Located on the shores of Lake Nipissing, this city of 52,000 people is a gateway to northern Ontario. The Canadian Forces Base and Canadore College are major local employers.
North Bay lies 330 kilometers north of Toronto, between Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake. Walk alongside four-tiered waterfalls at Duchesnay Falls, swim at any of the 43 public beaches, or explore the 1903 railway station at Discovery North Bay Museum. In winter, ski down 12 runs at Laurentian Hill or paddle through Algonquin Park's gateway at Lake Kawawaymog during summer months.
Getting to North Bay
Drive north from Toronto on Highway 400 to Barrie, then continue on Highway 11. Fly into Jack Garland Airport (YYB) with connections to Toronto and Sudbury through Air Canada Jazz and Bearskin Airlines. Catch buses and trains at the combined terminal at 100 Station Road, with routes by Greyhound, Ontario Northland, and Autobus Maheux.
Lakes and Beaches
Swim and sunbathe for free at 43 public beaches along Lake Nipissing. Walk through gardens and rent boats at the North Bay Waterfront marina, where fishing charters depart daily. Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on Trout Lake's calm waters, where motor boat restrictions keep the lake quiet.
Winter Activities
Ski or snowboard 12 slopes at Laurentian Ski Hill, including beginner runs, advanced trails, and a terrain park. Cycle fat bikes across 8 kilometers of packed snow trails, glide across 6 outdoor skating rinks, or explore 250 kilometers of connected snowmobile paths throughout the region.
Arts and Culture
Watch concerts, plays, and dance performances at the 780-seat Capitol Centre. Learn about North Bay's railway past at Discovery North Bay Museum, which also hosts traveling exhibits from the Royal Ontario Museum. Find paintings and sculptures by Northern Ontario artists in three downtown galleries.
Indigenous Experiences
Browse traditional beadwork and crafts at the Nipissing First Nation Trading Post. Watch dancers in traditional regalia at pow-wows held from June through September. Learn about medicinal plants and their traditional uses during guided walks with local indigenous experts.
Hiking Trails
Follow wooden stairs and viewing platforms on the 3-kilometer Duchesnay Falls Trail to see four distinct waterfalls. Access five beaches and three viewpoints along the 6.5-kilometer Kinsmen Trail beside Lake Nipissing. Cycle or walk the paved Kate Pace Way for 12 kilometers through pine forests and wetlands from downtown to the airport.
