A First Timer’s Guide to Exploring Algonquin Park

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

Algonquin Park is the perfect place to go hiking, kayaking, swimming and more. This is your first timer’s guide to exploring Algonquin Provincial Park.

For many of us Canadians, spending time outdoors is an important staple of summer. And the wonderful thing is that it’s possible to take day and weekend trips out of most of Canada’s cities. For example, one of my favorite day trips out of Toronto was to visit an alpaca farm!

Algonquin Provincial Park is a favorite amongst Canadians and visitors from abroad for enjoying nature. The park is over 7000 kilometers squared of wilderness, and has over 1500 inland lakes.

There are 14 designated hiking trails within the park, and over 2000 canoe routes (including portaging). 

Having grown up in Ottawa, Ontario, I visited Algonquin Park many times growing up. This summer, my partner and I decided it would be fun return to the park to do some hiking. Normally we are campers, but for this particular Algonquin trip, we decide to go glamping!

In this Algonquin Park guide I’m covering all the basics: How to get there, where to stay, what to see, what to do, and more. I’ll also share tips for visiting the Park (even if you don’t have a car or camping equipment!). 

The spruce bog in Algonquin Park, covered in my guide to exploring Algonquin Provincial Park.
Spruce Bog Trail, Algonquin Park

Brief History of Algonquin Provincial Park

Canada’s First Nations have lived throughout the province of Ontario as far back as 9000 years ago. In 1893, the park was established as a Provincial park, and it was named after the Indigenous people who inhabited the region, the Algonquin. 

It’s important to understand the darker parts of Canada’s history, especially when it comes to provincial parks. When Europeans began coming to what is now called Canada, around the 1600s, systematic colonization started to displace First Nations. 

The legacy of that colonization persists today. Indigenous populations of Canada continue to experience systematic marginalization, prejudice, and racism. To understand Canada’s colonial legacy and the impact it’s having on First Nations today, you can read my blog about the lack of Indigenous representation in Canadian tourism.

A woman standing and looking out over Algonquin Park, on the Lookout Trail
The Lookout Trail, Algonquin Park

Today, over 220,000 people in Ontario identify themselves as Ontario First Nations. There are 133 First Nation communities across Ontario and each of them has unique beliefs, language, and histories.

Algonquin Park is unceded Algonquin and Anishinaabe territory. Unceded means that the First Nations who lived in the region never relinquished ownership of the land. It was forcibly taken from them and given to settlers.

The Anishinaabe nation includes all the Algonkian/Ojibwa Nations: Ojibway, Odawa, Algonquin, Potawatomi, Nipissing, Mississaugas, Saulteau.

Best Time to Visit Algonquin Park

This depends on what you’d like to do and see in Algonquin Park. The summer months (June-August) are the warmest.

During these months, you can enjoy warm, sometimes hot temperatures that are perfect if you’re tent camping and wanting to go swimming in Algonquin’s lakes. This is the busiest time in Algonquin Park.

If you’d like to see Algonquin Park’s beautiful fall colours, head to the park between mid-September and mid-October. Fall is also a great time for hiking and portaging because the weather has cooled, and there are less bugs out.

Fall, which stretches into November, is a little less busy than summer, which means you’ll have more moments of solace while exploring the park.

Winter (December-March) is the quietest time in the park because not as many people are up to braving the cold temperatures! But if you are, winter is a magical time in Algonquin. The park becomes a winter wonderland, perfect for exploring on foot, snowshoe or cross country skis.

How to Get to Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is about 300 km north of Toronto, Ontario and about 260 km west of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada’s capital. The easiest way to access the park is by vehicle. Not only do you need a car to reach the park, but it’s helpful for getting around the park. 

Within Algonquin is the Highway 60 Corridor, a stretch of highway that passes through the southern part of the park. From this highway you can access lakes, campgrounds, hiking trails, the Algonquin Visitor’s Centre, museums, and more. 

Costello Lake in Algonquin Park during summer
Costello Lake, Algonquin Park

How to drive to Algonquin from Ottawa

From Ottawa, the drive takes about 2.5 hours. Take the highway 417 west all the way to Renfrew, and from there switch to the 60 which takes you the rest of the way. When you pass through Whitney, Ontario, you’ll drive just 10 minutes further to enter the park. 

How to drive to Algonquin from Toronto

Road tripping from Toronto it takes about 3.5 hours to reach Algonquin. Take the highway 400 north towards Barrie, and then the 11 towards Huntsville. At Huntsville, you take the 60 eastward which eventually takes you through the park corridor. 

How to Get to Algonquin Provincial Park Without a Car

Don’t worry if you’re visiting from abroad, or you are Canadian but don’t own a car. There are still ways to get to Algonquin Park! You can either rent a vehicle, carpool with others, or opt to take the bus. 

The views on the Track and Tower Trail, which is covered in this first timer's guide to exploring Algonquin Park
Track and Tower Trail lookout, Algonquin Park

Rent a car for your trip to Algonquin

Renting a car in Canada is easily done as long as you are over 25 years of age and have a valid G license (for Canadians). If you are non-Canadian, you’ll need an International License to rent a car.

Take the Parkbus from Toronto

Parkbus is a service that connects city dwellers with nature through accessible transportation options. They operate bus services to National and Provincial Parks from major cities across Canada.

And, yes, you guessed it! They operate a bus service from downtown Toronto to various points in Algonquin Park.

It’s possible to book the bus for a day trip from Toronto, but given the distance, I recommend staying a couple nights in the park. The bus trip costs around $150, and Parkbus can also help you rent camping gear if you don’t have any. You can check out Parkbus, here!

A glamping site at Four Corners Algonquin near Algonquin Park
Our glamping site at Four Corners Algonquin.

Can You Day Trip To Algonquin Park?

Yes, you can day trip to Algonquin Park. Day use passes are available which provide you access to the park and its facilities for a day trip.

If you’re day tripping to Algonquin, I recommend planning your day trip from a nearby destination like Muskoka, Huntsville, or Renfrew.

While it’s possible to day trip to Algonquin from Toronto or Ottawa, the drive is at minimum 3 hours each direction, depending on traffic. Especially on weekends when there’s a lot of traffic, a day trip to the park will involve many hours in the car.

Where to Stay in Algonquin Park

On our last trip to Algonquin (summer 2020), my partner and I opted to stay in a glamping site: Four Corners Algonquin. They offer affordable glamping with great access to the park.

We were glad we picked this for this particular trip because it ended up raining quite a lot! We were able to stay snug inside our big tent despite the bad weather.

Galeairy Lake at sunset during the summer, near Whitney Ontario
Galeairy Lake, Whitney

Camping is my pick, but there are many options for accommodation while in Algonquin Park. Below you’ll find my personal favourites, as well as a couple options based on pricing and accommodation style. 

Four Corners Algonquin

Four Corners Algonquin is a private camping site that is just outside the east gate of Algonquin Park. We love this site because you have several options for accommodation, and all of their accommodations provide the basic things you need to camp.

You can book a prospector / safari style tent (including a king size bed!), a bunkie, or even a basic pole tent (this one’s a great low budget option). There’s an option to fit every budget, and the best part is, they have a sparkly clean comfort station with bathrooms and hot showers!

Views on the Whiskey Rapids Trail in Algonquin Park
Whiskey Rapids Trail, Algonquin Park

Provincial Park Camping

Camping inside Algonquin is the classic Canadian way to visit the park! This is probably your most economical way to visit, too. Booking is done through the link above, but be warned that it’s important to book far in advance, because campsites fill up fast.

For visitors from abroad, keep in mind that you’ll need camping equipment. It’s possible to rent camping equipment in Toronto from Toronto Outdoor. 

Wolf Den Nature Retreat Hostel

If camping isn’t your style, or you’re traveling solo and would like to connect with others, Wolf Den Nature Retreat’s hostel is a fantastic option. They offer various types of accommodation, from hostel dorms with single beds to private rooms with shared bathrooms.

Regardless of what type of accommodation you choose, you have access to the Wolf Den’s kitchen facilities and common room.

Plus, there’s a communal fire pit, sauna, and you can access swimming and hiking just outside the lodge! If hostels aren’t your thing, you can also opt to rent one of Wolf Den’s private rooms or cabins. 

Arowhon Pines

Arowhon Pines is your luxury option! This all-inclusive resort is found inside Algonquin Park, on the shores of a peaceful lake. Lodging, meals, and recreation are included – this means you can go canoeing, paddle boarding, hiking and more! They’ve even got tennis courts. Fancy!

Views on the Track and Tower Trail in Algonquin Park in Ontario
Track and Tower Trail, Algonquin Park

How to Get Your Algonquin Park Pass

Unless you are driving the Highway 60 Corridor without stopping, you have to purchase an Algonquin Park Pass. Visitors have the option to purchase a daily vehicle permit, which should be displayed in your car whenever you park within Algonquin. 

If you are camping inside Algonquin, your camping fee includes your park pass. Many of the lodges and accommodations inside and nearby Algonquin also include a parking pass in their fees, but it’s good to double check. 

If you need to purchase a pass, stop at the East Gate or the West Gate when you’re entering Algonquin Park. The gates are indicated really clearly by signage. As of summer 2020, the day use pass per vehicle was $18.00 CAD. 

A woman walking on the Spruce Bog Boardwalk in Algonquin Park
Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Algonquin Park

Hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park

Within Algonquin Park there are 14 designated trails, all of which are accessible from the Highway 60 Corridor.  The trails range quite a lot in difficulty and length, which means there’s definitely something for everyone. 

My favourite short hikes are the 1-3 kilometer ones, like Whiskey Rapids Trail and The Lookout Trail. Depending on your pace, these can be accomplished in 30 minutes to 1 hour, and they reward you with beautiful (and satisfying!) views. 

Algonquin Park on a sunny day
Track and Tower Trail, Algonquin Park

The Spruce Bog Boardwalk trail is another favourite of mine. This 1.5 kilometer loop is short, and the trail is flat all the way through. Thanks to the boardwalk and level ground, this one is also wheelchair accessible. The walk takes you through swamp and bog, exposing you to the ecology of Algonquin Spruce bogs. 

For a moderately difficult hike, you can opt for the Bat Lake Day Trail or Booth’s Rock Day Trail. On our last visit, we opted for the Track & Tower Trail and it did not disappoint! More on that in the next section of this guide. If you’d like to do a super challenging trail, go for the Mizzy Lake Day Trail or Centennial Ridges Day Trail. 

The views while hiking Algonquin Park.
The views while hiking Algonquin Park.

Hiking the Track & Tower Trail

On this trip to Algonquin, my partner and I decided to do a moderate trail (although some say this one is difficult).

Track & Tower trail was the perfect pick because the trail is one of the longer ones in the park, but it rewards you with an incredible lookout view of Algonquin Park. 

Track & Tower trail is a 7.5 kilometer loop. Most of the trail is flat, except for a middle portion that requires you to go uphill and climb a couple flights of wooden stairs. The uphill part is tough, but it’s worth it because that climb is what earns you the view below! This view looks out over Cache Lake. 

The lookout views on the Track and Tower Trail, Algonquin Park
The lookout views on the Track and Tower Trail, Algonquin Park

This trail also offers the opportunity to learn some of Algonquin’s fascinating history. At the beginning of the hike, you can pick up a guide booklet that will explain all of the landmarks you encounter along the way.

Those landmarks include lakes, rivers, old railroad artifacts, and more. We finished this trail in just under three hours, but I’d budget four hours just in case you take a slower pace.

Track and Tower Trail is located at km 25.0 of Highway 60. Latitude/Longitude: 45.559924°, -78.577561°

Swimming in Algonquin Park

There are plenty of swimming options within Algonquin. Every campground and picnic area within the park has lake access for swimming. There are also many public beaches that can be accessed from Highway 60. If you’re adventurous, go for a dip in one of the lakes you encounter while hiking!

Here are some of my favorite swimming spots within Algonquin: 

  • Lake of Two Rivers picnic ground and beach – This publicly accessible beach has picnicking as well as beach area. It’s a great spot for swimming, lounging, cooking, and kayaking too!
  • Canisbay Lake – This campground has two swimming areas. One is designated for campers, the other is for day use.
  • East Beach picnic ground and beach – This spot is right off of Highway 60 and is a popular beach for picnicking and swimming. 
A woman floating in Rock Lake, Algonquin Park, in the summer
Rock Lake, Algonquin Park

Canoeing or Kayaking in Algonquin Park

If you don’t have your own canoe or kayak, you can easily rent one in Algonquin Park. It’s possible to rent for day use, or for several days.

There’s also the option to rent a paddle board! If you are planning on staying in a canoe-access camping site or doing portaging, you can rent your canoe long-term. These are the most convenient shops to rent your equipment from: 

  • Algonquin Outfitters – There are two locations of this shop that are convenient to Algonquin Park: Oxtongue Lake and Lake Opeongo. 
  • Opeongo Outfitters – This shop offers delivery service. They will bring your canoe or kayak to you as long as you are camping along the Highway 60 Corridor. 
  • Algonquin Bound Outfitters – This shop is on the east end of the park, so if you are coming from Toronto it is not convenient. This shop is convenient if traveling to the park from Ottawa. 
The outside of Algonquin Visitor Centre
Algonquin Visitor Centre

The Algonquin Visitor Centre 

The Algonquin Visitor Centre opened in 1993 to celebrate the 100th year since the park was officially designated. Located at kilometer 43 of the Highway 60 Corridor, the centre is an essential stop for anyone visiting the park. 

The centre is open year round, and is free to visit (as long as you’ve got your Algonquin Pass)! Inside you’ll find a restaurant, as well as museum exhibits that cover the human history of the park, as well as the ecology and animals of Algonquin. You’ll also find a bookstore, gift shop, and a viewing deck. 

We spent about an hour in the visitor’s centre, which felt like enough time for us, but depending on your pace in museums, you could spend up to 2. 

A logger's cabin at the Algonquin Logging Museum
A logger’s cabin at the Algonquin Logging Museum

Algonquin Park Logging Museum 

The Algonquin Park Logging Museum is another must-do while visiting Algonquin! This museum is free to visit (as long as you’ve purchased an Algonquin Pass). It starts with a short indoor exhibit that introduces you to the history of logging in the region. You’ll also find a gift shop in this indoor part of the museum. 

The rest of the museum is open air. You’ll walk an easy 1.5 kilometer loop trail that includes recreated scenes of logging life. For example, you’ll get to step back in time and experience a logger’s cabin. Exploring inside the cabin, you’ll learn what life was like for the men who spent their winters working in the park. 

Algonquin Park in winter

Algonquin Park in the Winter

Algonquin Park is open year round, although hours of operation vary during the winter months. In the winter, the park is blanketed in a layer of fluffy white snow, and the days are short. It’s a wonderful time of year to experience the solitude of the park’s wilderness. 

During the winter there are some recreational activities that you can do. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter trekking, and dogsledding are among my favourites.

It’s important in the winter to be careful of snowstorms, deep snow conditions, and early dusk. As long as you check weather conditions regularly, winter in Ontario is a unique time to visit Algonquin Park.

A woman jumping in the air on the Whiskey Rapids Trail, Algonquin Park
Whiskey Rapids Trail, Algonquin Park

Tips for Visiting Algonquin Park

Traveling to a provincial park can take some planning, so I’m including some tips on what is useful to bring, what to look out for, and more. Beyond the tips below, remember to do your best to be a responsible tourist.

Pack several layers of clothing

Pack layers, even in the summer. Algonquin Provincial Park can become cool in the evenings, so I always bring a sweater, leggings, and socks in case I get chilly. Sunscreen and bug spray are a good idea, too!

Prepare for the rain

Especially if you’re camping, rain can make for an uncomfortable trip if you don’t have rain gear to keep you dry. Even if the forecast is looking sunny, it’s a good idea to prepare for rain. A rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and an umbrella are good to have packed in the event that some rain rolls in. 

Pack in and pack out

Following the rules of packing in and packing out is a great way to be a responsible tourist. This means you should avoid leaving any litter behind, even if it’s organic. When hiking, stow any waste in a reusable container and dispose of it properly when you return to your lodge or campsite. 

Views on the Spruce Bog Trail, Algonquin Park
Spruce Bog Trail, Algonquin Park

Stay on Algonquin Park’s trails

Stay on the trails and use the outhouses and public washrooms. Leaving trails can disturb the ecology of the region and habitats of animals, and, it can cause damage to this provincial park’s topsoil. 

Check yourself for ticks

Beware of ticks. Algonquin is very low risk for ticks carrying lyme disease, but it is still always a good idea to check your body for little ticks after a hike in the wilderness. You can also protect yourself by wearing long pants and socks when hiking. 

Respect Algonquin Park’s wildlife

Watch out for wildlife. It’s very possible to encounter deer, moose, bears, and other wildlife in Algonquin Park. Always be respectful of wildlife, and do your best not to disturb their habitats. If you are nervous of bears, hike with a buddy and be sure to make yourself known by actively talking and making noise. Most bears are more scared of you than you are of them! 

And on that note – if you are camping, keep your food stowed in your car! Bears and other creatures might get into your food stash if you leave it out overnight. 

Algonquin Park FAQ

Can you just drive through Algonquin Park?

You do not need a park pass to drive Highway 60 through Algonquin Park. A day pass is only needed if you stop to use any of the park’s facilities, like beaches, washrooms, picnic areas, or parking lots.


What is the best time to visit Algonquin Park?

The best time of year to visit Algonquin Park is during the summer and fall months. During the winter, facility dates and hours of operation vary, but it’s a wonderful time of year to do winter activities like snowshoeing in the park.


Why should I visit Algonquin Park?

Algonquin Provincial Park has a long history of being a favourite park amongst Canadians and visitors from abroad. The park is over 7000 kms squared of wilderness, and has over 1500 inland lakes. There are 14 designated hiking trails within the park, and over 2000 canoe routes (including portaging). 


Looking for more inspiration for traveling near Toronto, Canada? Here’s more from Pina Travels: 

15 thoughts on “A First Timer’s Guide to Exploring Algonquin Park”

  1. Algonquin Provincial Park looks like such a fun place to visit. I would love to visit during the wintertime! It looks gorgeous. The logging museum also looks super cool.

  2. Thank you for your guide to Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s really a good advice for me! I would love to visit next time!

  3. I would absolutely love to go canoeing or kayaking at such a gorgeous place! I’m such a water lover so I always try to do these things if I get the chance.

  4. Canada has such gorgeous parks! We wanted to visit Algonquin Park when we were staying in Toronto, but we couldn’t get seats on the parkbus (this was before we moved to Canada, so we were a bit too nervous to drive ourselves.) Next time I will hire a car so we can visit and go hiking!

    I would want to head up to the highest point, and the relax, swim and go camping. It is such a gorgeous area. 🙂

    We live on the West coast, so I have still never seen a moose…I would hope to see one (from afar) sooo much! Did you ever see moose in Algonquin Park?

  5. Wow this is so good! Canada is like a dream country for me to visit as an outdoorsy person. But the problem would be that I would not know where to start, just try doing it all. So this guide is so helpful! Will save it for later.

  6. Canada has so much natural beauty! I’ve been numerous times but have yet to visit any parks. I would love to explore Algonquin Park next time I’m in Canada!

  7. Wow! This place is beautiful. I love the forests, like straight out of a movie. I haven’t been to Canada yet, but I am definitely excited to. I will have to add this place to my must-see list. Being from Florida, Canada always just seems so close compared to traveling internationally, but I definitely need to start exploring my own continent!

  8. This is so comprehensive. I have driven through and yet have never once stayed in Algonquin. I really want to stay in the winter actually. I feel like it would be peaceful and cozy. This is a great guide for any season. Thanks so much.

  9. I came across your blog when I was planning a virtual field trip to Algonquin (thanks Covid) for my students. I became so excited about the beauty of Algonquin that I decided to go for it. I booked a stay at Four Corners Algonquin to go glamping and I loved it so much I plan on going back in the fall and next summer! Thank you for these wonderful suggestions. I never went to Algonquin as a kid like many of my friends did, and I always wanted to experience this Canadian gem. Thank you.

  10. Wow, what a great write up. Thank you so much. This is going to help me plan my itinerary for sure. Thank you so very much! Great job!

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