Vermilion Bay, Ontario, is a charming unincorporated community nestled on the shores of Eagle Lake in the township of Machin, Kenora District. This northwestern Ontario gem is conveniently located on Ontario Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway), between the cities of Kenora and Dryden.
The history of Vermilion Bay, Ontario, is deeply intertwined with the Hudson's Bay Company, which had a post on Eagle Lake. The company's archives refer to Vermilion Station on the Canadian Pacific Railway. In 1881, Vermilion Bay served as a construction camp for railway workers. By 1902, Vermilion Bay station was instrumental in sending materials to the ongoing construction of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, which later became part of the Canadian National Railway.
The early 1900s saw the establishment of a one-room school in 1903 and the first survey of the township in 1906. This period also witnessed gold and soapstone mining on the southwest shore of Eagle Lake, with Vermilion Bay acting as a supply centre. The 1930s brought activity with the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway, and the 1940s saw a surge in the forest industry, with Vermilion Bay station playing a significant role.
Tourist camps began to proliferate as the 1940s progressed, many of which are still in operation today. The Naden Boat factory, which operated from 1974 to 2011, brought economic activity to the area. Granite quarrying, which began in the 1950s at a site just west of Vermilion Bay, continues to this day.
Vermilion Bay, Ontario, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Popular fishing locations in the area include Eagle Lake, the Indian Lake Chain, Clay Lake, Canyon Lake, Cedar Lake, and Perrault Lake.
Vermilion Bay, Ontario, serves as the southern terminus for both Ontario Highway 105, leading north to the town of Red Lake, and Ontario Highway 647, heading northwest to Blue Lake Provincial Park. The community is served by Vermilion Bay Airport and Vermilion Bay Water Aerodrome.
The Canadian Pacific Railway transcontinental main line passes through the community, and the CPR operates a bulk forest products facility in the community. However, there is no passenger service.
