Check the OFSC website for permits & up-to-date trail maps.
Buy Your Permit
Ride the North
It’s no secret that chasing the snow up north has been a tried and true tradition for generations of snowmobilers—riders head north to enjoy an authentic Canadian experience. You want to be in a place that is as serious about snowmobiling as you are. You want crisp, white pow so deep it makes your stomach flip. You want trails so long and smooth that you forget there's a world beyond you and your machine and the trail.
The North is that place. It is the place that calls all those who seek more than just riding. It is as much a state of mind as it is a geographical destination. The North is the pinnacle of a snowmobiler’s experience. It is here and it is now, and it is ready for you.
Our snowmobiling region is located in Northeastern Ontario, Canada, one of the world's snowiest destinations. Our trails are part of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) District 14 and District 15. We're a short drive from the cities of Sudbury and North Bay and around 6 hours from Ottawa and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and our staging cities and towns of Cochrane, Timmins, and Smooth Rock Falls are the perfect base for a day (or three) of world-class sledding. Our main attraction is the epic Gateway to the North Loop—a world-class touring route that's a favourite among sledders in the know.
Learn more about the OFSC districts that are part of Ride the North:
- Timiskaming Abitibi Trail Association (OFSC District 14)
- Northern Corridor Du Nord (OFSC District 15)
Why Ride The North?
- Our thousands of kilometres of trails are perfectly groomed by an incredible community of passionate volunteers.
- Our riding season is one of the longest in Canada.
- Our local businesses cater to snowmobiles—from restaurants and lodges to gas stations. You'll be welcomed with open arms.
- Our loops are planned for maximum fun and awe-inspiring scenery.
- Our trails are easy to navigate with enhanced on-trail signage and wayfinding.
- Our wilderness is truly epic. If you're looking for a real, authentic Canadian snowmobiling experience, you've got to Ride the North.
The Snowmobile Routes
More routes coming soon!
Staging Communities
Cochrane
Latitude: 49.064879822855254
Longitude: -81.02997791830424
If you're looking for a sledding town, then Cochrane is your place. This town is perfect to stage out of with its hotels, restaurants, gas, powersports dealers and suppliers; all easily accessible by snowmobile. With snow arriving early, and staying late into the season, this is your destination to plan a trip on the surrounding 500 kilometres of trails maintained by the Cochrane Polar Bear Riders snowmobile club.
Smooth Rock Falls
Latitude: 49.2731238135066
Longitude: -81.61953153849595
Home of 220 kilometres of trails that are snow-packed, groomed and maintained by the Arctic Riders Snowmobile Club who take great pride in their award-winning trails. A motel and restaurants allow you to stage out of this town.
Timmins
Latitude: 48.47606996348928
Longitude: -81.33097011802467
Timmins is one of the few cities in Ontario that allows access to many accommodation properties, restaurants, gas stations and shopping from several designated and business-friendly trails. The Timmins Snowmobile Club maintains over 440 km of groomed trails in the area.
World's Best Approved
Become a "World’s Best Approved" Snowmobile Destination
Northeastern Ontario is a preferred destination for snowmobilers—consistent snow, thousands of kilometres of groomed OFSC trails, and warm hospitality from family-owned lodges and businesses have made this an essential pilgrimage for riders in the know.
Explore Businesses & Operators Nearby
- Timmins
- Cochrane
- Riding the North
Loading...
OFSC Interactive Trail Guide
Check the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide for the latest trail conditions and information.
Our partners
None of this would be possible if it weren’t for the dedicated clubs and volunteers who are committed to making this the world’s best snowmobile destination. A tip of the helmet, a round of hot chocolates or a trail side chat are always welcomed to say thanks to those that make it all possible.
