Drive through the Madawaska Highlands on a guided three‑hour ATV and UTV tour with lunch included. Expect fire roads, rocky ridges, lakeside viewpoints and hands‑on training from local guides.
Drive through the Madawaska Highlands on a guided three‑hour ATV and UTV tour with lunch included. Expect fire roads, rocky ridges, lakeside viewpoints and hands‑on training from local guides.
The first rev of an ATV cuts through cold morning air as spruce and maple lean close to the trail, the lake ahead flashing like a dare. On this guided three‑hour ride through the Madawaska Highlands you’ll drive side-by-sides and ride fire roads that climb low, rocky ridges, then thread into tight forest corridors that open onto secluded lakeshores.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tom Irwin Adventure Tours · Calabogie, Ontario
The first rev of an ATV cuts through cold morning air as spruce and maple lean close to the trail, the lake ahead flashing like a dare. On this guided three‑hour ride through the Madawaska Highlands you’ll drive side-by-sides and ride fire roads that climb low, rocky ridges, then thread into tight forest corridors that open onto secluded lakeshores.
The Highlands are carved from ancient Precambrian rock and shaped by glaciers; you’ll feel the terrain change beneath your wheels as smooth bedrock gives way to loam and roots. The area has long been used for logging and small‑scale settlement—today the trails follow old logging roads and access corridors that reveal both the geological bones and local outdoor culture.
Guides customize routes to your comfort level, pointing out beaver ponds, turtle‑lined beaches, and deer tracks while you learn vehicle handling. Lunch is included, and the outfit supplies helmets, gloves and training—helmets and gloves must be worn at all times. The tour is family‑friendly (minimum age 8) and accessible to many fitness levels because you drive, but expect bumps, occasional steep grades and wet crossings.
Practical tips: wear closed‑toe footwear and layered synthetic clothing, bring sunscreen and a refillable water bottle, and plan for variable weather—late morning departures catch better light and more active wildlife. Cancelations require 24 hours’ notice. This ride balances off‑road excitement with comfortable logistics, ideal for travelers based in Calabogie or making a day trip from Ottawa.
moderate.
3 hours.
Suitable for most people in reasonable health; you’ll be driving but should be able to mount/dismount and handle uneven terrain.
No—guides provide training on the provided ATVs/UTVs and adjust routes to match comfort levels; basic coordination is helpful.
Participants must be at least 8 years old; children may ride as passengers or drive under instructor guidance where permitted.
Yes—the outfitter supplies helmets and gloves that are cleaned between uses and must be worn at all times.
Tours may be canceled for bad weather; for a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Trails often follow old logging roads and access routes used since the 19th century; Calabogie developed around lakeside mills and recreation.
Stick to marked trails to reduce erosion and protect shoreline vegetation; the operator emphasizes small group sizes and leave‑no‑trace practices.
Tom Irwin Adventure Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The first rev of an ATV cuts through cold morning air as spruce and maple lean close to the trail, the lake ahead flashing like a dare. On this guided three‑hour ride through the Madawaska Highlands you’ll drive side-by-sides and ride fire roads that climb low, rocky ridges, then thread into tight forest corridors that open onto secluded lakeshores.
The first rev of an ATV cuts through cold morning air as spruce and maple lean close to the trail, the lake ahead flashing like a dare. On this guided three‑hour ride through the Madawaska Highlands you’ll drive side-by-sides and ride fire roads that climb low, rocky ridges, then thread into tight forest corridors that open onto secluded lakeshores.
The Highlands are carved from ancient Precambrian rock and shaped by glaciers; you’ll feel the terrain change beneath your wheels as smooth bedrock gives way to loam and roots. The area has long been used for logging and small‑scale settlement—today the trails follow old logging roads and access corridors that reveal both the geological bones and local outdoor culture.
Guides customize routes to your comfort level, pointing out beaver ponds, turtle‑lined beaches, and deer tracks while you learn vehicle handling. Lunch is included, and the outfit supplies helmets, gloves and training—helmets and gloves must be worn at all times. The tour is family‑friendly (minimum age 8) and accessible to many fitness levels because you drive, but expect bumps, occasional steep grades and wet crossings.
Practical tips: wear closed‑toe footwear and layered synthetic clothing, bring sunscreen and a refillable water bottle, and plan for variable weather—late morning departures catch better light and more active wildlife. Cancelations require 24 hours’ notice. This ride balances off‑road excitement with comfortable logistics, ideal for travelers based in Calabogie or making a day trip from Ottawa.