toronto, ontario
Weekend Warrior encourages hard-working people like you, to start taking steps to improve your work/life relationship by spending more time in the outdoors. Whether its camping, hiking or canoeing, any time spent in nature has tremendous benefits that will seamlessly translate into various areas of your life. This guidebook provides a broad range of helpful tips and suggestions to make getting out of the city and into the woods easy and painless. You will find tips to help in the acuiring of gear, travel and transportation options and trip suggestions complete with packing checklists and route maps and descriptions. You don’t have to become a granola and start wearing hemp clothing to use this book. Even if you tend to be more indoorsy, this guide is for anyone with an open-mind for adventure. It’s important to remember that adventure doesn’t necessarily mean hopping on a float plane to a remote place. It can simply be, doing something out of your personal norm. So this weekend, gather your friends/family, cook over a fire and spend a night under the stars. Come Monday, you will not regret it. We promise.
These symbols are used throughout the book to help make trip planning a breeze. They help classify trips so you can quickly choose which adventure is right for you.
trip duration
Day, 2-day + 3-day trips
day trip / Trips can be completed in a day
aournd other commitments and, are located within Toronto or, are no more than an 1.5 hour drive from downtown.
2-day trip / These overnight trips are designed for spending the night out under the stars. They may be up to 3 hrs. drive from Toronto and will vary in difficulty.
3-day trip / These are your long weekend trips to ensure ample time spend out there enjoying the backcountry. They may be up to 5 hrs from Toronto and can vary in difficulty.
difficulty
Trips for all levels of experience
easy / These are trips which are easy going; mellow terrain, low mileage and no previous experience needed. Feel free to bring children along as well as, heavy items due to one or, less portages.
moderate / These are trips which are require a little more energy; rolling terrain, increased mileage and some previous experience encouraged. Still child friendly and, be a bit more aware of the weight and bulk of items being packed.
hard / These are trips which are require the most energy; steeper terrain, increased mileage and some previous experience recommended. Be most aware of weight of packed items due to an increased number of portages or, mileage being covered by foot.
distance
Distance from downtown
zone one / 0–1.5 hour radius Locations may be accessible by public transit; TTC, GO + Parkbus. Most easily accessed by car.
zone two / 1.5–3
hour radius Locations may be accessed by public transit services such as Parkbus. Most easily accessed by car.
zone three / 3.5–5 radius Locations may be accessed by public transit services such as Parkbus. Most easily accessed by car.
activity
Pick your poison
canoe / Get out there and paddle some of the many well-known rivers and lakes Ontario has to offer. From short day-trips around the Toronto Harbour to long-weekends spent in Killarney wilderness.
hike / Explore the Canadian Shield by using the good ol’ heel toe express. Take it one step further by backpacking which is hiking and camping combined.
camp / There’s nothing like sleeping under the stars and waking up to hear the birds. We’ll show you some of our favourite places to camp in Ontario. Sites may be drive-in, hike-in or, canoe-in.
mount nemo travel time: 48 minutes address: Burlington, ON entrance fee: Yes; $6.75 activities: Hiking, Mount Biking, Rock Climbing accessed by: Car details: Hike away your stress, this serene spot
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leave no trace 01.
plan ahead + prepare
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travel + camp on durable surfaces
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dispose of waste properly
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minimize campfire impacts
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leave what you find
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respect wildlife
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be considerate of other vistors
**
For more information visit www.leavenotrace.org
planning
where to go, what to do + how to get there
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planning
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planning / the art of getting gear Investing in new outdoor gear is not for the faint of heart. Go to any outdoor retailer and you will get a glimpse of how easily you could spend your entire paycheck on gear for your next outing. If you’re fully committed to beginning a life filled with outdoor adventures, buying new outdoor gear is a worthy but, most times
costly investment. Depending on the frequency of use and level of care, most products can last several years or even, your lifetime. But, no matter where you are in your finances, the main goal is getting you outside so, here are a couple viable options moving forward to get you out there.
buying new Getting a new piece of outdoor makes any grown-up feel like a child at Christmas. Here’s some advice to ensure you keep loving your gear year after year.
Awesome, here’s a few tips.
outdoor retailer
mountain equipment co-op
We all want to look good on the trail, but believe me, being comfortable on the trail is HOT. There are hundreds of different jackets, backpacks, boots so, remember you don’t have to buy the first item you put on.
MEC is my go-to. There’s a ton of product variety and helpful, knowledgeable staff to help you make informed decisions. As well as, friendly customer service and their “Rocksolid Guarantee.” If it’s your first time shopping here, you’ll have to become a member which is a one-time $5 fee. They also have online shop which is great as well for those items you don’t need to try on.
be patient. do your research.
location:
Shop around, Read reviews and, ask store employees.
400 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 1K2 1–416–340–2667
be critical about fit then, colour and style
renting Want to take a trip, but don’t want to invest in all the gear you need? Renting a totally viable option due to the availability of rental programs at certain outdoor retailers around Toronto. Renting is awesome because you can try out different gear and even different activities entirely without having to buy all the gear. Some items are only available seasonally and reservations are strongly recommended during holidays and weekends.
bottom line The bottom line is this. Gear that fits properly and is functional is the most important when you’re in the outdoors. So, taking your time and acquiring
online gear swaps
mountain equipment co-op www.mec.ca
weekend warrior www.weekendwarrior.com
Great stuff without the commitment.
rental programs
mountain equipment co-op This is a great rental program and if you’re thinking about buying the product they will put your first days rental fee towards the purchase.
location: 400 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 1K2 1–416–340–2667 Pick up on Thursday afternoon and only pay for Sat + Sun. Just get outside.
the stuff that’s right for you is worth the wait. There’s no better feeling walking km after km blister-free and keeping the morale of the trip high!
planning
Gear swaps and buy/sells are a great place to get some gear for cheap but remember, buyer beware. If you’re not completely sure of a product’s history, and it greatly affects your own personal safety or, a partners—steer clear. Just to be safe. Much like buying new, do your research.
Be buyer aware.
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buying used
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planning / getting out of the city Living in the city, there’s a good chance that you don’t own a car or, you may not have your license. Here’s a few suggestions and resources that may help in your
attempt of visiting these wild spaces. Each take a little bit of planning but, come with their own varying amount of flexibility and cost. Find the right option for you.
trip partners + rideshares So, your friends aren’t super outdoorsy. That’s okay, you’re still in luck. Weekend Warrior and Mountain Equipment Coop have communities in place where people can find fellow adventurers looking to share their outdoor experiences and of course, gas money.
weekend warrior www.weekendwarrior.com
mountain equipment co-op: www.mec.ca
parkbus Parkbus was born in 2010 as a private initiative by a group of outdoor enthusiasts, who wanted to make outdoor destinations in Ontario accessible by public transportation. Pick locations located in various locations throughout Toronto.
park bus www.parkbus.ca 647–725–4180 Check schedules frequently and book early to ensure your spot on the bus! Fare: $46–$70 one way
rent a car If you have your license, renting a car is a super efficient and a more flexible way to get out of the city. Gather up some friends and split the expenses. For a small car, it could end up costing you less than $25/day.
enterprise 121 Laird Dr East York, ON M4G 3T7 1–416–425-3777 Weekend Rental: $9.99/ day
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planning
plan your weekend 01.
recruit a partner
02.
pick a destination
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how long? how far? how to get there?
04.
choose your gear and food
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be ready come friday afternoon
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get out there, relax + enjoy
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packing all the essentials for your next adventure.
packing
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packing / canoe trip essentials having the right gear can make or break a good adventure. here’s some essentials that every tripper should have. drybags A drybag is basically its namesake, it keeps your belongings dry. A wet, soggy camper is not a happy one so, these are an important item. Most large (50+ Litre) drybags come with straps for easy carrying over portages. Small ones are great for keeping some items separate and accessible. If you can’t afford one, a possible yet, temporary alternative is sticking items in garbage bags. But are not ideal when you have a few portages as they are difficult to manage and tear easily.
hiking shoes + sandals (warm weather) Proper footwear on a canoe trip is key. Have one pair of shoes strictly for when you’re on the water and one for when you’re at camp. Stick your running or, hiking shoes in your drybag while you’re canoeing to ensure you always have a warm, dry pair when you get to camp.
food barrel Again, pretty self-explantory here. The food barrel is a water tight, rigid container that floats in water and holds all your food for your trip. It helps food stay intact and organized as well as, help it stay safe from critters.
headlamp Hands-free lighting that you’ll never regret having. It can double as a lantern in your tent if you have side pockets and or, a loft.
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packing / canoe tripping 101 canoe basics to make anyone look like a pro. paddling
When you set out, the empty canoe should be put gently into the water beside the dock or shore, and steadied from the shore by hand while another person puts in the packs. Only one person at a time gets into a canoe, which is carefully steadied all the while from land until the entering paddler is on their seat.
The Bow and stern paddle on opposite sites, in unison, and with the sternman taking their cue from the bowman. Departing from this simple procedure will cause you to work harder than necessary. Maintaining a straight course is normally the responsibility of the sternman, and to do this by complete the essential “J� stroke. On large, open lakes paddle close to shore.
portaging Completing a portage in one trip should be a goal for every canoeist, and can be easily attained with a little planning. To begin with, all your equipment should be in a pack; carrying loose articles in your arms is both inefficient and tiring. Try each carry a pack and double the canoe, this will spread the weight even between the two paddlers. Padding can be created by wearing your lifejacket or draping a sweater over your shoulders. Make sure to double-check the area to make sure you have everything.
making camp It is a good practice to stop several hours before sunset so that you will have plenty of time to make camp. Choose a level area with both sufficient shelter and drainage to provide a dry and comfortable sleep.
campfire + safety Dry twigs and branches found on the ground provide the best firewood. Never leave a fire unattended. Before going to bed, or leaving the campsite, your fire must be dead out. There is only one safe way to put out a fire – drown it with water, stir thoroughly, and drown it again.
packing
getting in the canoe
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packing / what goes where Efficient packing is a learned skill. The more backcountry trips you go on the better you become at packing for them. Here are some tips on what to pack in each bag and where to place it within the canoe for safe travel.
20l drybag These smaller dry-bags are great for personal items and items you would like to keep accessible during the paddle or, at camp. Snacks Map + Compass Headlamp Rain Gear
Sunglasses Journal Water Purification First-Aid Kit
50l drybag These large drybags are generally used for personal sleeping gear and clothing to make sure everything stays dry. Sleeping Bag Sleeping Pad Tent
Clothing + Shoes Tarp Toiletries
food barrel The food barrel holds all the food and kitchen related items. When you can, pack the food barrel by meal and leave softer items on top. Food + Snacks Pots + Pans Camp Stove Fuel
Camp Soap + Scrubber Bowl + Plate Mug Lighter
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packing the canoe keeping your canoe balanced and fast bow / front Lighter personal items possibly needed while paddling;
middle Heavy + bulky items which are not needed while paddling; Food Barrel Large, 50L drybag Tent Bag + Sleeping bags Extra paddles + PFDs
tip: Keep items in center of canoe as much below the gunwhales (the edges of the canoe) as much as possible. This will help the canoe stay balanced and keep from tipping.
stern / back LIghter items which you may want handy during the time you’re paddling; Food/Snacks Water Bottle 20L Drybag Rain Jacket + Pants
packing
Small, 20L drybag Map + compass case Rain Jacket Water Bottle
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packing / hiking + backpacking essentials the most important backpacking + hiking tools. backpacks A good fitting backpack can making hiking long days a breeze or, a total nightmare. When buying a backpack, make sure to have your torso sized to know where to start. Most backpacks come in sizes xs-large. Look for features like a front zipper so you don’t have to rip everything out of your when you just need one thing in the bottom.
hiking boots When you’re backpacking, you’re constantly on your feet so, having boots that fit properly is imperative for blister-free days. At the end of the hiking days be sure to change out of yor boots and into lightweight camp shoes to ensure the drying of your boots for the following days hike.
synthetic clothing When you’re hiking, its inevitable that you will be sweating so having clothing that wicks the sweat from your skin’s surface is important for a number of reasons. It will help your body stay cool and also, dry faster keeping you from getting chilly.
rain gear Its nice being dry but, you dont have to get super expensive rain gear to achieve it. With cost becomes increased breathability. You could wear a garbage bag while hiking but, your partners may find you passed out on the trail due to the fact you’re wearing a big, shiny sweat suit that doesn’t breathe one bit. Find something in between.
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packing your pack keeping your bag balanced and feeling good
top / lid Light items you may want accessible while hiking.
exterior straps Rain Gear + Extra layers
middle / close to spine Heavy items; Tent + Poles Food Pots + Pans Heavier Clothing Layers
tip: By placing heavy items closest to your spine and in the middle of your backpack it will keep you most balance while you’re hiking. Especially when the terrain is varied and may have to climb over or under fallen trees.
bottom Items you will not need while hiking, and would like to keep most protected from weather. Sleeping Bag Sleeping Pad
packing
Snacks; Clif Bars, peanuts, etc. Pocket Knife Headlamp Map + Compass
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packing / meal planning food factors to consider. taste Eat what you like. Don’t try and convert your taste buds to new types of food deep in the backcountry.
calories Don’t inaugurate a diet program during a multi-night hike. You’ll need ample calories (and water!) to fight off fatigue and headaches.
nutrition It’s fine to tear into a candy bar during a trip, but for the long haul you want to rely on complex carbohydrates and proteins. Intelligent quick-eats such as nuts and dray fruits provide a stable flow of energy to your muscles.
weight and bulk Stick to lightweight and low-bulk foods as much as possible, especially on long journeys.
ease of preparation Unless you are an experienced gourmet, keep things simple. It’s smart to be well-supplied with no-cook food items in case your stove malfunctions.
cost Convenience has its price. Freeze-dried meals and energy foods can be expensive, but at the end of a long day when your weary body only has enough energy to boil water, such luxuries seem justifiable.
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packing / meal plan meal options breakfast ideas: Instant hot cereals, dehydrated eggs, pancake mix, breakfast bars, granola, dry cereal, instant tea, coffee, powdered milk, juice, fresh fruit, dried fruits.
lunch Rather than take a prolonged break for a midday meal (involving unpacking, preparation, cleanup and repacking), a smarter strategy is to eat a series of modest energy-boosting snacks throughout the day. Gradual calorie consumption is known as “grazing.”
ideas: Dried fruit, fig bars, bagels (which you can lug along on a shorter trip), energy bars, jerky and nuts.
dinner The evening meal is your reward for a full day of exhilarating exertion. If you possess elevated culinary skills that translate well into a backcountry setting, you’re set for a powerful sensory treat—great food amid great scenery. If you don’t mind the expense of packaged, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, the simplicity of a tasty, just-add-boiling-water meal is a relaxing treat.
ideas: Packaged meals, pasta, instant rice, ramen noodles, instant soups and sauces, instant stuffing, instant potatoes and tuna. Consider bringing along some favorite spices (onion and garlic powder + basil).
packing
Backpacking breakfasts can range from something fast and basic (an energy bar) to a lavish spread involving pancakes, eggs, meats and coffee. A hot meal can give you an extra boost, true, but a quick snack means no cleanup and a quicker start to the day.
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packing / checklists making sure you’ve got all you need.
packing
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canoe trip essentials group + personal gear checklist canoe paddles
1 per person + 1 extra
pfd’s
Personal Flotation Device
first-aid kit food barrel 50+ litre drybag 20+ litre drybag map + compass toilet paper tent sleeping bag sleeping pad
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packing
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canoe trip essentials personal clothing checklist synthetic t-shirts
quick-dry towel
synthetic long sleeve
tooth paste + brush
synthetic tank top
sunscreen
synthetic shorts
sunglasses toilet paper
sythetic pants rain jacket + pants bathing suits flip flops running shoes headlamp sunglasses hat/ballcap
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packing
Why synthetic clothing? Cotton works fine for dry, warmweather excursions, but it doesn’t do you any good if it gets wet from rain or your own sweat. It takes forever to dry and can drain away precious body warmth in the process. Synthetics dry quick and helps avoid dragging around wet, soggy clothes for a trips duration.
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canoe trip essentials personal clothing checklist stove
dish scrubber
fuel
ziplocs
bowl + plate cutlery pot + pan spatula mug / cup water purification lighter / matches camp soap tarp food
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packing
What food should I bring? When packing food for a canoe trip ask yourself a few questions. How many people? How many days? How many portages?...All of these questions will help you start planning your menu. Canoe trips are fun because you’re not so much worried about weight like when you’re backpacking. So bringing luxury items such as, a box of wine and, heavy canned items.
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backpacking essentials clothing + personal gear checklist fleece / down jacket
toilet paper
synthetic long sleeve
sleeping bag
synthetic t-shirts
sleeping pad
synthetic pants/shorts
sunglasses stuff sacks
rain jacket + pants quick-dry towel hiking boots headlamp sunglasses hat/ballcap tooth paste + brush sunscreen
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packing
Travelling Light. It’s a humbling experience carrying all you need on your back km after km. When backpacking, weight should always be in the forefront of your mind. So when choosing clothing, bring items that are multi-functional and have a high warmth to weight ratio. For example, for an insulating layer, bring down clothing when possible for its incredible warth but also, its ability to pack down to almost nothing. Also, use stuff sacks whenever possible to make packed items more packable.
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backpacking essentials group + kitchen gear checklist backpack tent stuff sacks lighter pots + pans fuel first-aid kit camp soap + scrubber map + compass food cutlery + bowl water purification
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packing
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adventures fun, quick trip suggestions for your time-off.
trips
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day trips On those weekends where you still have to juggle the commitments and constraints of your “real life”— here’s a few short adventures which can have you in the woods and home before dark. Not only that, it will even leave you time to clean up and take that layer of dirt off.
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mount nemo travel time: 48 minutes address: Burlington, ON entrance fee: Yes; $6.75 activities: Hiking, Mount Biking, Rock Climbing accessed by: Car details: Hike away your stress, this serene spot succeeds in being your sanctuary away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visit www.conservationhalton.ca for more info + maps.
travel time: 20-25 minutes address: Various Location entrance fee: No, but if taking ferry canoe rental fee: $30–$40/day details: Spend the day exploring the many waterways throughout Toronto as well as, the Islands. Be sure to pack a lunch, bring lots of water and have a picnic! More details on next page.
rattlesnake point travel time: 50 minute drive / 63 km address: 7200 Appleby Line Milton, ON L9T 2Y1 entrance fee: Yes; $6.75/adult camping: Yes, year-round, car camping hiking: Yes, 12.7 km of trails details: A lush tree canopy, bold-faced cliffs, hidden caves, 264 hectares of protected space, make Rattlesnake Point one of the most beautiful spots in all of Southern Ontario.
Visit www.conservationhalton.ca for more info + maps.
24 hours
toronto islands
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toronto islands Toronto, ON The islands are a destination for urban paddlers because it feels like you’ve left the city completely, but without having to drive for an hour or, two. Explore the many waterways and be sure to bring stuff to have a picnic while watching the hustle and bustle of the harbour.
rentals If you don’t own your own boat, here are a few places where you can get your hands on one. The hardest part is getting it from the shop to the water, ask for tips at the rental shop.
mec 400 King St W. Toronto, ON 416–340–2667 www.mec.ca RATE: $30/day
Canoe rentals can be very busy especially on long-weekends so, be sure to plan ahead of time!
the complete paddler 919 Oxford Street, Toronto, ON 416–255–6905 www.completepaddler.ca RATE: $40/day
start + finish kew beach The main beach in The Beaches with easy access to water.
ashbridges bay park A large park and great open spots to take canoes in and out.
toronto island park The island itself is a stuning place to push off. You have instant access to all the waterways that go between the islands. Keep your eyes open for nesting birds and other wildlife.
humber bay park Approaching the island from the west gives you an interesting perspective as you paddle past the often nude beach located on the island.
safety Like all activities on open water, canoeing can be dangerous if you’re inexperienced or caught off guard. Make sure you wear the appropriate safety gear, like lifejackets, PFDs, or
any other equipment recommended by the rental company you choose. Keep a safe distance from any water traffic. Make sure you’re not out on the water after the sun sets.
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24 hours
toronto
2-day trips These trips are perfect weekend adventures to get you out away from the city and back for Monday morning refreshed and ready to take on the week ahead.
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nunikani lake loop travel time: 3 hr 5 min drive start +finish: Big Hawk Lake Rd. Algonquin Highlands, ON entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Canoeing, Hiking, Backcountry Camping access: Car details: A classic ontario canoe route with stunning cliffs and only a few shorts portages. This makes for a fun, quick, overnight trip for people of all experience levels.
crab lake
established park with a variety of canoe and backcountry experiences.
highland hiking trail travel time: 3 hr 3 minute drive / 201 km start + finish: Km 29.7 of Highway 60 Algonquin Park, ON entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Hiking, Canoeing + backcountry camping access: Car + Parkbus details: Highland Backpacking Trail is an overnight backpacking trail with loops of 19 and 35 km in length. The challenging trail can be accessed from the Highland Backpacking Trailhead.
48 hours
travel time: 2 hr 34 minute drive / 201 km start + finish: 54 Fire Route 58A, Harcourt, ON K0L entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Canoeing + backcountry camping access: Car details: Enjoy solitude, tranquility and dark night skies in this newly
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nunikani lake loop Algonquin Highlands, ON
This is a Algonquin Highlands classic. Easy to navigate waterways and few portages make this a great trip for people of all experience levels.
quick facts
point of interest
portages : Four; 194m,440m,200m,225m distance: 19 km campsites available: 12 direction of travel: Clockwise reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
Along the northeast sides of Big Hawk lake are large, beautiful cliffs. You may see people jumping from them into the water below
getting there drive: Hwy 35 N near Dorset - just past Hall`s Lake turn onto Road 13, then onto Big Hawk Road
route description Paddle north then northwest through Big Hawk Lake, take 194m portage on the right around Nunikani Dam . Travel northest through Nunikani Lake and to the 440m portage into Red Pine Lake. There are a number of great campsites on Red Pine, if you chose to stay the
night. In the morning, head south towards clear through the 200m portage. Paddle quickly through clear lake to the final portage, 225 m back to Big Hawk Lake. Paddle southwest to finish at the marina.
canoe rentals big hawk lake marina Big Hawk Lake Rd, Algonquin Highlands,ON +1–705–489–2429 rate:$37/day
aprés drinks frost centre 20130 Hwy. 35 Algonquin Highlands, ON + 1–705–766–9033 rate: $40/day
Boshkung Brewing Co. Hwy 118 + 35 Haliburton, ON +1–705–745-0495
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48 hours
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crab lake loop Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
This is a quick and easy, overnight canoe route in the quiet, beautiful Kawartha Highlands. There is only one, short portage so bringing large items like coolers filled with delicious treats and beverages are highly recommended! Cheers!
quick facts
heads up
portages : One; 107m distance: 10 km campsites available: 19 reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
getting there drive: Get on Don Valley Pkwy N to the 401
Due to the easy access of Crab Lake, these sites book up fast during the summer months. So, be sure to make your reservations early or, try going early or later in the season.
Express, ON-401 E and ON-115 N to Television Rd in Peterborough. Finally, take ON-28 N to Fire Rte 58 in North Kawartha, access point will be on right.
route description After you put in, start your journey by canoeing down into Wolf Lake. This lake is perfect on it’s own with only a few cottages crowding the shore and it provides excellent campsite opportunities. Crab Lake is much more isolated and is easily reached by the
107m portage located at the end of Wolf Lake’s southeast bay. Crab lake has five main bays, each with one or two prime campsites complete with exposed chunks of granite to catch a breeze and a snug canopy of pine, maple and birch to pitch a tent under.
canoe rentals wild rock outfitters 169 Charlotte St, Peterborough, ON +1 –705-745-9133 rate:$30/day
aprés drinks long lake lodge 377 Long Lake Road Apsley, ON +1–705-656-4570 rate: $30/day
olde stone brewery 380 George Street N. Peterborough, ON +1–705–745-0495
best brew: Pickwicks Best Bitter
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48 hours
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highland hiking trail Algonquin Provincial Park
This is a beautiful, challenging, overnight backpacking loop with loops from 19km to 35km. If you travel the 19km trail, you’ll have nice, easy 8km days. Or, challenge yourself and do the 35km in two days with days a bit longer at 12.5km.
quick facts distance: 19km, 35km campsites available: 13 reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
Pick up permits from the Mew Lake where you can pay for a parking permit as well.
getting there drive: Get on Don Valley Pkwy N to the 401 Express, ON-401 W and then 400 N towards Barrie. Just past Barrie, stay straight onto Hwy 11 towards Orillia. Take exit
for Huntsville, Hwy 60. Trailhead is located at km 29.7 of Hwy 60 in Algonquin Park which is the Mew Lake Campground. If you’re taking Parkbus, get off at this stop.
trail description Start out from the Mew Lake Campground, you will weave through lush forest and up and down gentle rolling hills. When you get to a fork 5km), head left around provoking lake. Continue for another 3km and hit another fork. If you are doing the longer loop, head left and head
towards Harness + Head lake. Make camp at either of these lakes and proceed back to Mew Lake the following day. If you’re doing the shorter loop, continue right for another 2km and make camp on the west side of provoking lake.
equipment rentals
aprés drinks
algonquin outfitters 231 Main St. N. Huntsville, ON +1–705–745-0495
pub at the docks 230 Main St. N. Huntsville, ON +1–705–745-0495
mew lake campground 29.7 km Hwy 60 Algonquin, ON +1–705–745-0495
best brew: Lake of Bays IPA
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48 hours
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3-day trips These trips are perfect long weekend adventures to help you maximize your time off. These are the perfect trips to challenge yourself a bit more, maybe by more mileage or, just further from the city. Be sure to book early on holiday weekends as rental and campsite selection can become slim.
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serpentine lake loop travel time: 2 hr 34 minute drive / 201 km start + finish: Anstruther Lake Rd, Harcourt, ON K0L entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Canoeing + backcountry camping access: Car details: Enjoy solitude, tranquility and dark night skies in this newly established park with a variety of canoe and backcountry experiences.
poker lake loop travel time: 2 hr 34 minute drive / 201 km start + finish: Algonquin Highlands, ON entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Canoeing + backcountry camping access: Car details: Nice, easy portages although there are a few and a number of beautiful campsites with breezy granite outcroppings for nice, bug-free night-time hangouts.
norway lake loop
Ontario. The impressive granite and quartz rock formations make this spot stunning and like no other. The hiking is here is phenomal as well but, most trails will take 4+ days.
72 hours
travel time: 5hr drive / 396 km start + finish: Hwy 637 Killarney Provincial Park, ON entrance fee: Yes; $11.87/adult/night activities: Hiking, Canoeing + backcountry camping access: Car + Parkbus details: Killarney Provincial Park is one of the most beautiful parks in
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serpentine lake loop Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
This is a nice and moderate 3-day loop located in Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. Fun features includes going through Anstruther creek and seeing turtles and
quick facts
heads up This is a self-check in site. Be sure to have your reservation number handy and your groups license plate numbers for parking permits.
portages : Seven; 2,611m distance: 21 km campsites available: 13 reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
getting there
drive: From Peterborough take ON-28 N through Apsley to Ansruther Lake Rd in North Kawartha.Travel 10km to government launch on right.
route description After you put in, start your journey by canoeing north then northeast through Anstruther Lake. Portage (P) 162 m around Rathbun Dam. Paddle northwest through Rathbun Lake and P135 m into Rathbun Creek. P1584m into Serpentine Lake. Camp here, beautiful sites with lush canopies and great water acces. The following day,
paddle South through Serpentine Lake P160m into creek. P30 m on creek and go east then south through Copper Lake . P837 m to Anstruther Creek and paddle west on Anstruther Creek. P180 m to Rathbun Lake head south on Rathbun Lake. Again, P162m around Rathbun Dam and paddle south on Anstruther Lake to finish.
canoe rentals wild rock outfitters 169 Charlotte St, Peterborough, ON +1 –705-745-9133 rate:$30/day
aprés drinks long lake lodge 377 Long Lake Road Apsley, ON +1–705-656-4570 rate: $30/day
olde stone brewery 380 George Street N. Peterborough, ON +1–705–745-0495
best brew: Pickwicks Best Bitter
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72 hours
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poker lake loop Algonquin Highlands, ON
This is a quick and easy, overnight canoe route in the quiet, beautiful Kawartha Highlands. There is only one, short portage so bringing large items like coolers filled with delicious treats and beverages are highly recommended! Cheers!
quick facts
heads up
portages : Nine, 1,550m distance: 21 km campsites available: 11 reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
If camping on Cinder Lake, head to the northern most bay to see a boat wreckage from Haliburtons’ logging days.
getting there
drive: From Peterborough take ON-28 N through Apsley to Ansruther Lake Rd in North Kawartha.Travel 10km to government launch on right.
route description After you put in, start your journey by canoeing north then northeast through Anstruther Lake. Portage (P) 162 m around Rathbun Dam. Paddle northwest through Rathbun Lake and P135 m into Rathbun Creek. P1584m into Serpentine Lake. Camp here, beautiful sites with lush canopies and great water acces. The following day,
paddle South through Serpentine Lake P160m into creek. P30 m on creek and go east then south through Copper Lake . P837 m to Anstruther Creek and paddle west on Anstruther Creek. P180 m to Rathbun Lake head south on Rathbun Lake. Again, P162m around Rathbun Dam and paddle south on Anstruther Lake to finish.
canoe rentals big hawk lake marina Big Hawk Lake Rd, Algonquin Highlands,ON +1–705–489–2429 rate:$37/day
aprés drinks frost centre 20130 Hwy. 35 Algonquin Highlands, ON + 1–705–766–9033 rate: $40/day
Boshkung Brewing Co. Hwy 118 + 35 Haliburton, ON +1–705–745-0495
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72 hours
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norway lake loop Killarney Provincial Park
Killarney is stunning! This loop through Norway lake is no exception. Experience the Quartz bluffs when you pass through George Lake and onto Freeland Lake, they’re absolutely beautiful! Lakes are clean, clear and not as busy a other ones in the area.
quick facts
heads up
portages : Nine, 1,550m distance: 21 km campsites available: 11 reservations: www.ontarioparks.ca
If camping on Cinder Lake, head to the northern most bay to see a boat wreckage from Haliburtons’ logging days.
getting there drive: From Peterborough take ON-28 N through Apsley to Ansruther Lake Rd in North Kawartha.Travel 10km to government launch on right.
route description Start at access point on George Lake. Portage (P) 80m around dam. Head East through Freeland Lake P455m to Killarney Lake. Paddle north then east through Killarney Lake P1390 m to Norway Lake, camp night one on Norway Lake. In the morning, P1470m to Kakakise Lake and camp night two on Kakakise Lake. The final morning
head southwest on Kakakise Lake. P1975m beside Kakakise Creek and continue west through Freeland Lake. P80m right around dam . Paddle west then south through George Lake to finish. Load up your cars and have a swim at the George Lake beach.
canoe rentals big hawk lake marina Big Hawk Lake Rd, Algonquin Highlands,ON +1–705–489–2429 rate:$37/day
aprés drinks frost centre 20130 Hwy. 35 Algonquin Highlands, ON + 1–705–766–9033 rate: $40/day
Boshkung Brewing Co. Hwy 118 + 35 Haliburton, ON +1–705–745-0495
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72 hours
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