Algonquin Provincial Park has everything you need for your fall adventures if you want to see the fall colors this month.
Now some may argue that a day trip to Algonquin is a bit much, but even if your budget doesn’t include accommodation, the drive can still be worth it.
Here’s a guide to the must-see sights that will make the drive from the city worthwhile.
Autumn view from Track and Tower Trail, Algonquin Park.
What to do and see in Algonquin
Algonquin Park covers nearly 8,000 square kilometers from Muskoka to Haliburton to near the Ottawa River, meaning there’s plenty to explore here. Made famous by the Group of Seven Artists in the early 19th century, this park has a different feel than most other parks in Ontario.
Track and Tower is one of the most popular and impressive hikes in the park. The 7.5 km hike takes you along ponds, through forests and up some impressively steep stairs to views of the region.
This hike is named after an old railroad line and the site of an old fire tower. Unfortunately, only the remains of the trestle bridges remain today, but nearby memorial plaques describe the history and show what it once looked like when trains ran here over 100 years ago.
Boardwalk paths in Algonquin Park.
If you want to learn more about fire towers, consider the Fire Tower Trail at mile 43. Here you can learn more about the history of the towers while enjoying the views of the region.
Further south, the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower is closed for the season but is based on an old fire tower. You can climb it to enjoy the view from a height of 100 feet.
If you want something shorter instead, consider the Algonquin Lookout Trail. This quick and easy hike is about 2km long and also offers great views of the region, while the Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail is a short 1.5km hike full of colorful trees, native wildlife and accessible boardwalks.
The most important thing about any adventure in this area is to book well in advance. Park passes are available up to seven days in advance on the Ontario Parks website. Choose the Hwy 60 pass for more hiking options.
The Bend Lookout, Arrowhead Provincial Park.
Exploring beyond Algonquin Park
Huntsville and the surrounding area also have a lot to offer. Some of the best places to visit include Arrowhead Provincial Park, Oxtongue River – Ragged River Falls and Limberlost Forest.
Arrowhead Provincial Park has a beautiful waterfall and some spectacular viewpoints throughout the park. It may be best known for its winter activities (ice skating is a must here!), but the waterfall is beautiful any time of year.
The combination of Beaver Meadow Trail and Stubb Falls is the best way to enjoy Arrowhead. Adding Bend Lookout, just a short walk from the parking lot, will nicely round out your experience here.
Oxtongue Rapid Falls near the Algonquin Entrance is the perfect moment to stretch your legs. The 1-2 km trail takes you to the falls (in fact, they are considered one of the best in Ontario).
One of the most popular and lesser-known hikes in the area is the Solitaire Lake Loop in Limberlost Forest. This aptly named 6km route takes you around a beautiful lake that is calm and never too crowded.
If you prefer to stay in downtown Huntsville, be sure to check out the Hunters Bay Trail. Comprised of a 500m floating boardwalk and a 3.6km hiking trail, it is actually a section of the Great Trail, the world’s largest network of multi-use trails.
Hunters Bay Boardwalk Trail, Huntsville.
Where should we eat?
Farmer’s Daughter is a local staple. At the deli counter they offer prepared meals, freshly baked treats and weekly specials. This is the perfect place to grab a hot drink and some picnic food and enjoy it at the top of a viewpoint.
Music on Main in Huntsville offers smoothies, sandwiches and a variety of hot and cold beverages. The special thing about this place is that it is also a guitar shop that offers services and live music on special occasions.
If you’re looking for somewhere to sit, consider Main St Local in Huntsville. They offer breakfast until 3pm and a selection of burgers, sandwiches and salads throughout the day. Heartier dinners are served after 4 p.m. To ensure your spot, be sure to reserve a spot.
If you want to stay overnight
If you want to see it all or experience a clear night full of stars, this is where you should stay.
Arrowhead and Algonquin offer a range of camping options, from backcountry camping and car camping to rustic cabins and yurts that sleep up to 5 people. You can book these through Ontario Parks.
For a more luxurious (but rustic) option, Killarney Lodge in Algonquin Park is a great option. Rooms offer beautiful park and lake views and sleep up to 5 people starting at about $330 per person per night.