5 must stays when sledding Algoma trails
The pressure builds to plan that epic snowmobile trip. There’s a lot to arrange: which routes, number of km’s or miles, departure date, booking overnight accommodation, loading the sleds into the trailer and parking the pick-up. It’s a lot to organize but so worth it when you’re ripping up the buttery smooth trails.
Algoma Country no doubt has one of the best trail systems in Ontario. It consists of over 3,000 km (2,000 miles) of meticulously maintained trails. The incredible people who call this region home want to make a memorable experience for you. Whether at the gas station, in the parking lot, at the bar, or along the trail, the locals always stop to recommend the best places to check out.
Algoma is known for its unforgettable hospitality. In the winter, these sled heads know how to make you comfortable. We’ve put together a list of the ultimate sled-friendly businesses that will make your visit to Algoma one for the 2-stroke memory bank.
1. WAWA MOTOR INN, WAWA, ON
Little Wawa has an enormous heart that matches the size of its iconic Goose. With easy access to 800 km (500 miles) of groomed trails, the Wawa Motor Inn is a great place to stage from. The first thing you’ll notice, after another huge goose, is the massive private parking lot. There’s plenty of space for your rig, convenient outdoor plugs for those brisker days and it’s close to fuel. Choose between traditional motel units or, ideal for longer stays, individual rustic cabins with real wood fireplaces that sleep 4 to 8 guests. The licensed onsite dining room is well known for its 27-foot tall fireplace. At the height of sled season, this room is full of stories (some made-up) from fellow riders about their day on the trails.
2. RELAIS MAGPIE RELAY, DUBREUILVILLE, ON
Owner, Pat Dubreuil, and his staff at Relais Magpie Relay are motorheads who know just what it is like clocking 250-mile days. This led them to design the ultimate sled-friendly accommodation. In the heart of Dubreuilville (yes, named after Pat’s family), they’ll warm you up with northern hospitality and get you ready for the next day’s ride. Upon check-in, put your sled to bed for the night in the heated garage. A workbench is available for those who played a little too hard. Use the complimentary shuttle to head to any of the restaurants in town. The Man Cave is set up for everyone to gather around and share GoPro videos or to play a round of pool. In your room, enjoy big hooks to hang your helmet and dry your socks while you warm up in the outdoor hot tub and sauna.
Add an extra day (or two) to shred the All the Way Trail to Hearst.
3. VILLA INN AND SUITES, HEARST, ON
Once you touch down in Hearst, head to the Villa Inn and Suites to chill with the cool kids. At the Inn, there’s loads of space to warm up. This location boasts many perks; fuel located next door, free breakfast, nearby restaurants, including the last McD’s and Timmies for 500 km (300 miles) and most importantly, free Wi-Fi to upload and (surely) brag about your boss sled trip on social media. When ready to eat, no need to put your lid back on. As part of the Villa’s snowmobile package, take the free shuttle to Pizza Place Bar and Grill where you can fill up and enjoy a 60 oz. pitcher. Before you head back, explore another 250 km (150 miles) of Hearst’s local loops.
4. COMPANION HOTEL MOTEL, HEARST, ON
Another destination in Hearst for the snowmobiler who is going All the Way There. The Companion has snowmobile packages for every sled head. With a secure heated garage, their dining and sports bar serves up great food and drink, there’s lots of room to park your trailer if needed. It’s close to downtown to visit local shops, too. If you’re looking to explore more than your average sled trail, book a guide to take you on an awesome sled adventure in the area. Five packages are available and include food and a stay. We like the one where you get a taste of Hearst: Loon Vodka.
5. FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES, SAULT STE. MARIE, ON
This hotel is not only a staging area with plenty of parking for your trailer but you can walk across the parking lot to eat and drink at Chuck’s Roadhouse. It’s really that simple and that’s why sled heads like it. You get complimentary breakfast and use the whirlpool after a day on the trails to relax. There’s an indoor pool and free WiFi. Rivercity Motorsports is literally down the street if you need to pop in for parts and services. Take an extra day and do the Soo Highlands Loop into the scenic Algoma Highlands.
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