4 Best Scenic Drives and Stops Along the Way

Around South Georgian Bay, The Blue Mountains and Clearview

What makes the South Georgian Bay region distinctively unique is the varied landscapes, Georgian Bay, the Niagara Escarpment, and closeness to nature. There’s a vast network of well-paved roads that immerse you into the region’s breathtakingly beautiful surroundings.

Come fall, the Niagara Escarpment bursts into colour. From firey reds to bright yellows, photo-ops abound from the side of the road. By car, motorcycle or bicycle, discover spectacular lookouts and local art, food and drink inspired by the region.

Here are four of our favourite scenic drives around South Georgian Bay, The Blue Mountains and Clearview, with suggested stops along the way.

Pretty River Valley Scenic Drive

In Thornbury, start your scenic drive by heading south on County Road 2 (from Highway 26). Turn left on County Road 31, then look for the Pretty River Valley Road on your left. Continue your journey down Pretty River Valley Road and when you reach Concession 10, turn left and look for views of Clearview on your right and the Blue Mountain ridge on your left. Turn left on Poplar Sideroad, then right on County Road 19. At Mountain Road, turn right at Mountain Road heading towards the ski hills. At the roundabout, follow the signs to Blue Mountain Village for a walk throughout the pedestrian village. Continue on County Road 119 to County Road 2 and turn right to head back to Thornbury.

Georgian Bay Shoreline Scenic Drive

Head east on Highway 26 to Meaford to explore Meaford’s lovely downtown shops and the Meaford Harbour. Go north on County Road 112/12 and get ready for expansive views at the Irish Mountain Lookout. Head back east on Highway 26 and just past the town, a stop at Grandma Lambe’s is a must. As you head further east on Highway 26, you will spot an old barn uniquely re-designed into a market. Stay on Highway 26 for a beautiful shoreline drive along Georgian Bay. Beverages and snacks await you at Shale Rock Coffee House. Head back west on Highway 26. Make a left turn on County Road 40 and get a panoramic look at the edge of Escarpment and Georgian Bay. Turn right on County Road 12 back towards Meaford. Head east on Highway 26 to Collingwood. Take County Road 124 (Hurontario St) south from Collingwood. Turn left onto Sideroad 33&34, then right on Fairgrounds Rd. You are going to be on high ground overlooking rolling farmland to the west and panoramic views of Nottawasaga Bay to the east. Look closely and you may be able to see the white sands of Wasaga Beach in the distance. Be prepared for a steep descent into the village of Creemore’s tree-lined main street with quaint shops and pubs. Get back onto County Rd 9 and head east. Turn left on County Road 10. Just ahead, stop in at the Leishman Pottery old schoolhouse. Head north again and turn left on Highway 26 to Stayner’s lovely small town streets and shops. Take Highway 26 back Collingwood then Thornbury.

Beaver Valley Scenic Drive

Begin your journey in Thornbury at the Fishway where you can watch the salmon run upstream. Head west on Highway 26. Stop for a photo at one of Meaford’s Big Red Chairs then head south on County Road 7 to the Epping Lookout for a great view of the Beaver Valley. Continue south then it’s off the asphalt to one of Grey County’s waterfall, Eugenia Falls. Head back north on County Road 13 for a snack break at the legendary Kimberley General Store. Load up on butter tarts and cool smoothies. Tour the galleries and then continue back to Thornbury.

Clearview Scenic Drice

Head east on Highway 26 to Collingwood. Take County Road 124 (Hurontario St) south from Collingwood. Turn left onto Sideroad 33&34, then right on Fairgrounds Rd. You are going to be on high ground overlooking rolling farmland to the west and panoramic views of Nottawasaga Bay to the east. Look closely and you may be able to see the white sands of Wasaga Beach in the distance. Be prepared for a steep descent into the village of Creemore’s tree-lined main street with quaint shops and pubs. Get back onto County Rd 9 and head east. Turn left on County Road 10. Just ahead, stop in at the Leishman Pottery old schoolhouse. Head north again and turn left on Highway 26 to Stayner’s lovely small town streets and shops. Take Highway 26 back Collingwood then Thornbury.