Road Trip Adventure: Toronto to Manitoulin Island (2025)
Updated: Feb 9
Embarking on a road trip from Toronto to Manitoulin Island is an exhilarating journey through some of Ontario's most scenic landscapes and charming small towns. Spanning approximately 550 kilometers, this trip not only offers breathtaking natural beauty but also a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Here's your guide to this exciting road trip.
Road Trip: Toronto to Manitoulin Island (2025)

Table of Index
Start: Toronto
Before you begin your adventure, ensure your vehicle is prepared for the journey. Check your car's essentials, pack snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and entertainment for the road. Now, let's hit the road!
Day 1: Toronto to Tobermory
Distance: 300 km
Approximate Driving Time: 4 hours
Things to Do:
Collingwood: About two hours into your drive, stop in Collingwood. This town is known for its art galleries, local boutiques, and the scenic views from Sunset Point Park. Grab a coffee and stroll around the historic downtown.
Owen Sound: Continue to Owen Sound and visit the Tom Thomson Art Gallery, which celebrates one of Canada’s most influential artists. Nearby, the Inglis Falls offers a beautiful natural setting for a short hike.
Arrive in Tobermory:
Tobermory is the northern terminus of the Bruce Peninsula. This small, bustling harbor village is known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and the gateway to Fathom Five National Marine Park.
Stay Overnight in Tobermory:
Choose from a variety of accommodations from cozy inns to waterfront hotels. Enjoying a fresh seafood dinner at a local restaurant is a must.
Day 2: Exploring Tobermory and Ferry to Manitoulin Island
Spend your morning exploring Tobermory’s natural attractions before catching the ferry to Manitoulin Island.

Things to Do in Tobermory:
Flowerpot Island: Take a boat tour to Flowerpot Island, known for its natural rock pillars and historic lighthouse. Hiking and snorkeling are popular activities here.
Bruce Peninsula National Park: Visit the park for a chance to hike the famous Bruce Trail or explore the Grotto, a stunning sea cave with crystal blue waters.
MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry to Manitoulin Island:
In the afternoon, board the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry to Manitoulin Island. The ferry ride offers spectacular views of the Georgian Bay and is itself an enjoyable part of the journey. Make sure to reserve your spot on the ferry in advance during peak season.
Arrival on Manitoulin Island:
Upon arriving on Manitoulin Island, you are welcomed into a world of incredible Indigenous culture and natural beauty. South Baymouth, where the ferry docks, offers a quaint introduction to the island.
Stay Overnight on Manitoulin Island:
Choose from various accommodations ranging from lakeside resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. Relax in the serene environment and prepare for further exploration of Manitoulin Island.
You've completed the first part of your road trip from Toronto to Manitoulin Island. This segment of your journey introduced you to the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities along the way. As you settle in on Manitoulin Island, get ready for more adventures filled with cultural insights and natural wonders.
In the first part of our journey, we traveled from Toronto to the captivating town of Tobermory, explored its natural wonders, and took the scenic ferry ride to Manitoulin Island. Now, let's continue our exploration of Manitoulin Island, delving into its rich Indigenous culture, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions.
Day 3: Exploring Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island is not only the world's largest freshwater island but also a cultural treasure trove with deep-rooted Native American traditions.

Things to Do on Manitoulin Island:
Great Spirit Circle Trail:Â Begin your day with a guided tour by the Indigenous people of Manitoulin. These tours offer insights into the native flora and fauna, traditional medicines, and spiritual practices.
Cup and Saucer Trail:Â Hike this famed trail, which offers one of the best views on the island. The trail leads to a lookout point atop the Niagara Escarpment, providing panoramic views of the island's lush landscapes.
Read More:
Stay Overnight in Kagawong:
Kagawong offers charming accommodations, from quaint inns to lakeside cottages. Enjoy the peaceful evening by the shores of Lake Huron.
Day 4: More Explorations and Cultural Insights
Continue exploring the eastern part of Manitoulin Island, which is rich in history and natural beauty.
Things to Do:
Wikwemikong Unceded Reserve: Visit one of the largest First Nations communities in Canada. Participate in a cultural workshop or attend a pow-wow if your visit coincides with event dates.
Manitoulin Eco Park: Try your hand at stargazing at the Dark Sky Preserve, an ideal spot thanks to the minimal light pollution on the island.
Tehkummah and South Baymouth:
Tehkummah Triangle Rendezvous: Explore antique shops and local art galleries in the quaint village of Tehkummah.
South Baymouth: Before you leave, stroll around South Baymouth. Visit the local marina and watch the Chi-Cheemaun ferry glide in and out, a peaceful way to conclude your visit to Manitoulin.

Things to Do on Manitoulin Island Full List
1. Explore Bridal Veil Falls
Visit this beautiful waterfall in Kagawong, which is one of the island's most popular spots.
You can take a short hike along the trails or go for a refreshing swim in the pool beneath the falls.
There’s a staircase leading down to the falls and connecting trails to Kagawong River.
2. Discover Indigenous Culture
Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF):Â Learn about Anishinaabe culture, art, language, and history through exhibits, workshops, and storytelling.
Great Spirit Circle Trail:Â Participate in guided cultural experiences like nature walks, drumming workshops, and traditional teachings led by local Indigenous guides.
3. Take in the Views at Cup and Saucer Trail
Hike this iconic trail, which offers stunning views from cliffs that rise 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest.
The trail features a mix of rugged terrain, lookouts, and a challenging adventure loop for more experienced hikers.
4. Visit Little Current
The island's largest town and main gateway, featuring charming shops, restaurants, and scenic views along the waterfront.
Check out the Little Current Swing Bridge, a unique piece of engineering that connects the island to the mainland.
5. Go Boating and Fishing
Since the island is surrounded by Lake Huron and dotted with inland lakes, it’s perfect for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Popular spots include Lake Mindemoya, Lake Kagawong, and the North Channel.
6. Relax at Providence Bay Beach
One of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.
The nearby Providence Bay Boardwalk offers a scenic stroll along the shoreline.
7. Explore Manitoulin's Lighthouses
Mississagi Lighthouse:Â Located on the island's western tip, this lighthouse offers history, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Kagawong Lighthouse:Â A smaller lighthouse near the town of Kagawong, great for photos and views of the lake.
Read More:
8. Visit Local Art Galleries and Studios
Perivale Gallery:Â Showcasing works by local and regional artists, this gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Split Rail Brewing Co.:Â While not an art gallery, this local craft brewery offers a cozy place to relax and sample island-inspired brews.
9. Discover Fossils at Fossil Hill
A unique location for geology enthusiasts to spot ancient fossils in limestone formations.
10. Attend Island Festivals
Haweater Weekend: Held every August long weekend in Little Current, this festival celebrates the island’s heritage with parades, fireworks, and events.
Wikwemikong Pow Wow:Â One of the largest Indigenous powwows in Canada, featuring traditional dance, music, and crafts.
11. Visit Gordon's Park
A family-friendly eco-park offering stargazing, camping, and educational programs.
The park is known for its dark-sky preserve, making it a great spot for observing the Milky Way and meteor showers.
12. Explore Nature Reserves and Parks
Misery Bay Provincial Park:Â Offers hiking trails, rare alvars, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Cup and Saucer Nature Reserve:Â Apart from the main trail, this area is home to diverse flora and fauna.
13. Learn at the Old Mill Heritage Centre
Located in Kagawong, this museum highlights the island's history, including its logging and fishing past.
14. Go Horseback Riding
Local stables offer guided horseback rides through forests and along scenic trails.
15. Stargaze at Dark Sky Preserves
With minimal light pollution, Manitoulin Island offers incredible stargazing opportunities, especially in Gordon’s Park and other remote areas.
16. Visit Spirit Island
Spirit Island is a sacred place for the Anishinaabe people and is located within the waters of Lake Mindemoya. While you can view it from the shore, it is best appreciated with respect for its cultural significance.
17. Visit the Immaculate Conception Church:
In M'Chigeeng, visit the Immaculate Conception Church, known for its beautiful blend of modern architecture and Anishinaabe culture. The church's stained glass windows tell stories of the local Ojibwe people.

Cultural Exploration on Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island is rich in Indigenous culture, primarily rooted in the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi) peoples who have lived on the island for centuries. Cultural exploration on the island offers visitors the chance to learn about their traditions, spirituality, stories, and way of life directly from Indigenous communities. Here's how you can immerse yourself in the cultural offerings of Manitoulin Island:
1. Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF)
Location: M’Chigeeng First Nation
What to Do:The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation is a hub for preserving and sharing Anishinaabe culture.
View traditional and contemporary Indigenous art in the gallery.
Learn about the Anishinaabe language, spirituality, and history through exhibits.
Participate in workshops for crafting (e.g., beadwork, quillwork) or cultural practices like drum-making.
Visit the smudging room or attend ceremonies for a deeper spiritual experience.
2. Great Spirit Circle Trail
Location:Â Operates across the island with various tour options.
What to Do: This Indigenous-owned organization offers guided cultural experiences led by Anishinaabe hosts. Activities include:
Medicine Walks:Â Learn about traditional plants and their uses for healing, food, and ceremony.
Storytelling:Â Hear captivating legends passed down through generations.
Drumming and Dancing Workshops:Â Try your hand at traditional instruments and learn ceremonial dances.
Canoeing or Snowshoeing Tours: Explore the island’s natural beauty while hearing stories about the land and water’s significance to the Anishinaabe people.
These tours provide a personal and authentic connection to Indigenous traditions.
3. Wikwemikong Unceded Territory
What to Explore: Wikwemikong is Canada’s only officially recognized unceded Indigenous territory, meaning it was never surrendered through a treaty. It is one of the most culturally vibrant areas on the island.
Wikwemikong Pow Wow: Held annually in August, this is one of Canada’s largest traditional powwows. It features competitive dancing, drumming, and traditional regalia.
Cultural Tours:Â Guided by the Anishinaabe people, these tours take you through sacred sites, historic locations, and natural landmarks important to the community.
4. Visit Sacred Sites
Learn the Spiritual Connection to the Land: Manitoulin Island (called Mnidoo Mnising, meaning "Spirit Island") is considered sacred by the Anishinaabe people. Several locations on the island hold spiritual significance:
Spirit Island (in Lake Mindemoya):Â A sacred site for ceremonies. While it is not open for visitors to explore directly, you can view it from the shore and learn about its importance.
Dreamer’s Rock (near Birch Island): A site where young Anishinaabe people traditionally fasted and prayed during their vision quests. Visitors may explore the area respectfully, but it is important to seek permission from local communities.
Cup and Saucer Trail:Â While known for its spectacular views, this trail also holds cultural significance, as it runs through ancient Indigenous lands.
Read More:
5. Old Mill Heritage Centre in Kagawong
What to Do: While this museum primarily focuses on the island’s European settler history, it also includes exhibits on the interactions between settlers and the island’s Indigenous peoples. It’s a good starting point for understanding the broader historical context of Manitoulin Island.
6. Indigenous Arts and Crafts
Support Local Artists: Manitoulin Island is home to many talented Indigenous artists who create traditional and contemporary works.
Buy Authentic Art and Crafts:Â Look for handmade items such as moccasins, beadwork, birchbark crafts, and quillwork.
Perivale Gallery:Â While it features works by various artists, this gallery often includes pieces by Indigenous creators.
Visit local shops in communities like M’Chigeeng and Wikwemikong to find unique, handmade items.
7. Attend Ceremonies and Workshops
What to Do: Many communities on the island host public ceremonies and workshops where visitors can gain insight into Indigenous spirituality and customs.
Smudging ceremonies, which involve burning sacred herbs like sage or sweetgrass, are often open to visitors at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.
Participate in crafting workshops, like making dreamcatchers, moccasins, or traditional jewelry.
8. Learn Anishinaabe Language
Why It Matters: The Anishinaabe language (Ojibwe) is central to the culture and worldview of the island's Indigenous peoples. Many cultural centers and tours incorporate language lessons, giving you a chance to learn greetings, place names, and their meanings.
9. Experience Indigenous Cuisine
What to Try: Sample traditional Indigenous dishes that include local ingredients like fish, wild rice, and berries. Many cultural events and powwows feature food vendors offering dishes such as:
Bannock (a type of bread).
Freshly caught fish, like trout or whitefish.
Wild game dishes.
10. Participate in Seasonal Events
Wikwemikong Ice Fishing Derby (Winter):Â Learn about traditional ice fishing practices and enjoy a fun day on the frozen lakes.
Fall Harvest Celebrations:Â Many Indigenous communities on the island celebrate the harvest season with feasts, storytelling, and cultural activities.
Tips for Respectful Cultural Exploration
Ask Permission:Â Always ask before exploring sacred or private sites.
Be Open to Learning:Â Approach cultural experiences with humility and a willingness to learn.
Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses:Â Look for tours, accommodations, and shops run by local Indigenous people to ensure your visit benefits the community.
Avoid Stereotypes: Indigenous culture is diverse and dynamic—engage with it authentically and avoid assuming it is tied to outdated or romanticized ideas.
Manitoulin Island offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the culture and history of the Anishinaabe people, making it a meaningful and enriching destination for cultural exploration.

Tips for Visiting Manitoulin Island
Transportation:Â Most visitors drive to the island via the Little Current Swing Bridge or take the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry from Tobermory.
Seasonal Activities:Â Many attractions and trails are best enjoyed in summer and early fall. Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Respect Local Culture: The island is home to several Indigenous communities—explore with respect and learn about their traditions.
Your road trip from Toronto to Manitoulin Island has allowed you to connect with nature, delve into fascinating cultures, and unwind in the tranquility of Northern Ontario. Manitoulin's blend of cultural richness and natural beauty provides a profound sense of place that is both invigorating and soothing.
As you prepare to return to Toronto, take with you the memories of spectacular landscapes, cultural dances, and the gentle waves of Lake Huron. Whether you retrace your steps back through Tobermory or choose another route for new sights, the journey back is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences of your road trip.
Safe travels as you carry the spirit of Manitoulin Island with you, until your next adventure.