Algonquin Provincial Park

A Canoe Tripper’s Paradise

A canoe tripper could spend a lifetime exploring Algonquin Park. Covering 7,653 square kilometers (2,955 square miles) of rugged Canadian Shield country, the park boasts over 2,000 km (1,242 miles) of canoe routes. Paddlers can follow lakes, streams and portage trails through the vast forested interior. Most of Algonquin Park is only accessible by canoe, so solitude is not far away from the put-in. Motor boats are restricted to a few lakes, fly-in access is prohibited and road access to the park is limited to the Highway #60 “corridor” and peripheral access points. Campsites and portages are marked and well maintained, and good maps are readily available, so navigation is relatively easy.

The park is home to an abundant wildlife population. Many Algonquin visitors see moose and, perhaps, catch a fleeting glimpse of a wolf or black bear. During late August and early fall, people who try howling for wolves are often rewarded with a mournful response from a nearby pack. Smaller mammals like otters, fox, chipmunks, squirrels and raccoons are often seen. Over 250 bird species have been recorded in Algonquin Park and the perennially popular wilderness bird, the common loon, can be found nesting on most lakes.

If you don’t feel quite ready for venturing into the interior, Algonquin Park’s 12 drive-in campgrounds offer visitors a slightly different camping experience. Most of the campgrounds are along the Highway #60 corridor, with easy access to park facilities, day canoe trips, hiking trails and other activities.

You don’t have to be a canoeist or even a camper to enjoy Algonquin Park. Many visitors stay at lodges and resorts, both in and outside the park, and enjoy day excursions. Canoe and kayak day rentals are available at four Algonquin Outfitters bases in or near the park and bike rentals are available at our Lake of Two Rivers Store. The Minnesing Mountain Bike Trail is a great ride for fat-tire fans and the Old Railway Bike Trail offers a more sedate riding experience. For those who prefer to hike, three backpacking trail systems and numerous day hiking trails allow travel on foot. In the winter, lakes and streams will be frozen but the park is open to explore by ski and snowshoe.

Ontario’s oldest provincial park is easily accessible from major centres in eastern Canada and the U.S. There are picnic areas, beautiful sand beaches, day-hiking trails and some amazing scenery, right along Highway #60. With our wide range of locations, products and services, Algonquin Outfitters can help your visit be memorable, no matter how you choose to experience Algonquin Park!

Why do we love Algonquin Provincial Park?

There are many reasons why people visit Algonquin Park, as well as many reasons to return over and over again!.  Here are just a few of those reasons, from people who live and work in Algonquin Park. Want to share why you love Algonquin Park? Visit our Submit a Photo or Client Testimonial page.

Algonquin Park Access Points