Algoma Highlands: Flack Lake Loop (5 days / 40 km)

This 3-5 day trip in the Algoma Highlands is an incredibly scenic trip for those looking to enjoy a beautiful flatwater paddle on stunning lakes without the crowds of the more accessible provincial parks in southern Ontario. The route begins on Flack Lake just west of Mississagi Provincial Park, ascends through crown land to the eastern section of Blind River Provincial Park, dabbles in some cottage country territory on Ten-Mile Lake and returns through some stunningly beautiful crown land on its return to Flack Lake.

On the way, paddlers can expect to enjoy crystal clear deepwater lakes in the rugged splendor of the Canadian shield, fantastic trout fishing, and some challenging portages. It is a highly recommended trip for those who enjoy the beauty of places like Algonquin and Killarney but don’t mind travelling a little further from southern Ontario to escape the crowds.

Trip Completed: July 2021

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Flack Lake - parking and launching can be done from either Laurentian Lodge or at the Mississagi Provincial Park office on the east end of the lake. Both locations charge a fee to park. Contact Melanie at Laurentian Lodge to arrange. (705) 848-0423. 

Ending Point: As it is a circuit route, the trip ends again on Flack Lake. It can be done in either direction. Whether paddlers choose clockwise or a counter-clockwise direction, there will be long portages at the beginning with fully loaded packs.

Total Distance: 40 km

Duration: Without a rest day, the trip can be done comfortably in 4 days. It can be done in 3 days without the side trip to Upper Mace Lake, though the side trip was the highlight of the trip. 

Difficulty: Intermediate. There are some difficult portages outside of the provincial parks that are not regularly maintained. 

Location

This route is located in the Penokean Hills in the Algoma Highlands, north of the city of Elliot Lake. Refer to the map below for starting point, p...