Kirkland Lake, a paradise for snowmobilers!

My snowmobile trip to Kirkland Lake was an absolutely incredible experience, filled with adrenaline, discoveries and unforgettable moments.

As soon as I arrived, I was captivated by the unique atmosphere of this region where winter reigns and snowmobiling is much more than just a leisure activity: it’s a real way of life. The perfectly groomed snowy trails, the breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of the locals made this adventure even more memorable.

I had the chance to explore magnificent places, meet great people and enjoy every moment to the fullest. Between amazing discoveries and thrills, this trip far exceeded all my expectations.

One thing is for sure: Kirkland Lake is a destination of choice for snowmobile enthusiasts, and I can only recommend this experience to anyone who, like me, likes to push their limits while exploring exceptional winter landscapes.

Accessible and well-maintained trails

What really sets Kirkland Lake apart from other destinations is the freedom offered by its trail network.

Unlike many places in Quebec, here, you can travel by snowmobile almost everywhere: restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores and even hotels are accessible by snowmobile!

It’s a total immersion in the world of snowmobiling, where everything is designed to make life easier for snowmobilers.

Unique discoveries and fascinating history

In addition to snowmobiling, this trip allowed me to discover emblematic places and surprising infrastructures. During our stay, we visited impressive sites such as a vast solar panel garden, an active mine and even the Museum of Northern History, located in Sir Harry Oakes Castle.

This museum is a veritable mine of information on the geographical, cultural and economic history of the region. It highlights Kirkland Lake’s mining past, which enjoyed its golden age between 1910 and 1960 thanks to the discovery of gold in 1911. At that time, the town prospered thanks to seven active mines and had a population of nearly 25,000.

This glorious past earned it the nickname “Mile of Gold”. Although the mining industry has slowed down over the decades, Kirkland Lake retains its heritage and remains an important gold mining hub in Ontario.

The museum also hosts art exhibitions throughout the year, highlighting local, regional and international artists. A nice surprise for me, who did not expect to discover such a cultural component during a trip focused on snowmobiling!

The Ultimate Experience: Off-Trail

If I had to pick my favourite part of this trip, it would definitely be the off-piste part! Those who know me know how passionate I am about it.

One of the great things about riding in Ontario is that it is legal to leave the marked trails to go off-piste, unlike many places in Quebec where it is restricted.

So I was able to have fun in the freshly fallen snow, explore virgin glades, jump gusts and let myself be rocked in the powder before returning to the trails to continue our adventure. This kind of freedom is simply incomparable and adds an adrenaline-pumping dimension that makes the experience even more exceptional.

In addition to the pleasures of off-piste, we made several memorable stops at cozy establishments like The Bridge Inn, Federal Tavern, Muddy Moose and CJ’s Drive. At every place we were welcomed like queens, with a hospitality that makes you want to come back again and again.

Unexpected moments that make the trip unique

This trip is not just about snowmobiling. Two unexpected experiences added a unique and memorable touch to our adventure.

• First, getting a tattoo while on a snowmobile expedition! Yes, you read that right. I never imagined I would have such an experience, and yet we found a tattoo parlor ready to welcome us right away. The idea of arriving in a snowmobile outfit and leaving with a permanent souvenir is truly special, and these are the kinds of anecdotes that make a trip unforgettable. It seems that only in Kirkland Lake can you have this kind of experience!

• Then, after busy days, a little relaxation was needed. Our hotel, the Microtel, offered a pool and a spa that were perfect for relaxing after hours spent in the cold. There’s nothing better than diving into warm water after a long day of riding to relax your muscles and prepare you to go again the next day.

Kirkland Lake, a must-see destination for snowmobilers

This trip to Kirkland Lake totally won me over. Between the quality trails, the freedom to travel almost anywhere by snowmobile, the adrenaline of off-trail and the cultural richness of the region, this destination has everything to please motorized sports enthusiasts and adventure lovers.

What really sets Kirkland Lake apart is its unique atmosphere and warm welcome. Everything is designed to offer an immersive experience where snowmobiling is king. Whether you are a fan of long hikes, an off-trail enthusiast or simply looking for a winter getaway with a change of scenery, this city deserves its place among the best snowmobile destinations.

I left Kirkland Lake with memories full of my head, enriching encounters and only one desire: to return. One thing is certain, this was not my last trip there!

Josiane