Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is a major port city and the recognised "gateway" to the wild nature of the province of Ontario, situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Superior in Canada. This destination attracts travellers with its unique combination of developed urban infrastructure and immediate proximity to majestic, untouched natural landscapes.

If you are planning to visit this region, getting there will not be difficult. The city boasts excellent transport accessibility: you can fly here comfortably by plane, arrive by bus, or drive by car, enjoying the views along the way. Thunder Bay serves as the ideal starting point for those wishing to explore the beauty of the Canadian North.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air transport. The city is served by its own Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT), which is a vital transport hub for the entire northwest of the province of Ontario.

The airport receives regular flights from major cities across the country. Most often, travellers arrive here via connecting or direct flights from Toronto or Winnipeg. A flight from Toronto usually takes about two hours. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, which can be quickly reached upon arrival by taxi or rental car.

Direct passenger railway connections to the city of Thunder Bay are absent. Despite railways playing an important role in the region's history, it is currently impossible to arrive here by train: the city does not have an operating station for regular passenger services.

The nearest station of the national VIA Rail network is located in the settlement of Armstrong, situated approximately 250 kilometres to the north, deep within the forests. Such a significant distance makes travelling by train extremely impractical, as organising a transfer from the station to the city would be difficult and expensive. Considering these factors, the train is a completely unsuitable option for travelling to this part of Canada.

For travellers preferring ground transport, bus services remain an accessible way to reach the city of Thunder Bay. Following changes in the transport market and the departure of Greyhound Canada, the key role in the region is played by the company Ontario Northland, which ensures transport links with other parts of the province and neighbouring regions.

Buses run both from the western direction (from Winnipeg) and from the east — from Eastern Ontario via Sault Ste. Marie. The trip from Winnipeg usually takes about 8–9 hours. Routes from the east are significantly longer and are suitable for those willing to spend a lot of time on the road to save on their budget. Such a journey along the roads of Canada allows you to witness the changing natural landscapes: from endless forests to the rocky shores of Lake Superior.

For most tourists, the main route is the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 11/17), on which Thunder Bay is located. This main road artery connects the city with the west of the country (from Winnipeg) and the east (from Sault Ste. Marie). Travelling along this highway is an excellent way to reach your destination while enjoying a comfortable drive and views of Canadian nature.

A drive from the USA side will also gift you unforgettable views of dense northern forests and the picturesque coastline of Lake Superior. The journey from Hancock will take about 4 hours, during which you will cover approximately 330 kilometres, while the road from Ironwood will last about 4.5 hours covering a distance of 380 kilometres.

If you are departing from Marquette, expect to spend about 5–6 hours behind the wheel to cover a distance of 480 kilometres. Since the routes involve crossing the border, a taxi ride would cost a significant sum, so renting a car remains the most practical and comfortable option for such journeys.

Preparing for a trip to Thunder Bay will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to focus on the beauty of the region. Here are several useful recommendations that will make your journey comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is quite severe, so even in summer, it is worth taking a windbreaker and a warm sweater: evenings by Lake Superior can be cool. In winter, high-quality warm clothing, thermal underwear, and non-slip footwear are essential, as frosts and snowfall are common occurrences for this region.
2. Getting Around the City. Thunder Bay covers a large territory, and many interesting natural sites are located on the outskirts. Although the Thunder Bay Transit bus network operates in the city, the most convenient method of movement for a tourist remains a rental car, which provides freedom of action.
3. Finances and Tipping. The official currency is the Canadian Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from hotels to small cafes, but having a little cash for minor expenses is helpful. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip in the amount of 15–20% of the bill total.
4. Health and Safety. This is a calm city, however, as everywhere, it is better not to leave valuables unattended. If you plan hikes in the forest, be sure to use insect repellent (there are many mosquitoes and gnats here) and carry a basic first aid kit. The emergency telephone number is 911.
5. Language Barrier. The main language of communication is English. Despite French being the second official language in Canada, it is rarely used in this region. Locals speak quite clearly, and basic knowledge of English will be quite sufficient.
6. Local Etiquette. The residents of the city are distinguished by their friendliness and politeness. It is customary here to hold doors for those following, to respect queues, and to frequently use the word "sorry" even in minor situations. Loud conversations in public places are not encouraged.
7. What to Avoid. Do not underestimate wild nature: do not attempt to feed animals encountered on the highway or in parks, especially bears and deer. It is also not recommended to swim in Lake Superior without preparation — the water remains icy even at the height of summer heat.
8. Unique Experience. Thunder Bay is known for its amethyst mines. Instead of buying standard magnets, visit one of the quarries in the vicinity of the city, where you can personally find and dig up a beautiful purple stone as a keepsake.

These simple tips will help you easily adapt to the local rhythm of life and get the maximum pleasure from your trip. Enjoy your journey, for this city knows how to surprise with its hospitality and natural riches.