Discover the Best Hikes in Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park, a few hours north of Toronto, is Ontario's most popular park. It boasts stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, making it a hiker's paradise. You can rent a car in Toronto to enjoy the scenic drive to the park.

Trails vary from easy boardwalk strolls to challenging multi-day treks, offering something for everyone. The park is especially beautiful in the fall when the foliage transforms into a vibrant palette of colors.

Most trails are along the Highway 60 corridor, but some gems like Achray are on the east side. If you're camping, you'll find trails right from your site. Choose your adventure with our guide to Algonquin's best hikes.

1. Centennial Ridges

Centennial Ridges is a 10.4-kilometer hike known for its breathtaking fall views. It's a challenging but rewarding trek with numerous ups and downs. Plan for 4.5 to 6 hours to complete this hike, located at kilometer 37.6 on Highway 60.

2. Track and Tower

The 7.5-kilometer Track and Tower Trail offers diverse scenery and a stunning view from Cache Lake. It's a difficult hike due to elevation changes but not technically challenging. The trailhead is at kilometer 25 on Highway 60, and the hike takes 3 to 4 hours. A hiking and biking option is available, combining the Old Railway Bike Trail with a short hike to the lookout.

3. Beaver Pond Trail

Beaver Pond Trail is a two-kilometer loop known for wildlife spotting, especially beavers. The trail features typical Algonquin landscapes and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.

4. The Lookout

The Lookout Trail is a steep two-kilometer hike leading to a stunning viewpoint. It's a difficult hike due to the incline but not technically challenging. The hike takes about an hour and starts at kilometer 39.7 on Highway 60.

5. Mizzy Lake Trail

Mizzy Lake Trail is a 10.8-kilometer full-day hike through classic Canadian Shield landscapes. Start early for wildlife sightings and prepare for a longer-than-expected journey.

6. Barron Canyon, Achray

Barron Canyon features a 1.5-kilometer loop trail with stunning views of the canyon and river. It's located near Achray, on the east side of the park.

7. Big Pines

Big Pines Trail is a 2.9-kilometer hike showcasing large white pines and the history of logging. It's an easy trail with some uneven terrain, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.

8. Spruce Bog Boardwalk

The Spruce Bog Boardwalk is a 1.5-kilometer easy trail suitable for families. It offers a glimpse into bog ecosystems and takes about 30 minutes to an hour to walk.

9. Hardwood Lookout

Hardwood Lookout is a short but steep hike under one kilometer with a scenic view over Smoke Lake. It takes 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

10. Jack Pine Trail, Achray

The Jack Pine Trail is a 1.6-kilometer hike leading to a lookout over Grand Lake, inspired by artist Tom Thomson. It starts from the Achray Campground.

11. Logging Museum Outdoor Exhibit Trail

This 1.3-kilometer trail behind the Algonquin Logging Museum offers insights into the park's logging history. It's an easy walk taking about an hour.

12. Whiskey Rapids

Whiskey Rapids is a 2.1-kilometer loop trail along the Oxtongue River, leading to the rapids. It's a relatively easy hike with a few steep sections, taking 1 to 1.5 hours.

When to Hike in Algonquin Park

Weather in Algonquin Park can be unpredictable due to its elevation. Insects can also impact your experience, with black fly season in late May and June. July and August are peak months, while September offers solitude. October brings leaf peepers, making trails busy.

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Ontario Outdoors: Explore more hiking in Ontario with guides to the Best Hikes in Killarney Provincial Park, the Best Campgrounds in Algonquin, and the Best Camping Areas in Killarney Provincial Park. Plan further adventures with the Top Ontario Parks.