Ride The Edge Check 2025: Top Ten Touring Roads in the Great Canadian Wilderness
It is safe to say that this past winter was a tough one, not only for us but also for the roads we favour for our moto good times. So, when the time came to head out for the annual “Top 10 Motorcycle Roads in the Great Canadian Wilderness” spring road inspection ride, apprehension was at an all-time high. Three days and 1,600 kilometres later, I am happy to report that the roads made it through winter intact and are ready to ride.
Highway 60 Through Algonquin Park
Condition: Excellent
Even on a cold and rainy spring day, riding a motorcycle through Canada’s oldest provincial park is an incredible experience. I’m pleased to report that the road is clear and there is no construction. Several stops along the way provide a chance to grab a bite to eat or stretch your legs. In Whitney, you can enjoy a meal at The Mad Musher or the Algonquin Lunch Bar. Coffee and lemon squares at Algonquin Lunch Bar were a delightful treat on a chilly ride. Throughout the park, take a break at the Lake of Two Rivers Cafe & Grill or the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the area. Note that if you plan to make stops along Highway 60 while travelling through the park, you will require a day use permit which can be secured up to five days in advance.
Algonquin Park is renowned for its wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled.
Tally-Ho Swords Road
Condition: Clear and perfect
Winding its way between Highway 141 and 518, Tally-Ho Swords Road is a short yet delightful ribbon of smooth pavement, looking remarkably pristine, surrounded by shades of spring green. It is enjoyable on any bike but perfect for the rider who appreciates large, sweeping curves.
Ravenscliffe Road
Condition: The east half is perfect; the west has rough pavement and a section of repaving.
Starting in Huntsville, the ride is pure pleasure. Road conditions couldn’t be better. As Ravenscliffe Road turns into Stisted Road, conditions deteriorate, and sections of rough pavement occur. As you approach the western end, repaving is underway, so expect sections of gravel and potentially soft road conditions.
Muskoka Road 3 – Aspdin Road
Condition: Excellent
Connecting the village of Rosseau and Huntsville is a reason this road is in the top ten list: fun, fun, fun. Muskoka Road 3 – Aspdin Road is known to flood in the spring, but not this year; it is dry, clear and good to go.
Muskoka Beach Road
Condition: Good
Stretching between Gravenhurst and Bracebridge, Muskoka Beach Road is enjoyable, but it can get busy with traffic. A few sections of bumpy pavement will keep you on your toes, but overall, the road has withstood winter well and remains a fun ride.
Highway 632 – Peninsula Road
Condition: Excellent
This picturesque route features numerous twists and turns, as well as ups and downs, ensuring a smile-inducing experience. The roadway is clear and ready to ride. The well-known Crossroads Restaurant in Rosseau is an excellent spot for lunch, but be sure to verify the opening hours to confirm it’s open.
Highway 520
Condition: Excellent
Big sweepers and big views make the ride between Burk’s Falls and Magnetawan memorable. In Magnetawan, the Magnetawan Snack Bar, Magnetawan Grill, and The Bears Den food truck make it a perfect lunch destination.
Highway 35
Condition: Excellent
The ride between Highway 118 and 60 twists and turns between rock and water. Although close in the spring, once open to the public, the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower is a worthy stop for a fantastic view of the area and the charming village of Dwight, where you can find food and gas.
Highway 141
Condition: Excellent
We had the pleasure of experiencing Highway 141 at its traffic-free best. Granted, it was midweek in May. That said, this road can get busy on weekends. The good news is that there is no construction to slow things down. No matter which direction you travel, Highway 141, Bracebridge, Rosseau, or Parry Sound all make great destinations.
Highway 522
Condition: Good
I love the remote vibe of this road as it traverses the northern part of the Great Canadian Wilderness between Highways 11 and 69. While the eastern end features a collection of perfect sweepers on excellent pavement, the western half of the route has sections of rough pavement and, during our spring ride, some potholes. If you ride a bike that requires premium gasoline, you can fill up at the gas pump at Buchanan’s Hardware in Port Loring. For lunch, I recommend either Roxie’s Diner or Jake’s Place Restaurant.
Notes From The Road
The Great Canadian Wilderness comprises the regions of Muskoka, Algonquin, Parry Sound, Loring-Restoule, South Algonquin and the Almaguin Highlands. The area is laced with perfect roads for motorcycle touring. Riding all ten roads listed here will add approximately 1,500 kilometres to your odometer when starting from Toronto, making for a couple of long days on the bike or a perfect long weekend.
On day one, we ended the ride with a delicious meal at Trestle Brewing Company before checking in for the night at the Best Western Plus in Parry Sound. The hotel’s location is ideal, as it is positioned just off the highway for easy access. There are dining options within walking distance of the hotel, and gas is available as you leave the hotel parking lot.
On day two, we enjoyed a very comfortable stay at the new Tru By Hilton Bracebridge. There are a few dining options within a walk of the hotel, with more available downtown in Bracebridge. A late lunch at The Old Station was excellent and so filling that we were set for the rest of the day.
This past winter was harsh and lengthy, but that’s in the past, and riding season is here. I am happy to announce The Great Canadian Wilderness is ready to ride.
See you out there!
For more tourism information while you’re travelling in the region and to plan our stay, visit GreatCanadianWilderness.ca
Guest Blogger/Rider: Martin Lortz
Martin Lortz is a seasoned explorer, photographer, and writer passionate about outdoor adventure. With his talent for freezing unforgettable moments on camera, he has become a go-to photographer for all things power sports in Ontario. However, Martin’s interests extend far beyond power sports, and he is equally skilled at capturing outdoor activities, including RVing, cycling, paddling, fishing, hiking, and camping.To see more of Martin’s photography, visit www.lortzphoto.com. You can also follow his adventures on www.CreakingOn.com.