Timmins Circle Route
Gold rush ghost towns through Ontario Shield
The Timmins Circle follows old logging and mining roads through Ontario’s gold country, connecting abandoned camps like Shining Tree and Gowganda with active operations near Kirkland Lake. Built for hauling ore and timber, these roads snake through classic Canadian Shield terrain—granite outcrops, beaver ponds, and endless black spruce. The highlight is the old Holloway Mine road, where you can still see shaft headframes and tailing piles from 1920s operations. Matachewan’s ghost town main street sits frozen in time, complete with false-front buildings and rusted mining equipment.
Easy to moderate depending on recent logging activity and seasonal conditions. Stock high-clearance vehicles handle most sections, though 4WD helps in muddy spots and creek crossings. Best tackled late spring through fall when roads dry out. No permits required but watch for active logging trucks—they own these roads. Fuel and supplies in Timmins, then you’re on your own. This is authentic Canadian mining country, the kind of territory that built the nation’s resource economy one claim at a time.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 180 mi / 289.7 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Timmins, ON |
| Land manager | Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this route, or do I need a lift?
A stock high-clearance 4WD handles it fine. The trail is rated moderate on dirt mining roads — no rock crawling, but ruts, mud, and soft shoulders after rain mean low-clearance cars and crossovers should stay home.
When does the route open after spring and is mud season a real problem up here?
Best window is late May through October. Spring breakup in Northern Ontario runs hard through April and into May — roads turn to soup and soft shoulders can swallow a tire. Wait until the ground firms up before committing to a 180-mile loop this far north.
Do I need any permits to run this route or camp along it?
No permit required to drive the route. Dispersed camping on Crown Land managed by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources is legal and free — stay 30 metres from water and don't camp on active mining claims, which you will encounter on this loop.
What's the hardest section and what actually makes it tough?
The roughest stretches are the older mining spur roads branching off the main loop — expect deep ruts, overgrown two-track, and soft ground near creek crossings. Water crossings are present and can run higher in spring or after heavy rain, so approach every one slowly and check depth before you commit.
How far is it between fuel stops, and is cell service reliable enough to call for help if something goes wrong?
Timmins is your last guaranteed fuel point before heading out — top off there. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent through most of the route, so carry a satellite communicator. Don't count on Google Maps or a cell call to save you 90 miles into the bush.
Trail track
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