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Hallman Motors Limited | Great Canadian Road Trips | Great Canadian Road Trip #4 – Little Known Gems

Great Canadian Road Trip #4 – Little Known Gems

Great Canadian Road Trips Jul 24th, 2025

Looking for a one day adventure for the whole family with scenic trails, waterfalls, sand dunes and sunsets? Our fourth Great Canadian Road Trip takes you to some little known gems and lakeside landscapes—all in a single day.

From the quiet beauty of the Sifton Bog, to the roaring falls at Rock Glen, to fun dune climb, lakeside strolls and a nostalgic dinner in Bayfield, this is full of classic road trip charm and budget friendly too.

Whether you are travelling solo, or loading up the whole family this is an easy loop to follow and full of opportunities to explore off the beaten path. Fuel up, grab your camera, pack a picnic lunch and let the adventure begin!

ROUTE OVERVIEW

Total Round Trip Distance: ~372 kms
Total Stops: 6

🌐 Complete Google Maps Itinerary

STOP 1: Sifton Bog

📍 1210 Oxford St W, London, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲FREE Parking. Lot has limited space.

  • Unique bog boardwalk trail with floating dock lookout
  • Rare tamarack and carnivorous plant species
  • Quick, peaceful stop to reconnect with nature

Tip: Keep an eye out for turtles, frogs, and water birds and sometimes even deer.

STOP 2: Rock Glen Conservation Area

📍 8680 Rock Glen Rd, Arkona, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲 Day use fee $4.25 per person. Under 5 years FREE.

  • Stunning 10.7 m waterfall and forested gorge.
  • Home to fossils over 350 million years old.
  • Accessible trails and scenic bridges.

Bonus: Pack water shoes if you want to wade in the creek near the falls.

STOP 3: Port Franks Dune Climb

📍  9997 Port Franks Rd, Lambton Shores, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲Park at community centre. No fee for the climb, but may need to pay to park.

  • Moderate sand dune climb with panoramic lake views
  • Unique Carolinian forest and rare dune habitat
  • Great workout, fun for kids and photo op at the top

Tip: Trail isn’t marked—look for worn paths and follow the incline.

STOP 4: Pinery Provincial Park

📍 9526 Lakeshore Rd, Grand Bend, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲About $21.00 for a vehicle day pass.

  • Sweeping Lake Huron beaches and 10+ km of trails.
  • One of the most biodiverse parks in Ontario.
  • Canoe rentals, lookout towers, and sandy fun.

Tip: A day-use pass is required—reserve ahead during peak times.

STOP 5: Woodland Drive In

📍17 Mill Road, Bayfield, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲Reasonably priced. $10-$20 for a meal.

  • Classic roadside diner fare with fresh-cut fries and milkshakes.
  • Patio dining and retro charm.
  • Perfect casual stop after a full day outdoors.

Tip: Try the fish and chips or a signature sundae!

STOP 6: Pioneer Park

📍  1 Tuyll St, Bayfield, ON
🌐 Google Maps Link
💲FREE parking.

  • Quiet clifftop park overlooking Lake Huron.
  • Perfect spot to take in a sunset after a fun filled day.
  • Benches, grassy areas, and stairs down to the beach.

Tip: Short walk to Main Street and the Mara Street Walkway to the public pier.

As the sun sets over Lake Huron and you make your way back home, take a moment to appreciate just how much beauty and variety can be packed into a single day. From peaceful boardwalks and waterfalls to windswept dunes and shoreline sunsets, this road trip proves that unforgettable adventures don’t have to be far from home.

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