Pukaskwa Coastal Trail: Hattie Cove to Fish Harbour (3 days / 51 km)

This was a 3-day backpacking trip on Pukaskwa National Park coastal trail. On this trip, we covered almost half of the trail, to Fish Harbour from Hattie Cove, the trailhead. This was a long weekend adventure. There is also the Mdaabi Miikana loop in Pukaskwa that is 25 km, but the coastal trail allows for more distance and views. The total coastal trail is 60 km one way. It can be done there and back for 120 km, Hattie Cove to North Swallow River and a boat shuttle back or the verse. It is a beautifully rugged park with the quiet of northern Lake Superior.

Trip Completed: August 2020

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Hattie Cove campground

Ending Point: Hattie Cove campground

Total Distance: 51 km

Elevation Gain: 1,110 m

Duration: 3 days

Difficulty: Intermediate

Location

Pukaskwa National Park. Marathon is the closest town with all facilities.

Traditional Territory: This route takes place on the traditional territory of Michif Piyii (Métis) and Anishinabewaki (source).

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: Coastal Hiking Trail Trip Planner Version 2 from Parks Canada

Map: Pukaskwa Chrismar Map

Campsite Reservations: Reservations can be done over the phone or online. You have to book campsites. I think the campground, Hattie Cove is non-reservation, but the backcountry is.

Permits: Upon arrival, you must go through a short orientation as well as pick up your permits for the trip.

Outfitters & Shuttles

We did not use an outfitter but the trip planner from Parks Canada (linked above) lists more boat shuttles and outfitters for this trip.

Trip Report

Day 1: Hattie Cove to Willow River (16 km)

I camped at Neys Provincial Park the night before to get an early start on the trail and often stay at Neys on my way through the area. When I arrived at Hattie Cove, I waited at the visitors center which was closed due to COVID, to wait for my hiking partner. I was able to use the free wifi outdoors whic...