Our third road trip is a fun one for the kids! It is packed with stunning views, outdoor adventure and unique Canadian Landmarks.
Plan ahead and book a two night stay in Sudbury. You’ll have time to explore Manitoulin Island, visit the iconic Big Nickel and discover Science North before heading home.
ROUTE OVERVIEW
Total Round Trip Distance: ~839 kms
Total Stops: 7
DAY ONE – HANOVER TO SUDBURY
This adventure kicks off bright and early to ensure you don’t miss the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry, and taking in incredible view of Georgian Bay. Once on Manitoulin Island, spend the day exploring the Cup and Saucer Trail and Bridal Veil Falls, while soaking up the islands natural beauty and charm.
After a full day of exploring, continue North to Sudbury for the night, and get ready for a fun filled Day 2!
STOP 1: Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Terminal
📍 8 Eliza St, Tobermory, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲Fares vary depending on size of vehicle and number of passengers.
- Iconic ferry crossing linking the Bruce Peninsula to Manitoulin Island.
- Stunning Georgian Bay views from the deck.
- Fun and fascinating to see them unload and reload the ferry. Fun for kids.
Tip: Book reservations online ahead of time to secure your crossing.
STOP 2: Cup and Saucer Trail
📍 4097 ON-540, M’Chigeeng, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲 FREE PARKING & TRAIL ACCESS
- Famous Ontario hike with epic cliff-top views.
- Well marked trails with moderate difficulty.
- Lookouts over Manitoulin’s forest and escarpment landscape.
Tip: Bring water and sturdy shoes. The trail has some steep sections.
STOP 3: Bridal Veil Falls
📍 Hwy 540, Kagawong, ON (near Old Mill Rd)
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲FREE PARKING AND ACCESS TO THE FALLS
- Beautiful 11-metre cascade framed by limestone cliffs
- Easy walking trail to both top and bottom of the falls
- Scenic picnic spots nearby.
Tip: Go early or late in the day for fewer crowds.
DAY TWO – SCIENCE IN SUDBURY
After a good night of sleep in Sudbury, you’ll head out to some must-see attractions: The Big Nickel, an iconic symbol of Canada’s mining heritage and Science North with interactive exhibits for all ages before heading back to your hotel.
STOP 4: The Big Nickel
📍 122 Big Nickel Mine Dr, Sudbury, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲No parking fee for the first hour.
- Giant 30-foot replica of a 1951 Canadian Nickel.
- Get a photo with this symbol of Sudbury’s mining heritage.
- Free outdoor attraction with skyline views.
Tip: Consider visiting Dynamic Earth the hands-on science centre at the Big Nickel.
STOP 5: Science North
📍 100 Ramsey Lake Rd, Sudbury, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲 Admission $22.50-$28 per person. Parking $6.
- Interactive science exhibits for all ages.
- IMAX theatre and planetarium.
- Butterfly gallery and underground mine tour available.
Tip: Plan for at least 3 hours. It is larger than it looks and full of hands-on fun.
DAY THREE – HOMEWARD BOUND
Your final day begins starts on the road headed to French River Provincial Park, where a short hike leads to a stunning view of the historic French River Gorge. After stretching your legs, continue south to the Big Chute Marine Railway, where you can watch boats being carried over land.
It’s the perfect way to break u the long drive home and wrap this adventure with a few more stops along the way.
STOP 6: French River Provincial Park
📍 20526 Hwy 69, Alban, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲 Daily vehicle permit is up to $21.00.
- Visitor centre with history of the French River fur trade.
- Short, accessible trail to the famous French River Gorge bridge.
- Views of the river rapids and surrounding wilderness.
Tip: Great stop for a quick hike and rest break, as it’s right off highway 69.
STOP 7: Big Chute Marine Railway
📍 699 Big Chute Marina Rd, Coldwater, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲 Parking FREE
- Unique engineering marvel. the only railway of its kind in North America.
- Watch boats lifted and carried over land on tracks.
- Scenic picnic areas overlooking he Severn River.
Tip: Best visited during operating hours to see the boats in action.
While this is designed as a two-night getaway, it is meant as a guideline and you can easily extend the trip and pace it however you like. It is the perfect mix of scenic drives, outdoor adventure and uniquely Canadian stops—all within a few days.
Until next week—pack your bags, plan your stops and enjoy the adventure!