Frontenac Provincial Park: Slide Lake Loop (3 days / 30 km)

Frontenac Provincial Park is a four-season, backcountry only park located just 45 minutes from Kingston, Ontario. The park offers over 100 km of hiking and backpacking trails on 10 interconnecting loops. 

This intermediate backpacking route follows the Slide Lake Loop—the most difficult hiking loop in the park due to its length and ruggedness. The trail crosses many barren rock ridges and features scenic lookouts, ponds, and marshes. The south part of the Slide Lake Loop overlaps with the Rideau Trail—the 387 km trail network between Ottawa and Kingston—and this section is jointly maintained by Ontario Parks and the Rideau Trail Association. 

Our campsites were chosen based on availability at the time of booking, so there are alternative ways to complete this loop. This freedom afforded by route planning is just one of the reasons Frontenac is a wonderful backcountry destination for all levels. The loop could be completed in less time by experienced backpackers wanting a challenge, while Frontenac’s other trails may be better suited to beginners!

Trip Completed: June 2022

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Arab Lake Parking Lot

Ending Point: Arab Lake Parking Lot

Total Distance: 30 km

Elevation Gain: 784 m

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Difficulty: Intermediate

Location

Frontenac Provincial Park is located in eastern Ontario near the town of Sydenham. The park is only 45 minutes from Kingston and about 2 hours from Ottawa.

Traditional Territory: This route takes place on the traditional territory of Anishinabewaki, Mississauga, and Wendake-Nionwentsïo (source). 

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: N/A

Map: Frontenac Park Map by Ontario Parks (We used the 5th edition of this map, but the 6th edition is available now)

Campsite Reservations: Campsite bookings are made in advance through the Ontario Parks Online Reservation system. Specific campsites are reserved. Friends of Frontenac Park maintains a...