Elliot Lake

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Elliot Lake's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Local Trails
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the Heron Trails for a refreshing hike. The well-marked boardwalks wind through marshlands where you can spot native birds and blooming wildflowers. Pause frequently to breathe in the crisp morning air and enjoy panoramic views of Elliot Lake.

afternoon
:

After returning to town, grab a picnic lunch and drive to Beaver Lake Conservation Area. Spend the afternoon strolling along gentle pathways, hopping across stepping stones and relaxing by the water’s edge. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for photography or a quiet moment of reflection.

evening
:

Dine lakeside at one of Elliot Lake’s waterfront restaurants where you can sample fresh local fare. As the sun dips below the horizon, take a short walk along the pier and watch the sky ignite in shades of orange and pink. Cap off your evening with lakeside stargazing or a warm cup of coffee by an outdoor fire pit.

day 2
Water Adventures
morning
:

Start with a guided kayak tour on Elliot Lake, learning basic paddling techniques and local lore from an experienced instructor. Glide across the glassy water as the morning mist rises, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Keep an eye out for loons and muskrats as you explore hidden coves.

afternoon
:

Switch gears to stand-up paddleboarding on a calm bay, enjoying the challenge of balance and the sensation of skimming the water’s surface. Take a break for a lakeside snack while soaking up the summer sun. Afterwards, test the ropes on a nearby rope swing before plunging into the cool, inviting water.

evening
:

Return your gear and head to a brewery or pub downtown for refreshing craft beers and light appetizers. After dinner, join a sunset canoe trip organized by a local outfitter, paddling gently as golden rays dance on the lake. End the day with a lakeshore bonfire and s’mores under the stars.

day 3
Fishing Expedition
morning
:

Rise early to meet your charter boat captain on the dock for a half-day fishing excursion. Head out onto Elliot Lake seeking trophy-sized northern pike and walleye in the prime morning hours. Enjoy coffee and fresh pastries on board as you learn fish-finding secrets and casting tips.

afternoon
:

Return to shore around lunch and visit a local tackle shop to stock up on bait and gear for a shore-fishing session at Lockhart Lake. Set up your rod by the rocky shoreline and try catching bass or pike while you soak in the midday sun. When the fish bite slows, relax on a nearby rock with a packed lunch and swap fishing stories with fellow anglers.

evening
:

Invite your charter captain to help fillet the day’s catch at your accommodation if possible, and hold an intimate fish fry on your deck or patio. Savor your freshly caught meal alongside seasonal vegetables and crisp salads. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood lake before turning in for a restful night.

day 4
Mining Heritage Tour
morning
:

Fuel up with a hot breakfast before heading to the Elliot Lake Mining Museum to explore exhibits on local uranium mining history. Wander through restored mine tunnels and view authentic mining equipment used by early workers. Interactive displays bring stories of hardship and innovation to life.

afternoon
:

Join a guided bus tour of decommissioned mine sites on the outskirts of town, learning about environmental reclamation and the region’s transition to tourism. Stop at scenic overlooks to photograph dramatic rock faces and reclamation ponds. Enjoy an on-site lunch served by a catered food truck near the historic mill.

evening
:

Visit the arena where local historians host a multimedia presentation and talk about town heritage over light refreshments. Engage in Q&A to deepen your understanding of Elliot Lake’s transformation. Finish the evening with a casual ghost tour along the old railway corridor under lamplit skies.

day 5
Island Picnic
morning
:

Rent a small motorboat or book a guided water taxi to Moore and Macpherson Islands. Pack a picnic breakfast of fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee to enjoy on the boat as you head out. Watch for osprey diving for fish along the way.

afternoon
:

Anchor at a secluded island beach and spread out a gourmet picnic prepared by a local deli. Spend the afternoon swimming, beachcombing for smooth stones, or relaxing under the shade of pines. Explore walking paths that lead to quiet coves and hidden viewpoints over the lake.

evening
:

Return to Elliot Lake in time for sunset and change into dry clothes before heading to a waterfront patio for dinner. Choose from fresh seafood or regional specialties while you listen to live acoustic music. End the evening strolling along the shoreline and enjoying the reflected moonlight on the water.

day 6
Culture and Community
morning
:

Visit the Elliot Lake Visitor Centre to pick up artisan crafts, local honey, and handmade souvenirs. Chat with friendly staff to learn about upcoming community events and seasonal festivals. Enjoy a mid-morning snack of local baked goods and coffee from an in-house café.

afternoon
:

Head to the local art gallery to browse rotating exhibitions showcasing Northern Ontario painters and sculptors. Try your hand at a drop-in pottery or watercolor workshop led by a regional artist. Afterward, explore downtown shops, stopping at a bookstore or a boutique for unique finds.

evening
:

Attend a community concert or theater performance held at the local arena or civic center. Experience live music ranging from folk to jazz, often featuring talented local ensembles. Post-show, grab a late-night treat at a dessert bar or ice cream parlor before heading back to your lodging.

day 7
Birdwatching and Photography
morning
:

Rise before dawn and drive to the Beaver Lake Conservation Area for a guided birdwatching walk. Scan the treetops and marshes with binoculars to spot herons, kingfishers, and warblers. The early light provides ideal conditions for crisp nature photography.

afternoon
:

After brunch, continue your birding expedition at Lindsay Creek Wetlands, where a well-constructed boardwalk leads through varied habitats. Keep your camera ready for sightings of great blue herons, red-winged blackbirds, and seasonal migrants. Pause on observation platforms to sketch or journal your observations in tranquil silence.

evening
:

Return to town to upload and review your photographs while enjoying a light meal at a café with free Wi-Fi. Share your best shots on social media or in an online birding forum. Wrap up the day with a sunset walk along the lake shore to capture golden-hour images of the water.

day 8
Golf and Spa Retreat
morning
:

Tee off at Challenge Valley Golf and Country Club for an 18-hole round surrounded by lush forests and rolling fairways. Enjoy the fresh morning air and early sun as you navigate each challenging hole. Reward yourself with coffee and pastries at the clubhouse halfway through.

afternoon
:

Head back to town for a relaxing spa treatment at a local wellness center, choosing from massages, facials, or hot stone therapies. Unwind in the sauna and steam room before enjoying a light spa lunch in a tranquil lounge. Take advantage of meditation classes or yoga sessions if available.

evening
:

Dine at an upscale bistro featuring locally sourced ingredients and paired wines. Sample artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal specialties in a cozy, refined setting. Conclude your evening with a nightcap by the fireplace or a moonlit stroll on the club’s scenic grounds.

day 9
Mountain Biking Excursion
morning
:

Drive to Searchmont Resort for an adrenaline-packed morning of downhill and cross-country mountain biking. Rent a high-quality bike and protective gear before tackling trails suited to your skill level. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior in the distance as you ride through mixed forest.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a mountain-top café offering sandwiches and energy bars with a view. Spend the afternoon exploring additional trails or try a guided enduro session to hone your technical riding skills. Take breaks at scenic overlooks to hydrate and soak in the natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Elliot Lake and treat sore muscles to a soak in a hot tub or jacuzzi at your accommodation. Order a hearty dinner downtown featuring pasta or stir-fry to replenish your energy. Finish the day with a laid-back movie night or board games with fellow travelers.

day 10
Culinary Farewell
morning
:

Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodging or a nearby café known for its homemade pastries. Stroll through the Saturday morning farmers’ market to pick up seasonal produce, baked goods, and hand-crafted preserves. Chat with vendors to learn their stories and cooking tips.

afternoon
:

Join a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef, preparing regional dishes such as wild rice salad, roasted fish, and berry desserts. Savor your creations alongside fellow participants over friendly conversation and wine. Before leaving, pick up a cookbook and fresh ingredients to recreate the flavors of Elliot Lake at home.

evening
:

Cap off your trip with a special dinner at a fine-dining restaurant downtown, featuring tasting menus paired with Canadian wines or craft beers. Toast to your adventure overlooking the lake one last time during golden-hour lighting. Return to your room for a restful night, dreaming of your next return to Elliot Lake.

Discover Elliot Lake

Read more in our Elliot Lake 2025 Travel Guide.

Elliot Lake Travel Guide