Getting To Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
The most popular way to get to Algonquin Park is by self-driving. Algonquin Park is 2 hours and 42 minutes west of Ottawa (243.2 kilometres) and 2 hours and 50 minutes north of Toronto (276 kilometres).
Those without a car can catch the Park Bus from downtown Toronto. Within Algonquin Provincial Park, the Park Bus stops at Lake Opeongo, Pog Lake Campground, Lake of Two Rivers, The Portage Store, West Gate access point, and Wolf Den Hostel & Nature Retreat. Unfortunately, it does not run a service to or from Ottawa at this time.
Besides the Park Bus, there is no public transportation within Algonquin Provincial Park. So we would recommend driving yourself if you can. We explored the park with our campervan,
Algonquin Park Hours & Entry Fees
There are two ways to visit the park. The first is on a day-use/ daily vehicle pass and the second is with a camping permit. Anyone with an Algonquin Park camping permit has 24-hour access and does not need to pay an additional fee.
Those on a day-use or daily vehicle pass are permitted within Algonquin park from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm each day. Day use permits can be purchased at most park facilities.
A daily vehicle permit is $18.00 per vehicle. However, they increase to $21.00 per vehicle for those exploring Highway 60 on weekends in the fall when people flock to see the changing foliage.
Don’t be caught without a ticket or you will be given a hefty fine. Ontario Parks seasonal passes also work as a day pass for park Algonquin and can be purchased in advance at most Ontario Parks offices or online.
Seasonal passes range from $85.00 for a winter pass, $125.00 for a summer pass, and $185.00 for an annual Ontario Parks pass.
Things To Do In Algonquin Park, Ontario
No matter what time of year you plan to visit Algonquin Provincial Park, there is plenty to do once you arrive. Most visitors come to Algonquin to enjoy the beautiful scenery and to escape city life, but those that are lucky might even catch a glimpse of some of Algonquoin’s animals like the Canada loon, beaver, moose, and deer.
Hiking
Hiking is by far one of the best things to do in Algonquin Park, Canada. There are over 20 well-marked Algonquin Park trails ranging from 30mins to a few hours. Most trails are about 1-2 hours. They are perfect for day-trippers and those staying at front-country campsites within the park.
Backcountry hikers will enjoy over 140 kilometres of interior park trails but they aren’t for the faint of heart. To camp and hike in the backcountry requires previous experience and lots of preparation.
Recommended Day Trails
Some of the best day hikes, at Algonquin Park, Ontario, include the following:
Lookout Trail (1.9km)
This scenic trail may only cover 1.9 kilometres but it takes approximately 1 hour to complete. You’ll climb to the top of a cliff which rewards you with panoramic views of the park. The Lookout Trail is the most popular and hence the busiest trail in Algonquin park so be prepared to share it with the crowds or plan to visit on a weekday. Bonus points if you can do it in the fall when the foliage is at its best and brightest.
Beaver Pond Trail (2kms)
This easy trail wraps around 2 beaver ponds offering an opportunity to spot these elusive animals in their natural habitat. The trail takes about 1-2 hours to complete and is an easy hike with lovely scenery.
Algonquin Logging Museum Trail (1.3km)
This fascinating trail offers a glimpse into Ontario’s logging industry. It begins and ends at the Algonquin Logging Museum and along the well-trodden track you’ll pass by interpretive signage, old steam-powered train and a restructured wooden logging camp.
Stop at the museum to watch the documentary for even more information on logging in the area. The museum is managed in part by the Friends of Algonquin park program which is an NGO dedicated to furthering the educational and interpretive programs of the park.
Track & Tower Trail (7.5 km)
This rather difficult trail takes about 4 hours to complete but offers a scenic lookout and a view of an abandoned railway.
Mizzy Lake Trail (11 km)
Mizzy Lake Trail is one of the longest day trails in the park but with that comes a full immersion into nature. The trail takes about 4-5 hours to complete and takes visitors past hardwood forests, ponds, bogs, and lakes. Since the trail takes you away from busy areas, it is more common to see wildlife, like moose, turtles, and beaver along the way. The trail is fairly flat but can get muddy so we would only suggest you attempt it in the dry, summer months.
Biking
Whether you are up for a leisurely pedal or a more intense downhill mountain biking experience, there is a trail for you to discover at Algonquin Park. However, only attempt the trails when they are snow-free. If you didn’t bring your own bike you can check in with Two Rivers Store to rent.
Old Railway Bike Trail (16 kilometres)
This interesting trail is of a fairly flat grade and offers interpretive signage along the way. It is suitable for all levels and follows the path of an abandoned railway bed. It passes a series of lakes including an access point at Mew Lake, Lake of Two Rivers, Kearney Lake, Coon Lake, Pog Lake, Rock Lake.
Minnesing Mountain Bike Trail (4.7 – 23.4 kilometres)
This moderately difficult mountain bike trail passes by lakes, through hardwood forest and includes boardwalk sections. Bikers can choose their desired length based on their preference.
Byer Lake Mountain Bike Trail (13 kilometres)
The Byer Lake Trail is another moderately difficult trail. It is a convenient loop that has views of York River, Gut Rapids, and Byers Lake. There are a series of steep ascents and descents and keep in mind that the trail can get muddy at times.
