Algonquin Provincial Park: Rock Lake to Clydegale Lake (3 days / 30 km)

Clydegale Lake is one of the most popular canoe routes in Algonquin that isn't located on a main access point like Canoe Lake or Opeongo Lake. And the popularity is for good reason! Clydegale Lake offers a feeling of remoteness & prime moose-spotting potential with just two relatively easy portages. 

Our trip to Clydegale Lake was a 3-day in and out trip through Rock Lake and Pen Lake during an unusually hot weekend in June. We were blessed with smooth waters on the way in and tailwinds on our return - we were incredibly grateful to surf back to Rock Lake! And our total moose spotting was five (two adult females and three baby calves).

Trip Completed: June 2020

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Rock Lake (Access Point 9)

Ending Point: Rock Lake (Access Point 9)

Total Distance: 32 km through 3 lakes

Duration: 3 Days, 2 nights

Difficulty: Beginner, with some paddling & camping experience (2 portages but ~15k paddle one way) 

Location: This route is located in Algonquin Provincial Park, specifically in the Algonquin Highlands. Unlike many of the more popular routes, this one is south of 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

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

We used Algonquin Outfitters – Opeongo. The bonus...