Best Hiking Trails in Algonquin Provincial Park

Overview

Ontario's first provincial park and one of Canada's largest, Algonquin Provincial provides a huge variety ecosystems, from pitcher-plant-dotted wetlands to dense evergreen forest. Hikers here can spot moose, black bears, beavers, and wolves, as well as over 270 species of birds.

Algonquin also encompasses the headwaters of five major rivers. That makes the park an ideal spot for fishing and canoeing as well as hiking, camping, and backpacking

Getting Started

Algonquin is a huge park, so there are many entry points. Some of the most easily accessed are the towns of Whitney, Ontario, and Dwight, Ontario, both of which sit along Highway 60, which runs through the park. You can find more specific directions from a variety of nearby locations on the Algonquin Provincial Park web page.

For an easy loop, try the fairly flat, 3.4-mile Rosepond Lake Loop.

Prefer a little more geological history? Take a walk around one of the world's most famous meteorite craters on the 2.0-km Brent Crater Trail.

For a bigger adventure, follow the Western Highlands Backpacking Trail past Maple Leaf, Steeprise, Maggie, Oak, and Ramona lakes for a forested 18-mile loop.

The park publishes a variety of resources, including updated weather forecasts—always be sure to check before you go.

When to Go

July and August are the most popular months for visiting Algonquin, but the park is open year-round. To avoid the crowds, go in spring (April-May) for wildlife watching, or catch the sugar maples turning crimson in late September to early October.

Permits

Permits are required for both day use and overnight use. You can also purchase a seasonal pass if you're a frequent visitor.

Dog Info

Dogs are allowed only in certain areas of Algonquin National Park. Check the park website for a full list of the trails and campgrounds where dogs are not permitted.