoreline has been a testament to the beauty and challenge of this extraordinary trail. The memories of panoramic vistas, the thrill of navigating rugged terrain, and the quiet moments of reflection in lush moss-covered forest make every moment of the journey profoundly rewarding. This trail is more than just a hike; it’s an experience that reaffirms the unbelievable allure of nature. Each step is a reminder that the most challenging paths often lead to the most beautiful destinations, and the journey through Death Valley is undeniably worth every stride.

It’s not an understatement to say that Northern Ontario is vast. After all, it covers almost 90% of Ontario’s landmass and is bigger than Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia combined. Given all this, it’s not somewhere that you’d readily think of when planning a weekend getaway. But you’d be wrong. It’s time for a Terrace Bay Getaway!

Across the North there are charming villages, towns and cities just waiting to treat you to a fun-filled two- or three-day “staycation” – or longer. One such area is the North Shore of Lake Superior, a stunningly beautiful section of the famed Lake Superior Circle Tour.

Let’s make this a couple’s getaway, departing from Thunder Bay. Terrace Bay, 218 kms to the east, is our destination but not before we’ve sampled some adventures along the way. This is not a trip that will require a lot of pre-planning but booking your accommodations in advance is a must as rooms fill up quickly in the summer on the North Shore (I suggest Drifter’s as it has a popular restaurant onsite and offers suites). You will also want to check with the Aquasabon Golf Club to make sure there are no tournaments on; otherwise, there are no tee times and usually no waiting to tee off.

A stop at one of the amethyst mines just east of Thunder Bay will get the trip off to a great start. Once revered as the “jewel of the gods”, amethyst is the official gemstone of the province of Ontario. For many, it symbolizes good luck, love and happiness. There are several amethyst mines in the area, with one of the best-known ones being Amethyst Mine Panorama. Created about a billion (yes, that’s 1000 million) years ago, Amethyst Mine Panorama offers visitors the adventure of mining for amethyst across a five-acre site.  What you find is yours to keep for just $5 a pound and you can also shop for handcrafted amethyst jewellery and souvenirs.

All that rockhounding and shopping has probably given you an appetite so plan a stop for lunch just up the highway in Nipigon. You can’t go wrong with Ducky’s Diner, renowned for its many variations on a fried chicken sandwich (try the Legally Blonde), its massive home-made burgers and its pizzas with freshly made sauces and crusts.

Terrace Bay is only about an hour away. When you arrive, you’ll have many options to stretch your legs and walk off that lunch. Start by getting your bearings—and some exercise—by climbing to the top of the Terrace Bay Lighthouse, located near the Simcoe Shopping Plaza. This 50-foot replica of the historic lighthouse on the Slate Islands offers a panoramic view of the town, Lake Superior and the Slates themselves from a walkway around the top of the structure.

Spend the afternoon at the Aguasabon Golf Club, where, as mentioned, you can tee off at your convenience. The course has a nine-hole layout featuring striking scenery that borders the winding Aguasabon River and skirts the Terrace Bay Beach on Lake Superior. Its signature hole is number seven, a short par-4, dog-legging to the right and boasting a beautiful view of Lake Superior and the Slate Islands.

You can freshen up back at Drifter’s and then head downstairs for dinner before dropping in to the Slate Island Brewery to celebrate a great first day of your getaway.

Boasting views of its namesake from the patio, Slate Island Brewing Company makes the town and land surrounding it an integral part of the brewing process, using Lake Superior water as a base to experiment with unique flavour profiles. At any given time, you’ll find local rhubarb in your beer or maple syrup and honey from the region. Slate Island Brewing Company is part of the Lake Superior Circle Tour Ale Trail.

Related Article: 5 Reasons to Visit Slate Island Brewery

A sound night’s sleep awaits you as you dream of tomorrow’s adventures. You won’t have to go far to fuel your engines in the morning as Drifter’s is known for its tasty breakfasts. Then, more outdoor adventures await you on the Casque Isles Trail.

Casque Isles is a 53 km trail that connects the towns of Rossport, Schreiber and Terrace Bay. It was first built in 1976 by a volunteer crew from this region and is maintained by the dedicated volunteers of Casque Isles Hiking Club. It’s known as one of the top ten hikes in all of Ontario.

A highlight of the trail is Aguasabon Falls which came to life in the late 1940s, through the Aguasabon Hydro Development that created a source of hydro-electric power for the soon-to-be Township of Terrace Bay and the local pulp mill. The project established a dam at the north end of Long Lake to redirect water southward and away from Hudson Bay, where the water traditionally flowed. As a result of the diversion, Hays Lake just North of Terrace Bay enlarged to massive proportions and the spillway created the falls you will see today.

Related Article: A History of Aguasabon Falls and Gorge

Next stop is the beautiful sandy Terrace Bay Beach with its pavilion, visitor information centre, gift shop and illuminated walkway. After you explore the amenities, settle into a Parks Canada Red Chair and take the time to savour the view of the world’s largest freshwater lake, as the sound of the waves lulls you into a state of relaxation.

There are more dinner options available in town and just down the road in Schreiber including Asian, Italian, fast food, country style and more. For a nightcap, head back to Slate Islands Brewery to toast your Terrace Bay getaway.

Heading home the next morning, you will want to take the time to explore some of the other attractions you spotted on your way east including the Nipigon Lookout, the Red Rock Interpretive Centre and Ouimet Canyon! Take in what you can and put the others on a list for your next Terrace Bay getaway!

Hello, craft beer fans! We’ve got a hidden gem for you. Slate Island Brewing Company is a small craft brewery on Lake Superior’s North Shore, about a two-hour drive east of Thunder Bay or a five-hour drive north of Sault Ste. Marie. Operating since 2021, it offers a rotating collection of great craft brews, a tap room and a view of Lake Superior that is endlessly beautiful. Here are some top reasons to pay a visit to Slate Island Brewing Company.

1. The Beers are Delicious

Local ingredients go into the making of Slate Island’s beers, including pristine Lake Superior water. “When we use honey in some of our processes, we try to source it as locally as possible. In the fall, we’ll make a maple beer that has maple syrup in it, and we’ll get that out of St. Joseph Island,” says brewery owner Brian Doig, referring to an island community south of Sault Ste. Marie. What’s the fan favourite? “Our Experience North kölsch is by far our best seller,” says Doig. “It has more of a universal appeal for the people who are not diehard craft drinkers—it has a nice taste but it’s crafty enough so it also appeals to the craft beer drinkers. It’s just a very easy-drinking gold ale and a well-rounded beer.” Another popular brew is the Slate Island Red. This ale is medium-bodied and offers a blend of specialty malts to impart caramel, toffee and buttery notes. Currently in the testing stages: a hard cider.

2. You can’t Beat the Location

Terrace Bay is a small and friendly community right on the shores of Lake Superior in Northwestern Ontario’s Superior Country. There you can find incredible opportunities to soak up all the natural beauty of the big lake, rocky shorelines, islands, the boreal forest, soaring cliffs, deep gorges and mesmerizing waterfalls. It’s truly an outdoor playground for those who like to hike, fish, camp, boat, explore and hunt—as well as those who are happy to kick back and relax, paint or snap pictures in a tranquil natural setting.

Slate Island Brewing Company is centrally located on the main street in a local plaza, overlooking the lake. While the site was formerly a 5,000-square-foot Canada Post office, Doig just knew it would have a great second act as a craft brewery. “It had all the necessary kind of elements. It had three-phase power for the kettles for the brewing process, it also had a loading dock, and it had the whole area at the front counter which makes an amazing tap room,” says Doig. Simcoe Plaza has a lively blend of retail shops, businesses and restaurants, with lots of parking too. The brewery hosts community events too, so you may find yourself visiting during dart night or the Books & Brews book club.

And the Slate Islands in the name? Those are some small islands (a bona fide archipelago) about 12 km (7.5 miles) offshore of Terrace Bay and visible from the mainland. A Provincial Park that’s classified as “natural environment” (i.e., no visitor facilities) and only accessible by water, these islands are remarkably beautiful, historic and geologically interesting…and home to a woodland caribou population and many species of unique plant life too.

3. There’s a Dream-Come-True Backstory

“What’s the best way to put it? Kind of like a midlife crisis!” jokes Doig. With an engineering background and 25 years spent in IT, he says he was looking to do a “total 180-degree turn.” After years of dabbling in amateur brewing and enjoying beer tours, he took the plunge and got the process started in 2017. “I thought I’d dip my toes in the water and see where it would lead.” After lots of research into different types of brewing equipment and processes, he opted for a BIAC brewing system, which stands for “Brew In A Conical.” Doig says he liked the simplicity of the system. “We didn’t have to transfer from tank to tank—it was all done in one system, everything from the boiling to the fermentation to the clarifying. It does everything all in one tank,” he says. “It reduces [the possibility of] contamination and it also reduces the amount of equipment that we need in order to brew.” After completing the training and obtaining the necessary provincial and federal licenses to open a microbrewery (including a COVID-induced delay), Slate Island Brewing Co. opened on March 17, 2021…just in time for a lockdown. They pivoted to take-home orders, but opened again when they got the go-ahead, and have been slowly building their business ever since. Today, Slate Island beers are available on-site at the brewery taproom in Terrace Bay, of course, and also at venues in neighbouring North Shore communities including Marathon, Schreiber, Rossport and Thunder Bay.

 

4. It’s on the Lake Superior Ale Trail

If you love craft beer and the beauty of Lake Superior, the Lake Superior Ale Trail is a must-do. This self-guided tour includes 20 interesting craft breweries located in Lake Superior communities in both Canada and the United States. As you and your designated driver make your way around the world’s largest freshwater lake (a true inland sea) you can check out the breath-taking scenery and visit some small cities and towns to discover northern-style beers of every description. (If you have a coffee lover in your party, you may want to consider the Lake Superior Java Journey too. The route around the lake helps you realize just how enormous Lake Superior is: approximately 2,092 km (1,300 miles)—wow! There’s a Circle Tour App to help you plan your trip too.

5. That View is Something Else

The tap room is an inviting spot, but for true-north beauty, be sure to kick back on a comfy bright red chair on the patio. “You have a beautiful view of the Slate Islands and the lighthouse right across the way,” says Doig, plus you can do a little people-watching while you sip and chat too. The red-and-white lighthouse is a 50-foot (15 m) replica of the original on the Slate Islands. Bar trivia: the Slate Island Lighthouse is the highest elevated lighthouse on the Great Lakes, at 224 feet (68 m) above sea level.

Be sure to plan a visit to Slate Island Brewing Company in Terrace Bay! Slate Island Brewing Company is located at 9 Simcoe Plaza, Terrace Bay, Ontario, on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Visit their Facebook Page for current hours.