Algonquin Provincial Park: Opeongo Lake to Canoe Lake (6 days / 58 km)

A fantastic route for a week long flat water trip through the heart of Algonquin Provincial Park. This route has a great combination of large lakes, challenging portages, small creeks, and brilliant views. Suitable for intermediate paddlers looking to spend more than just a weekend in the park.

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Opeongo Lake (Access Point 11)

Ending Point: Canoe Lake (Access Point 4)

Total Distance: 58 km

Duration: 6 days / 5 nights

Difficulty: Beginner / Intermediate (a few long portages)

Location: This route is located in Algonquin Provincial Park. Both Opeongo Lake (starting point) and Canoe Lake (ending point) are accessible from Highway 60.

Traditional Territory: This route in Algonquin Provincial Park is located on the traditional territory of the Omàmìwininìwag (Algonquin) and Anishinabewaki (source).

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: N/A

Map: Official Canoe Routes Map of Algonquin Park

Interactive Route Map: Click here to view and edit this route using the Canoe Route Planner

Permits & Reservations

Campsite Reservations: Campsite reservations are required through the Ontario Parks reservation portal. Reservations are for a campsite on a specific lake, not a specific campsite (i.e. Rock Lake).

Camping Permits: Camping permits must be picked up from Opeongo Lake before starting your canoe trip.

Outfitters & Shuttles

An outfitter wasn't used for this trip, however, a shuttle is needed from Canoe Lake (Access Point 4) to Opeongo Lake (Access Point 11) at the end of the trip. Algonquin Outfitters is recommended.

Trip Report

Day 1: Lake Opeongo Access Point to Middle of Opeongo (8 km)

Launching from Access point 11 has many benefits. The Algonquin Outfitters on site is a great place to rent gear or buy items you may have forgotten to pack. There are also washrooms and showers.

From there it comes down to how long you wish to paddle on y...