City Name
Temperature
Home » Recent posts » A Retreat to Nature: A Guide to Algonquin National Park

A Retreat to Nature: A Guide to Algonquin National Park

guide-to-algonquin-national-park

Located between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River, Algonquin Provincial Park boasts an astounding size; its total area is about 7,653 square kilometres! Moreover, here, you can find various natural landscapes—from coniferous forests to several lakes. 

The park offers a lot of fun things to do, such as hiking, swimming, and camping. If you’re planning to visit soon, you can use this article as your guide.

Things to Know

Address: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada

Contact Number: +17056335572

Website

History and Background

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Algonquin Provincial Park has had a long story. It started as a logging site for large white pine and red pine trees, but in 1893, it was established as a public park. 

This park is noted for its variety of natural landscapes. In the northern part, there’s a coniferous forest, while the southern part has a deciduous forest; in between, you can find several lakes, which were formed from the glaciers during the last ice age.

In 1992, the park was named a National Historic Site because of its heritage. Now, it’s a popular tourist destination, especially for avid adventurers and nature lovers.

How to Get There

Car: Driving is the best way to get to Algonquin Provincial Park. From Toronto, you need to travel on Highway 60. You do need to purchase a Daily Vehicle Permit to access the parking area; it costs 21 CAD per vehicle per day. 

Bus: In terms of public transportation, riding the bus is a great alternative to getting to the park. There are two bus companies that pass by the park: Ontario Northland and Parkbus. 

These two have their own departure points, and they both drop off visitors at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre.

Admission Fee

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

If you’re planning to visit Algonquin Provincial Park, you first need to buy a permit to enter the premises. You have two permit options: Day Use and Seasonal Day Use. 

Permit NameValid ForPrice
Day Use PermitOne day21 CAD
Seasonal Day Use Permit (Summer)April 1 to November 3084.75 CAD
Seasonal Day Use Permit (Winter)December 1 to March 3167.80 CAD
Annual Day Use PermitJanuary 1 to December 31111.87 CAD

Best Time to Visit

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

The best time to visit Algonquin Provincial Park is during the winter season. If you prefer buying seasonal permits, the winter version is cheaper than the summer one, but more than that, the park looks so beautiful during this time of the year. 

In fact, the park is the embodiment of a winter wonderland; snow blankets everything, making it look like the whole place is glistening. You can also enjoy exciting activities like skiing and snowboarding. 

That said, if you prefer hiking, swimming, camping, or bird watching, visiting during the summer is ideal. The temperature is warm enough, and the days are usually sunny, allowing you to explore the park to your heart’s content.

What to Do

Hike

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Considering the park’s size, it’s no wonder that hiking is one of the most popular activities here. In fact, there are currently 14 designated trails you can take, and they range in difficulty and length, so even if you’re a total beginner, you’ll be able to hike. 

No matter which trail you choose, you’ll be treated to the gorgeous scenery of nature; you might even come across some of the local wildlife along the way! 

Here are some of the hiking trails you can find in the park.

Spruce Bog Boardwalk

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Distance: 1.5 km

Difficulty: Easy

If you’re new to hiking, then you might want to start with the Spruce Bog Boardwalk. This trail is 1.5 km long, which might seem long, but the overall terrain is pretty even, so you won’t have a hard time hiking along this path.

While hiking this trail, you’ll be able to get an excellent close-up look at two spruce bogs located in the northern part of the park. These bogs hold a fascinating ecology, and if you have a guide with you, they can discuss the bogs’ ecology in depth.

Whiskey Rapids Trail

Distance: 2.1 km

Difficulty: Moderate

If you want something more challenging but not too challenging, the Whiskey Rapids Trail is worth a shot. At 2.1 km, this trail takes you along the Oxtongue River and to the scenic Whiskey Rapids. 

The Oxtongue River is home to a thriving ecosystem, and if you’re interested in ecology, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the aquatic life in the river. The river also has a long history, which a trail guide can tell you more about it. 

If you are planning to take this trail, do take note of the possibility of floods. Flooding is especially rampant during spring because that’s when the snow melts and extended heavy rains occur; because of this, you need to check weather advisories beforehand.

Hardwood Lookout Trail

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Distance: 1 km

Difficulty: Moderate 

Another moderately difficult hiking trail in Algonquin Provincial Park is the Hardwood Lookout Trail. This one takes you through the hardwood forest, which is tricky to navigate because of the uneven forest floor and the dense woods. 

Luckily, the trail isn’t that long—just 1 km—so you won’t have to struggle for too long. Plus, the end of the trail treats you to a breathtaking view of Smoke Lake and the surrounding hills, so the hiking journey feels worth it.

Big Pines Trail

Distance: 2.9 km

Difficulty: Moderate

The Big Pines Trail is a relatively long one, but the terrain is fairly level, so beginners and amateurs can give it a try. 

With this trail, you’ll find yourself amidst white pine trees, a scenery that can be serene and magical (especially during winter). Aside from this, you can also find the remains of an 1880s logging camp. 

If you’re travelling with a guide, they can tell you more about the logging history in the park.

Hemlock Bluff Trail

Distance: 3.5 km

Difficulty: Moderate

The Hemlock Bluff Trail is another long trail that’s worth it for the views you’ll get in the end. This 3.5-km-long trail starts from Highway 60 and snakes through a mixed forest until you reach Jacke Lake. 

The view of the lake is absolutely stunning. For the most majestic view, you might want to head to the bluff, which is located on the southeast side of the lake. 

Jack Lake is located at an elevation of 468 meters, so the hike might be challenging for beginners. But if you’re an amateur hiker, you’ll have no problem taking this trail.

Bat Lake Day Trail

Distance: 5.8 km

Difficulty: Moderate 

At 5.8 km, the Bat Lake Day is quite the hike. It also doesn’t help that there are several uphill sections in the trail, so if you’re new to hiking, you might easily get breathless or exhausted. 

But it’s definitely worth taking since you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful hemlock stands. The trail will also lead you to Bat Lake, which is infamous for being acidic. 

You’ll be able to find a lookout area while hiking this trail as well. From the lookout, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the park; it’s even better if you’re hiking during the early morning because you might be able to catch the sunrise.

Booth’s Rock Day Trail

Distance: 5.1 km

Difficulty: Difficult

If you’re up for a challenge, then you might want to take on Booth’s Rock Day Trail. This trail is 5.1 km long, and it’s filled with rugged terrain and a bit of elevation; if you’re hiking in the spring and autumn, you might find the area muddy as well. 

In other words, this trail is not for the faint of the heart, but once you’ve conquered, you’ll receive amazing rewards. There are two amazing lakes along this trail, and one of them is the blue expanse of Rock Lake. 

Aside from the lakes, this trail will take you through the heart of the woodlands. Being surrounded by beautiful pine trees makes you feel at ease—like you’re one with nature.

Track and Tower Trail

Distance: 7.5 km 

Difficulty: Difficult

The Track and Tower Trail is something that avid adventurers will love. The scenery changes every time; first, you’ll be lost amongst the trees, then you’ll walk along the banks of powerful rivers, and ultimately, you’ll find yourself in front of stunning waterfalls.

The terrain isn’t overly difficult, though there are definitely areas where you’ll do a lot of uphill climbing and several stretches bogged down with mud. That said, the trail is pretty long, which is why this is only recommended for experienced hikers. 

If you do take on this trail, be sure to head towards the viewpoint overlooking Cache Lake. You might have to climb the hillside, but it’s so worth it; the view is beautiful and peaceful!

Centennial Ridges Day Trail

Distance: 10.4 km

Difficulty: Difficult 

The Centennial Ridges Day Trail is one of the most demanding trails in Algonquin Provincial Park. For that reason, it’s only recommended for experienced hikers; even amateurs might have to think twice before going on this one!

This 10.4-km trail is noted for its rugged terrain and its winding lollipop route. It will also take uphill, so you really need to be physically ready before hiking here. 

If you’re experienced enough to conquer this trail, you’ll be treated to views like no other. Since you’ll be hiking at a higher elevation, you’ll be able to see a bird’s eye view of the park; you’ll also pass by several lakes, so you can swim if you want.

Mizzy Lake Day Trail

Distance: 10.8 km

Difficulty: Difficult 

At 10.8 km, the Mizzy Lake Day Trail is the longest trail in the park, and it’s definitely not for the weak. 

At first glance, the terrain doesn’t seem too bad, but then, you’ll notice that there are large stretches with uneven—and sometimes outright challenging—ground. Boggy patches, in particular, are abundant, so be mindful of them. 

The terrain notwithstanding, this trail offers serenity to hikers. You’ll be amidst tranquil woodlands, beautiful wetland areas, charming lakes, and quaint ponds; you’ll feel like adventuring somewhere else that isn’t on planet Earth.

Go for a dip in any of the lakes

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Algonquin Provincial Park is teeming with lakes of all sizes. Because of this, you’ll find a lot of options for swimming here; sometimes, you can even pause your hiking because you’ll come across a lake!

Here are some of the most popular swimming spots within the park:

  • Lake of Two Rivers. Located along Highway 60, this lake has a publicly accessible beach. There’s also a spot for picnics, so you can bring your own portable stove and ingredients. 
  • Canisbay Lake. This one has two swimming areas: one is intended for campers, and the second is for everyone else. 
  • East Beach. This is another one that’s just right off Highway 60, making it accessible to the public.

Try out a fun water sports activity

Swimming in a lake is fun and all, but if you want to make your experience even more memorable, then you should partake in a water sports activity. Canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding—you have many options, so take your pick! 

The great thing about the park is that the lakes aren’t always crowded, so you can explore the waters with ease. You can even stay in the middle of the lake for some time, just enjoying the quiet and the breeze rustling the trees on every side. 

Bringing your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard is ideal, but you can rent the equipment in the visitor centre. You can even rent them for several days if you’re planning to camp in the park.

Reel in a fish

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Calling all anglers! Algonquin Provincial Park is a perfect place for you to cast your rods and reel in some fish. 

Since the park has so many different lakes, it also houses a wide variety of aquatic life; in fact, there are about 54 different species of fish here!

Trouts, in particular, are abundant in this park; basses are a close second. Aside from them, you might also find northern pikes, muskellunge, and walleyes here. 

If you’re an Ontario resident, you don’t need to have a fishing licence to fish in Algonquin Provincial Park. However, if you live outside Ontario, you have to carry a provincial Outdoors Card and Ontario Recreational Fishing Licence. 

For more information, be sure to check this page from the official Ontario website.

Go camping

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Are you feeling tired because of your busy life? Then, it sounds like the perfect time to go camping in Algonquin Park and stay off the grid for a little while!

Currently, there are 12 developed campgrounds throughout the park, and they’re all accessible by vehicle. You can choose to pitch tents on your campground, but it’s also possible to stay inside an RV or a yurt camp instead. 

Services vary depending on the campground. Some campgrounds have electrical sites, flush toilets, and hot and cold running water, but others don’t; Canisbay Lake, Lake of Two Rivers, Mew Lake, and Pog Lake are some of the ones with all amenities. 

Another thing you need to take note of is that you need to pay a fee when camping in the park. The rates range from 42.38 CAD to 59.33 CAD nightly; if you have additional vehicles, it will be an extra 14.13 CAD every night.

Watch the birds

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Algonquin Provincial Park is also a perfect destination for avian enthusiasts! Because of the blend of different forest types, the park hosts a great diversity of bird species; some of the most commonly spotted are grey jays, spruce grouses, and boreal chickadees. 

Most bird watchers simply bring their binoculars and stay on lookout areas to spot birds. But you can also have a checklist of the birds found in this park; that way, you know what to look out for. 

If you’re interested, you can actually purchase this checklist from the park’s official website.

Visit the Algonquin Park Logging Museum

From: thefriendsofalgonquinpark

Operating Hours: From Late Jun to mid-October every year

Algonquin Provincial Park has a long logging history, and you can learn more about this by visiting the Algonquin Park Logging Museum. 

This museum traces back the history from the early square timber days to modern forestry management, so you’ll really be able to see how this park evolved throughout the years. A video presentation and outdoor exhibits are what you’ll mostly find here.

The main highlight is the 1.5-km trail near the museum. This trail immerses you as it takes you to several recreated displays of historical spots; for example, there’s a recreated camboose camp and a steam-powered amphibious tug called an alligator. 

Though the museum is only open for a few months every year, you can still access the outdoor exhibits and the trail year-round.

Go skiing

If you’re visiting during winter, then skiing is undoubtedly the main thing you can do here. Offering trail networks with 110 km in total distance, this park is one of the best places for cross-country skiing! 

Here are some of the skiing trails you can take on.

  • Fen Lake Ski Trail. Travelling through a hardwood forest, this trail has four loops that range from 1 to 18 km in length, and there are easy and challenging sections. Because of this, it’s perfect for both beginners and amateurs. 
  • Leaf Lake Ski Trail. With routes ranging from 5 to 45 km in length, this trail is best suited for experienced skiers. There are various shelters and toilets along the trail, so you can ski without worrying about where to rest. 
  • Old Railway Trail. During spring and summer, this trail is mostly for hiking and biking, but during winter, it’s a skier’s paradise. Its total distance is 16 km, and you can easily access it from Mew Lake Campground.
  • Minnesing Wilderness Ski Trail. Located on the north side of Highway 60, this trail has four loops ranging from 6 to 32 km in distance. It’s not groomed regularly, so you can expect to find deep snow here.

Where to Stay

Arowhon Pines Resort

Address: Arowhon Road – Lease 1295, Algonquin Park, ON P1H 2G5, Canada

Operating Months: June to October

Contact Number: +17056335661

Pricing: $$$

Website

Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Arowhon Pines Resort! This rustic-themed resort offers three types of accommodation—a room inside a cabin, a two-bedroom cabin, and a luxury private cabin—so you’ll find one that best fits your needs. 

The interesting thing about this resort is that there are actually no televisions, telephones, and radios inside. Because of this, you’ll really be motivated to spend your time outdoors; you can explore the area or simply lounge by the lake. 

Arowhon Pines is open seasonally, usually from June to October. That said, it may open earlier if there’s an exclusive wedding or business group visiting.

Bartlett Lodge

Address: Highway 60, KM 23, 7, Algonquin Park, ON P0A 1H0, Canada

Operating Months: May to October

Contact Number: +17056335543

Pricing: $$

Website

Bartlett Lodge has been operating since 1917, which is why this place gives off such a friendly, warm atmosphere. It also helps that it’s located in a tranquil spot surrounded by trees, so staying here feels like an escape from the world. 

Despite its semi-remote location, Bartlett Lodge offers amazing amenities. For example, its rates are already inclusive of breakfast, a four-course dinner, and the lodge’s water taxi service; you can even use its facilities, like canoes and kayaks, free of charge!

There’s even Wi-Fi available here, so you can get your work done or scroll through social media in your spare time. Just take note that you’ll have to pay a fee to access the internet for 24 hours.

Killarney Lodge

Address: ON-60, Algonquin Park, ON P1H 2G9, Canada

Operating Months: May to October

Contact Number: +18664735551

Pricing: $$

Website

Killarney Lodge was first built in 1935, and it has been managed by the same family since then. Now, this lodge is the preferred accommodation for people looking for a cozy stay after embarking on an exciting adventure during the day. 

The cabins here come in a wide variety of sizes, so whether you’re vacationing solo or with a family, you’ll find a cabin for you. Plus, fine dining and delicious packed lunches are included in your stay. 

There are no televisions or radios here, so feel free to get adventurous. You can use the lodge’s canoes to explore the lake or go hiking to immerse yourself in nature—so many options on what to do!

Adventure Lodge

Address: #250 Nipissing River Road, Algonquin Park – Whitney, ON K0J 2M0, Canada

Operating Months: June to October

Contact Number: +18883273403

Pricing: $$

Website

Enjoy a peaceful retreat from the world at Adventure Lodge. This lodge features rustic cabins equipped with modern amenities, such as televisions and furnaces, for a comfortable stay; some cabins even have whirlpool bathtubs! 

While staying in this lodge, you can also enjoy a five-course gourmet dining experience and access to a heated swimming pool. If you’re the adventurous type, you might want to use the lodge’s canoe (for free!) and explore Poverty Creek and Rapid Lake. 

This lodge is pet-friendly as well, so feel free to bring your furry friends with you. Just make sure to bring a leash for them and properly dispose of their waste.

Couples Resort and Algonquin Spa

Address: 139 Galeairy Lake Rd, Whitney, ON K0J 2M0, Canada

Contact Number: +18662021179

Pricing: $$$

Website

Planning a romantic getaway with your partner? Then, you should book a room at Couples Resort and Algonquin Spa as soon as possible. 

This couples-only resort boasts a 5-star experience; all rooms are beautifully furnished with a theme that’s a blend of opulent old European and rustic countryside aesthetics. You can also enjoy fine dining and a relaxing spa day with your partner.

The best part is that this resort is actually open year-round, so you can go on a romantic excursion whenever you feel like it!

Where to Eat

Bartlett Lodge Restaurant

Address: Highway 60, KM 23, 7, Algonquin Park, ON P0A 1H0, Canada

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—6 pm and 8 pm seatings

Contact Number: +1(866)614-5355

Pricing: $$$

Website

Fine dining in a serene park—what else could sound better than that? That’s exactly what Barlett Lodge Restaurant offers, so be sure to book a reservation as soon as possible because walk-ins aren’t allowed. 

This restaurant offers a five-course meal, and you have a few options for each. Soup for the appetizer and beef tenderloin for the main course are the most popular options; as for the dessert, you can’t go wrong with a slice of cake. 

If you don’t eat meat or you have allergies, feel free to let the staff know. They will offer you a menu with vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian options.

Killarney Lodge Restaurant

Address: ON-60, Algonquin Park, ON P1H 2G9, Canada

Operating Hours:

  • Breakfast—8 to 9:30 am
  • Lunch—12 to 1:15 pm
  • Dinner—5:30 to 7:30 pm

Contact Number: +18664735551

Pricing: $$$

Website

At Killarney Lodge Restaurant, you’ll be able to treat yourself to fine country cuisine inside a rustic environment. The best part is the fact that this restaurant offers different menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

For breakfast, your main options are cereals, fruits, eggs, and apple-stuffed French toast; for lunch, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and simmering soups take centre stage. The dinner menu is the most extensive one, with a variety of quality meats available. 

The dress code for this restaurant is informal, but if you’re coming here during dinner, you might want to go with a smart casual outfit.

Arowhon Pines in Algonquin Park Restaurant

Address: Arowhon Road – Lease 1295, Algonquin Park, ON P1H 2G5, Canada

Operating Hours:

  • Breakfast—8 to 10 am
  • Lunch—12:30 pm
  • Dinner—6:30 pm

Contact Number: +17056335661

Pricing: $$

Website

Arowhon Pines is another accommodation in Algonquin Provincial Park that has a restaurant. The great thing about the restaurant here is that the menu changes daily and seasonally, so every visit is a surprise. 

Some of the dishes served here include a salad with house-smoked salmon, arugula, and avocado, char-grilled prime sirloin steak, and chocolate eclairs with English cream. For cheese lovers, an Ontario cheeseboard is sometimes available here as well.

A lot of the time, the restaurant in Arowhon Pines is fully booked, so reservations in advance can’t be made. That said, you can still call on the day to ask if there’s a table available for you.

Algonquin Pizza and Panini

Address: 4015 ON-60, Algonquin Highlands, ON P0A 1H0, Canada

Operating Hours

  • Monday and Tuesday—11 am to 8 pm
  • Thursday—11 am to 8:30 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday—11 am to 9 pm
  • Closed on Wednesday

Contact Number: +17056359999

Pricing: $

If you’re looking for an affordable dining spot in Algonquin Provincial Park, then you should head to Algonquin Pizza and Panini. As the name suggests, pizza and panini are the main offerings, and both of them come at a pretty cheap price. 

Aside from these two dishes, you can also order other sides, such as poutine, fries, and wings. As for dessert, a wide variety of ice cream flavours are available; salty caramel truffle is particularly great.

Lake of Two Rivers Cafe and Grill

Address: South Highway 60 at km 31.4 in Algonquin Provincial Park, Unorganized South Nipissing District, ON P0A 1H0, Canada

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8 am to 8 pm

Contact Number: +17056335373

Pricing: $

Website

Another affordable eatery in Algonquin Park is Lake of Two Rivers Cafe and Grill. This cafe is where you can find your comfort foods, such as hamburgers, French fries, poutine, pizza, and wraps; gluten-free snacks are available as well.

If the day is hot, then you might want to order a few scoops of ice cream or even a glass of decadent milkshake to cool down. On the flip side, if the day is cold, a cup of coffee sounds like the perfect treat.

Tips When Visiting Algonquin Provincial Park

In order to have the best experience in Algonquin Provincial Park, here are a few more tips you need to keep in mind during your visit.

  • Bring rain gear. A good rule of thumb when visiting the park is to prepare for the rain. Even when the day is sunny, rain can still happen; because of this, it’s best if you pack rain gear, such as a rain jacket and waterproof footwear, just in case.
  • Bring insect repellent. As you can expect from the wilderness, this park is filled with all sorts of insects, especially mosquitos. Because of this, you need to bring a repellent and apply it to your skin generously. 
  • Beware of ticks. The park isn’t known for having ticks with Lyme disease, but you shouldn’t be complacent either way. While you’re hiking around the park, be sure to check your body for little ticks; wearing long pants is another great preventative measure.
  • Keep a safe distance from wild animals. The park undoubtedly has a lot of wildlife, and you might encounter some of them. If you do, don’t approach them; keep a safe distance and continue with your business.