When it comes to outdoor recreation, Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada is known mostly for its interconnecting canoe routes and park maintained portages. While not its most popular pastime, those on foot will find a hidden gem of a trail system and a true Canadian wilderness experience. Over 2000 lakes dot the landscape, many offering good fishing opportunities, and with almost 2 million acres of this lake-filled forest, one could spend a lifetime exploring the various nuances of the park.

The Backpacking Trails of Algonquin

For the backpacker seeking a maintained trail system, there are a few areas that we can focus on. The two most convenient trail systems are on the western side of the park off Highway 60 which intersects the Park west to east. The Western Uplands Trail will be your most remote option and provides 3 separate loops totaling nearly 70 miles of marked trail. Access the trail either from Highway 60, or from the Rain Lake access point on the northern end of the park which will require driving on a sometimes snowy and rough dirt road. This trail system will explore the terrain to the north of Highway 60.

The Highland Trail access can be found by driving east on 60 just a few miles from the Western Uplands Trailhead. Here you’ll find a 21 mile trail system exploring the southern side of the Park. Quite some distance across the Park farther to the east you’ll find the Eastern Pines Trail, an 11 mile trail system. Whatever option you choose, register with the park at headquarters or at the Kearney permit office (if using the Rain Lake access point) prior to departing, as permits are required – about $12 per person per night. Before your trip obtain the backpacking trails map supplied by the Park, as the staff will need to know your planned itinerary and campsite selections.

Most literature that's out there is focused on canoeing the park, such as a Paddler's Guide to Algonquin Park. Another title worth looking at is The Explorer's Guide to Algonquin Park. Find a map of the park here.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in Issue 2 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here for additional photos and content.