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Already being in Northeastern Ontario for my Kirkland Lake fall ride, my assistant and I decided to extend the adventure by a couple of days, opting to explore Timmins by motorcycle, something I’d yet to experience. Of all the times I’ve come to the city best known for Shania Twain and a rich mining history, it’s typically been by car or snowmobile. Fall brings out the best in this region, and Timmins proved to be an accessible, energetic destination no matter what method of transportation you choose.
Arrival, Coffee and First Impressions in Downtown Timmins
We kicked things off at Ciao Sandwich Co., the kind of spot that embraces travellers while serving up strong coffee and stacked sandwiches. Riding through downtown didn’t feel hectic. Timmins is inviting to two-wheeled explorers, and we quickly settled into the rhythm of the trip.
Gillies Lake Park was next. The crisp air and brilliant leaves made for a perfect walk, with lakeside trails to get the blood flowing after a couple of hours of seat time. The boardwalk there is a favourite for locals and visitors alike, and it was great to see a few fellow riders taking in the scenery.
Exploring the Hollinger Gold Mine—Timmins’ Golden Legacy
At Hollinger Park, we got a close-up look at Timmins’ active open-pit gold mine, a reminder of the city’s storied past and ongoing modern-day gold rush as the precious metal reaches all-time historic highs. For this reason, mining is still a big deal in Timmins, and standing at the edge of all that activity gave us a sense of the city's enduring spirit.
Paddling the Mattagami River with Timmins Adventure Tours
Our ride led downtown for something different: Neither my assistant nor I had ever been kayaking, so we decided to paddle down the Mattagami River. Timmins Adventure Tours set us up with a rental unit and plenty of helpful instructions. It was a refreshing change from twisting a throttle, a new perspective to see local sights. Timmins Adventure Tours is located right on the Mattagami, making for extremely easy access, with a welcoming staff for those ready to try a different kind of exploration.
Lunch at Radical Gardens: Local Flavour in the Heart of Timmins
Lunch brought us to Radical Gardens, a local favourite known for its inventive, fresh fare. Whether you go for plant-based options or classic comfort food, the menu hits the mark for hungry riders. It’s places like these that showcase Timmins’ creative and welcoming atmosphere.
A Journey Through Timmins History at the Timmins Museum
We dove into local history at the Timmins National Exhibition Centre, where mining exhibits and Northern artwork bring the community’s story to life. There’s plenty for curious visitors, and the layout makes it simple to wander through at your own pace after a day of riding.
Stay and Explore at Cedar Meadows Resort & Wolf Cabins, Timmins
We opted to stay at Cedar Meadows Resort over the more ‘sterile’ feeling chain hotels. The wildlife tour was a highlight for both of us as we were welcomed to hand-feed elk, deer, and bison while learning about local conservation efforts. The new wolf cabins—glass-fronted lodges where visitors can spend the night inside the wolf enclosure—are drawing travellers from across the globe, creating a unique Timmins experience that stands out in the region. Hearing timber wolves howling just outside was unforgettable, and knowing this is now a viral destination added an extra layer of excitement to our visit.
Why Timmins Belongs on Your Northern Ontario Motorcycle Map
Through every stop, Timmins proved its appeal to motorcycle touring fans. The roads are smooth, attractions are close together, and the atmosphere combines energy and relaxation without feeling overcrowded. For anyone riding through Northeastern Ontario, Timmins is a vibrant destination worth adding to the itinerary.
