Map of Northern Ontario

About Northern Ontario

Northern Ontario represents the vast wilderness region covering over 800,000 square kilometers, comprising approximately 87% of Ontario's total land area but home to only about 6% of the province's population. This expansive territory extends from the northern shores of Lake Huron and Lake Superior to the remote coastlines of Hudson Bay and James Bay, encompassing some of Canada's most pristine boreal forests, countless lakes, and mineral-rich terrain.

The region is anchored by several significant urban centers, each with distinct economic and cultural identities. Thunder Bay, the largest city in Northwestern Ontario, serves as a crucial transportation hub and port city on Lake Superior. Sudbury, known globally as the "Nickel Capital of the World," dominates the mining sector in Northeastern Ontario. Other important communities include Timmins, a historic gold mining center; North Bay, gateway to the near north; Sault Ste. Marie at the St. Mary's River; and smaller cities like Kenora, Elliot Lake, and Kirkland Lake that contribute to the region's mining and forestry heritage.

Northern Ontario's economy traditionally relies on natural resource extraction—mining, forestry, and hydroelectric power generation—along with tourism centered around outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, and wilderness experiences. The region features extensive highway networks including the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17), Highway 11 running north-south, and Highway 101 connecting eastern communities. Despite its sparse population density, Northern Ontario's vast geography, natural wealth, and cultural diversity make it an essential part of Ontario's identity and economy.

Major Cities in Northern Ontario

• Thunder Bay - Regional hub and port city
• Greater Sudbury - Mining capital and largest northern city
• Timmins - Gold mining heritage center
• North Bay - Gateway to Northern Ontario
• Sault Ste. Marie - Border city on St. Mary's River
• Kenora - Lake of the Woods tourism center
• Elliot Lake - Former uranium mining town
• Kirkland Lake - Historic mining community