Looking for an unforgettable Canadian outdoor adventure? Whether you're planning a road trip through Ontario or a nature getaway from Toronto or Ottawa, Algonquin Provincial Park is a must-visit destination that captures the true essence of the Canadian wilderness.
My daughter just returned from a 3-night camping trip in Algonquin Park at the Lake of Two Rivers Campground. She had a great time and some of her thoughts and pictures are attached to this blog.
Why Visit Algonquin Park?
Located just three hours from Toronto, Algonquin Park is Ontario’s oldest and most famous provincial park, offering over 7,600 square kilometers of breathtaking views, lakes, forests, and trails. It's one of Canada’s top spots for hiking, canoeing, camping, and wildlife watching.
Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a weekend traveler, Algonquin has something for everyone—from backcountry solitude to accessible family-friendly experiences.
Canoeing in Algonquin: Paddle Through Serenity
One of the best ways to explore Algonquin is by canoe. Start your adventure on Canoe Lake, a peaceful stretch of water famously painted by Tom Thomson and celebrated by the Group of Seven.
Canoeing in Algonquin gives you front-row access to its natural beauty: calm waters, towering pines, rocky outcrops, and curious wildlife like beavers and loons. But beware of the Canadian Geese!! There are hundreds of canoe routes, ranging from half-day paddles to multi-day portage trips through the heart of the park.
Travel tip: Rent your canoe from one of the outfitters at Canoe Lake or Opeongo Lake and book your permits in advance through Ontario Parks.
My Daughter’s Thoughts and Shots: I canoed around the lake at my campsite, Lake of Two Rivers. The waters were cool and clear as they splashed into the canoe. The service (Algonquin Outfitters) where we rented the canoe was SO easy to use - booked right on my phone - and they delivered the canoe right to the campsite beach. Having the freedom to get out on the water to watch the sunrise & sunset in the canoe was such an unforgettable memory and the pictures came out amazing!
Best Hiking Trails in Algonquin Park
For hikers, Algonquin Park trails offer something for every level. Whether you are looking for a short 45-minute hike like Hardwood Lookout or a longer hike which offers more chances to see hidden wildlife like Centennial Ridge, Algonquin hiking trails has something for you!
Other top hiking trails in Algonquin include:
- Mizzy Lake Trail (11 km - 6 hours): Great for spotting moose, otters, and birdlife. Dog free hiking trail.
- Track and Tower (7.5 km - 4 hours): Challenging hike with astonishing views over a large lake at the top.
- Whiskey Rapids Trail (2.1 km - 1 hour): A scenic loop along the Oxtongue River.
My Daughter’s Thoughts and Shots: I had the chance to complete three hikes during my time at Algonquin; Lookout, Track and Tower and Hardwood Lookout. The ratings of the hikes given in the tour guidebook were very accurate regarding the levels of the hikes and how accessible they are to different hikers. My favourite by far was Track and Tower because the view was not to be missed, but I will not lie, the hike was NOT an easy task, but worth every minute. Just ensure you are keeping yourself safe when choosing which hikes your physical ability allows. One good thing I noticed about the trails are that many of them offer ‘shortcuts’ where you can skip certain challenging parts or shorten the hike length.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing your time to travel is weather conditions. Going in June, one of the trails I wanted to do, ‘Whiskey Rapids’ was closed due to flooding.
Camping and Accommodations in Algonquin
My daughter camped at Lake of Two Rivers Campground, which is ideal for families and first-time visitors. Sites are nestled among the trees, with easy access to the beach and a comfort station. If camping isn’t on your list of must-have experiences, there are other accommodation options available for those who still want to experience what Algonquin Park has to offer.
Other options include:
- Backcountry camping for those looking to truly unplug.
- Rustic lodges and cabins like Arowhon Pines or Killarney Lodge for more comfort.
- Nearby towns like Huntsville or Whitney offer cozy inns and motels.
My Daughter’s Thoughts and Shots: The campsite I stayed at was so nice, the beach and bathrooms were really close to my site and looked to be near all the sites around. Each campground has their own designated store which is close by and carries necessary camping supplies (food, drinks, blankets, etc.) in case you forgot something, as well as cute souvenirs (magnets, key chains, hoodies, mugs). I won’t lie I was nervous about what the bathroom situation was going to look like, but the facilities on my campground were always kept clean, have flushing toilets and running water sinks.
If you are looking to stay at Lake of Two Rivers Campground, site 78 has an AMAZING view over a watery marsh with the campfire set up looking right over it in between its private set of trees.
Best Time to Visit Algonquin Park:
- Fall (late September–early October) for stunning autumn colours.
- Spring (May–June) for wildlife viewing, especially moose.
- Summer (July–August) for canoe trips and family camping.
Wildlife in Algonquin Park: A Photographer's Dream
Algonquin Park is one of the best places in Canada to see wildlife. There are always sightings of moose and their calves, deer and though it may be rarer, bears. The wildlife in Algonquin is acclimatized to people which makes viewing easy, even from your car, but be aware that though the animals may seem friendly, it is always best to remain a safe distance away when capturing photos and memories.
Keep your eyes peeled for:
- Moose & Calves in wetland areas during early morning or dusk
- Beavers and otters near rivers and ponds
- Black bears (from a safe distance)
- Over 270 species of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls
My Daughter’s Thoughts and Shots: While I was camping, I had a very friendly set of chipmunks come and visit my site each day. They were persistent little guys, and I aptly named them Alvin and Theodore. At one point Alvin even ended up in my CAR! It didn’t take long to realize they were after my food so ensure when you are camping you keep a close eye on your smellies and pack them away back into your car when not in use. Sometimes failing to do so can result in a ticket from the Park Rangers.
For a deeper dive, the Algonquin Visitor Centre and Logging Museum offer exhibits on the park’s natural history, Indigenous heritage, and conservation efforts.
🔍 FAQs About Visiting Algonquin Provincial Park
Q: How do I get to Algonquin Park?
A: The most popular entrance is via Highway 60, about 3 hours from Toronto and 4 hours from Ottawa. There are two entrances: an East Gate and a West Gate, with your campsites located in between as you drive the highway.
Q: Do I need a permit for Algonquin?
A: Yes, both day-use permits and camping permits can be booked online through Ontario Parks.
Q: What should I pack for Algonquin?
A: Camping essentials. Make sure to include lots of layers (especially if you are visiting during the cooler months), bug spray & sunscreen, hiking shoes or runners you aren’t afraid of getting dirty, a reusable water bottle, a flashlight and a camera!
Plan Your Customized Trip to Algonquin Park
As a travel advisor who specializes in Canadian getaways, multi-generational adventures and personalized vacation planning, I’d love to help you plan a trip to Algonquin—whether it’s your first time or your fifth.
Need help choosing the right trails, accommodations, or timing your trip for peak fall colours? Let’s tailor your perfect wilderness escape.
