Lake Nipissing, Ontario: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Lake Nipissing is the fourth largest lake entirely within Ontario’s boundaries, spanning an impressive 873 km² (337 sq mi), yet averages only 4.5 m (15 ft) in depth? This fascinating shallow giant has been a vital waterway for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with its name “Nbissing” translating to “little water” in Anishinaabe—a humble description when early traders compared it to the Great Lakes. Today, this expansive lake offers visitors an incredible array of activities throughout all four seasons, making it one of Northern Ontario’s most versatile destinations.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Lake Nipissing is conveniently located in Northeastern Ontario, with North Bay serving as the primary gateway city on its eastern shore. For travelers flying in, North Bay Jack Garland Airport (YYB) offers regular connections to Toronto, or you can fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport and make the 3.5-hour drive north.

By car, Lake Nipissing is accessible via Highway 11 and Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway), which intersect at North Bay. From Toronto, the drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, while Ottawa is about 4 hours away. For those without a vehicle, renting a car is highly recommended to fully explore the lake’s diverse shorelines and attractions.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Best Time to Visit Lake Nipissing

Weather Tips

Lake Nipissing’s weather can change rapidly, especially in spring and fall. The lake’s large size creates its own microclimate, often generating strong winds that can affect boating conditions. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, so always check weather forecasts before heading out on the water. In winter, dress in layers as temperatures can drop significantly, particularly with wind chill factors across the open lake.

Getting Around Locally

Exploring Lake Nipissing and its surrounding communities requires some planning. While North Bay offers public transit within city limits, most lake attractions require personal transportation. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for visiting different shores of the lake.

For water-based exploration, boat rentals are available in North Bay, Callander, and Sturgeon Falls. The Chief Commanda II cruise ship offers scheduled tours of Lake Nipissing from North Bay’s waterfront, providing a relaxing way to see the lake’s highlights without navigating yourself.

In winter, the lake becomes a highway for snowmobiles, with well-maintained trails connecting various communities. Snowmobile rentals and guided tours are available for visitors wanting to experience this popular local mode of transportation.

Where to Stay

Lake Nipissing offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From lakeside resorts to cozy cottages, here are the best places to stay around the lake:

Dining & Local Cuisine

The Lake Nipissing region offers a delicious blend of Northern Ontario classics, French-Canadian influences, and Indigenous cuisine. Here are some must-try dining experiences around the lake:

Local Specialties

• Fresh Walleye: Lake Nipissing is famous for its walleye (pickerel), served pan-fried, battered, or as fish and chips at most lakeside restaurants.
• French-Canadian Fare: Don’t miss the cabbage rolls and pastries at Chez Jean Marc Bakery in Sturgeon Falls.
• Indigenous Cuisine: Look for restaurants serving traditional Anishinaabe dishes featuring wild rice, game meats, and foraged ingredients.

Top Dining Spots

Local Breweries

North Bay boasts two excellent craft breweries worth visiting:

• New Ontario Brewing Co.: Pub-style taproom with live music on weekends.
• Gateway City Brewery: Minimalist warehouse vibe with pinball machines and a rotating selection of craft beers.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Water Activities

Lake Nipissing’s vast waters offer endless recreation opportunities:

• Fishing: World-class walleye, pike, muskie, and bass fishing. Hire a local guide for the best spots or join an ice fishing expedition in winter.
• Boating: With numerous public launches around the lake, bringing your own boat is easy. Rentals are available in North Bay and Callander.
• Chief Commanda II Cruises: Sightseeing tours departing from North Bay’s waterfront, including sunset dinner cruises and trips to the historic French River.
• Beaches: Marathon Beach in North Bay, Centennial Park Beach in Callander, and Links Beach in Nipissing Township offer sandy shores for swimming and sunbathing.

Land-Based Attractions

• Duchesnay Falls Trails: Scenic hiking paths following a series of cascading waterfalls near North Bay.
• Cranberry Trail: An ideal place for winter hiking or snowshoeing in Callander, leading to Lake Nipissing’s shores.
• Kate Pace Way: 12-km paved trail perfect for cycling, running, or rollerblading along North Bay’s waterfront.
• Laurentian Ski Hill: Downhill skiing and snowboarding with panoramic lake views in winter.
• Campus Trails: Cross-country skiing and fat biking trails with a Lake Nipissing lookout.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Museums & Historical Sites

• Callander Bay Heritage Museum and Alex Dufresne Gallery: Originally the home of Dr. Dafoe, physician to the famous Dionne Quintuplets, this museum tells the story of the area’s history alongside rotating art exhibitions.
• North Bay Museum: Learn about Lake Nipissing’s history and North Bay’s development as a railway hub.
• Sturgeon River House Museum: Explore local history and enjoy forest trails along the Sturgeon River.
• Nipissing Village Museum: Housed in an original log church built in 1882, featuring pioneer artifacts and historical records.

Shopping & Art

• Vested Interest Trading Co.: Sustainable and fair-trade wares in Callander, housed in a beautiful barn-style shop.
• WKP Kennedy Gallery: Contemporary art exhibitions in downtown North Bay.
• Great Northern Flea Market: Year-round market in Sturgeon Falls featuring antiques, collectibles, and local artisans.
• French River Trading Post: Souvenirs, Indigenous-made gifts, and famous homemade fudge.

Annual Events & Festivals

• Summer in the Park (August): North Bay’s biggest summer festival featuring concerts, activities, and fireworks.
• Ice Fishing Championship (February): Competitive ice fishing event drawing participants from across Ontario.
• Winter Carnival (February): North Bay’s celebration of winter with ice sculptures, activities, and competitions.
• Canada Day Celebrations (July 1): Festivities at North Bay’s waterfront with live music, food vendors, and fireworks.
• Fall Colour Tours (September-October): Guided boat tours showcasing the spectacular autumn foliage around the lake.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Seasonal Outdoor Activities

Wildlife Viewing

• Trumpeter Swans: Recently reintroduced to Callander Bay, these magnificent birds can be observed from viewing platforms.
• Birdwatching: The lake’s wetlands attract numerous migratory birds, particularly in spring and fall.
• West Nipissing Wetlands: Rich ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife, accessible via boardwalks and viewing platforms.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Water Safety

• Lake Conditions: Lake Nipissing is large but shallow, making it prone to sudden, dangerous waves during windy conditions. Always check weather forecasts before boating.
• Life Jackets: Ontario law requires a properly fitted life jacket for each person on board any watercraft.
• Ice Safety: In winter, ice thickness varies across the lake. Never venture onto ice without local knowledge or guidance.

Fishing Regulations

• Fishing License: Ontario fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local bait shops.
• Catch Limits: Specific limits apply to different fish species. Check the current Ontario Fishing Regulations.
• Seasonal Restrictions: Certain species have closed seasons. Walleye (pickerel) season typically closes in mid-March and reopens in mid-May.

Local Customs

• Indigenous Lands: Lake Nipissing is the traditional territory of the Nipissing First Nation. Respect cultural sites and practices.
• Cottage Etiquette: Respect private property and maintain appropriate noise levels, particularly in cottage areas.
• Environmental Stewardship: Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles when enjoying natural areas.

Practical Travel Tips

Experience the Magic of Lake Nipissing

From its crystal-clear waters teeming with fish to its spectacular sunsets and rich cultural heritage, Lake Nipissing offers a quintessential Northern Ontario experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re casting a line for trophy walleye, exploring historic sites, hiking scenic trails, or simply relaxing on a sandy beach, this magnificent lake delivers memories that will last a lifetime. Its four distinct seasons each bring unique charms, making it a destination worth visiting again and again. So pack your sense of adventure and discover why locals have treasured this “little water” for generations—Lake Nipissing awaits!