The weather is nice, the sun is shining bright, and we’re days away from another long weekend this August. Since this upcoming month is the last FULL month of summer, we need to make the most of it. The season slipped us by, didn’t it? But let’s not dwell on that for long; there is still tons of time to enjoy some of the best summer vibes along scenic road trips in Ontario.
A long drive in the country sounds like a great idea, and luckily, Ontario is blessed with stunning landscapes, so why not go on one of these road trips and explore all the beauty our province has to offer?
And while you’re at it, check out the nearby townships and cities and grab yourself a little souvenir. You never know what you’ll come across!
Most scenic road trips you can take in Ontario
Algonquin Provincial Park
Looking for a long road trip? We promise that the ride to Algonquin is worth it. The drive to the park alone is enough to take your breath away, and it only becomes more beautiful once you enter the grounds, in any season.
Where: Ontario Highway 60
Boreal Driving Route
Described as “a region that many Canadians will never see, yet offers so much in terms of history, culture, and natural wonder,” according to Ontario Parks, this is a part of the province that is worth exploring.
Canada’s Boreal Forest is so vast that it affects the health of the environment worldwide.
There are eight stops on this route, which starts in the northern city of Sudbury. Some destinations are a shorter drive than others, but the breathtaking sights you’ll see are worth every kilometre.
Where: View the map here
Elgin County Route
Ontario’s southwest is home to Canada’s only Carolinian Forests, named after the U.S. Carolinas because of the region’s similar landscapes and climate.
There are over 100 km of forests to explore in Elgin County, and this two-hour driving route will take you on a tour of the best that this area has to offer. You’ll make pit stops in adorable towns and villages, including the colourful Port Stanley, described as “Ontario’s hidden jewel.”
Where: Highway 401 at Graham Road
Forks of the Credit
This classic scenic drive is a must for your road trip plans. The road is full of twists, turns, and gorgeous views of the nearby provincial park. Plus, it’s right in Peel Region, so you won’t have to venture very far out of the city to experience it.
You’ll want to pay a visit to the many local conservation areas and the nearby town of Belfountain for a light bite. It’s the perfect activity for a peaceful Sunday afternoon.
Where: Forks of the Credit Road, Caledon, Ont.
Georgian Bay Coastal Route
Nothing beats the stunning views as you drive past some of the world’s largest freshwater beaches. The Georgian Bay Coastal Route is a real treat that winds along the Niagara Escarpment, and the La Cloche Mountains, too.
For the real explorer, you can also embark on a three-day lookout tour with 26 stops, across 1,206 km.
Where: Georgian Bay, Ont.
Kawartha Lakes
There are four scenic drives to choose from in this gorgeous region, just 90 minutes north of Toronto, each of them filled with amazing views and unexpected hidden gems.
Whether you’re looking to explore the charming surrounding towns or do some outdoor adventuring, you’ll get a little bit of everything in the Kawarthas.
Where: City of Kawartha Lakes, Ont.
Long Sault Parkway
If you love to take the scenic route, it’s safe to say that nothing compares to Long Sault Parkway.
The parkway connects you to 11 islands on the St. Lawrence River between Cornwall and Brockville.
There are beaches and campgrounds to stop at along the way, and you can even do the parkway by bike if you’re feeling adventurous.
Where: 22 Long Sault Dr., Long Sault, Ont.
Niagara Parkway
This driving route hugs the expansive Niagara River, and you’ll want to slow down and take it all in.
“The Niagara Parkway is a scenic drive running parallel to the Niagara River 55 km (34 mi) from Fort Erie in the south, to Niagara on the Lake in the north,” shares the tourism page.
It’s so beautiful that back in 1943, British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill visited Niagara Falls and said that the Niagara Parkway was the “prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.”
Stops include Horseshoe Falls, Dufferin Islands, and the White Water Walk, a trail that takes you along the rapids.
Where: Niagara, Ont.
Prince Edward County
Of all the places you could visit in Ontario, The County is one of a kind.
Views of rolling hills, historic townships, vineyards, and the pristine shorelines of Sandbanks Provincial Park will make this road trip extra special.
Make sure to stop by a local winery for a tasting, peek at an antique store, and pick up some fresh local goodies for the drive home.
Where: Prince Edward, Ont.
1,000 Islands Parkway
It doesn’t get more picturesque than this! This 40 km route begins right off of Highway 401 in Gananoque and takes you along the St. Lawrence River.
There are so many fun stops to make on this road trip, but you can still enjoy the breathtaking landscapes without leaving your car.
There’s even a 4,500 ft suspension bridge that takes you right to the U.S. Wellesley Island, with gorgeous views along the way.
Where: Highway 401, Exits 647 to 685
Enjoy the great outdoors Ontario is known for!
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