Nothing beats a summer hike within Ontario’s wilderness! And this next park is not one to miss. Algonquin Park is one of Ontario’s most popular, with over a hundred kilometres of hiking trails that guide you past stunning sights and even an abandoned railway. Here’s why it’s a must-visit this summer.
Algonquin Park
Located about three and a half hours northeast of Toronto is Algonquin Provincial Park.
It’s one of the most notable parks in the province. Known for its camping, fishing, boating, canoeing and wildlife spotting opportunities, Algonquin is a must-visit if you have not yet explored it.
Not only is it the first provincial park in Ontario, but it is also one of the largest. Though it’s an all-season park with a ton of activities to enjoy, we’re here to talk about one of its unique trails.
Trails
It has several paths that connect, leading to the park having 14 interpretive trails, but over 20 individually named trails.
They range from easy, short walks to hours-long, strenuous commutes.
Peck Lake Trail, for example, circumnavigates the shoreline of Peck Lake; Big Pines Trail guides past the remains of an 1880s logging camp; Scorch Lake Lookout Trail is a 20-minute climb that takes you to a beautiful view of Scorch Lake and Booth’s Rock Trail visits two lakes and a lookout.
On its return, this trail takes you via an abandoned railway. Now that’s spooky.
On the topic of railways, if you bring your bike, you can also venture along the self-described Old Railway Bike Trail.
According to the official website of the Friends of Algonquin Park, it is a leisurely family bicycle trail during spring, summer and fall, and a multi-purpose recreation trail during the winter.
“For most of its 16-kilometre distance the trail follows the abandoned bed of the historic Ottawa, Arnprior, and Parry Sound Railway, opened in 1896 and decommissioned in 1959,” states the site.
One thing is for certain: you’re in for some nature fun at Algonquin.
So plan your next weekend trip to Algonquin — you won’t regret it.
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