Motorcycle touring in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

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Excerpt from the Ulysse guide Ontario by Motorcycle by Zabel Bourbeau

Distance: from Whitney to Dwight: 184  km
To reach Whitney: approximately 435 km from Montreal, approximately 690 km from Quebec City
Duration: 1 day
Level of difficulty: beginner

Renowned for its magnificent landscapes and diverse wildlife, Algonquin Provincial Park has long captivated and inspired visitors, including Canadian painter Tom Thomson, who created his most beautiful paintings there. Driving along the pleasant southern section of Highway 60, the only road that crosses this immense 7,653 km² park, you will discover untamed wilderness and learn about the history of Ontario’s forestry industry. With its many lakes, it is also an extraordinary place to take stunning photos. Created in 1893, Canada’s oldest provincial park is a great place to ride a motorcycle, especially when the fall colors paint a breathtaking picture.

From the east entrance to the west entrance of Algonquin Provincial Park, Highway 60 stretches 70 km through a dense forest teeming with life. The route suggested here starts on the east side of the park, in Whitney, where you will find all the necessary services and can refuel before setting off. You will then have 84 km to cover before arriving in Dwight, the next town with all the services you need.

Route 60 is named Frank MacDougall Parkway.

Within the park, Highway 60 is named Frank MacDougall Parkway, after a World War I veteran who was wounded during a gas attack and subsequently chose a career in the fresh air, contributing greatly to the establishment of the Algonquin Provincial Park forest service. As you drive along Frank MacDougall Parkway, keep your eyes open and pay attention: you’re sure to see lots of wildlife (moose, black bears, wolves, etc.), because you’re driving through their territory!

There are several places to stop and take a break.

There are several places to stop along the way. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, which should be part of your essential equipment. It’s fine while you’re riding, but as soon as you stop, count to 30 and that’s it! They’ve spotted us and are attacking…

After filling up with gas in Whitney, stop by the Mad Musher restaurant to fill your stomach. Then you’ll be ready to hop on your motorcycle and ride through this vast forest of deciduous and coniferous trees. Barely five minutes after turning the key, you’ll cross the east entrance to Algonquin Provincial Park and begin your adventure on Highway 60, known as Frank MacDougall Parkway.

You’ll immediately come across the Algonquin Logging Museum on your right. This free open-air museum offers a fascinating 1.5 km walking tour through a reconstruction of a logging camp. You’ll learn how the people of the region lived and worked and how the forestry industry has evolved over the years.

Continue on Frank MacDougall Parkway, with its perfect pavement and inviting gentle curves. As you ride your motorcycle, a sense of peace will wash over you.

As you ride your motorcycle, a sense of peace washes over you.

After about 11 miles, stop at the Algonquin Park Visitor Center, which has a magnificent exhibition on the park’s animals and natural environment, and where it is not uncommon to see works by local artists. The center’s lookout offers a breathtaking view of the wild Algonquin landscape. There is also a restaurant and a shop full of fun and educational souvenirs.

The Algonquin Park Visitor Center offers an exhibition on the park's natural environment. — The Algonquin Park Visitor Center offers an exhibition on the park’s natural environment.

Get back on your motorcycle. About ten kilometers further on, on your left, you’ll be enchanted by the view of the beautiful Lake of Two Rivers. There’s a rest area where you can park to enjoy the small beach and cool off in the lake.

A short distance away, the Lake of Two Rivers Cafe & Grill offers not only food service but also a gift shop and grocery and bakery items.

About ten kilometers further on, the Algonquin Art Centre displays works by Canadian artists inspired by the region’s natural beauty.

Continue on Route 60 and enjoy the pure pleasure of riding on this remarkable road.

You will soon exit the park and arrive in Dwight. For a butter tart or ice cream, stop by Erika’s. For a meal or a drink, head to The Cookhouse Saloon.

If you want to extend your stay in the area, the Algonquin Lakeside Inn, located on the shores of Lake Oxtongue, just off the park’s west exit, is a great place to spend the night.

Good to know

When driving on Highway 60, you will not have to pay the Algonquin Provincial Park entrance fee. However, if you wish to use the facilities reserved for visitors (restrooms, picnic areas, beach, visitor center, trails, etc.), you will need to purchase a daily vehicle permit at the entrance.

Cell phone reception can be spotty in the park, so it’s a good idea to bring a paper road map in case you need to find your way around.

Route 60 Frank MacDougall Parkway has perfect pavement.

Well-kept secrets

Every Thursday in August, weather permitting, the park organizes wolf howling evenings. Its team of naturalists accompanies participants to a specific point along Route 60 where they imitate howls to encourage a nearby pack to respond.