Temagami: Temagami Lake to Florence Lake Loop (8 days / 150 km)

Temagami is one of the most beautiful parts of Ontario, and Florence Lake is definitely one of it’s gems. Part of that allure stems from how remote the lake is, meaning it’s generally difficult to find your way out into this pristine part of the park. We found a way there that also takes us through some of the other highlights of the park, and we’re hoping you’ll enjoy this recount of our experience.

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Boatline Bay Marina on Lake Temagami

Ending Point: Boatline Bay Marina on Lake Temagami

Total Distance: 150 km total. 42 portages totalling 19 km.

Elevation Gain: Portaging from Wakimika to Florence is not easy as you’re basically crossing a height of land between these two lakes. The elevation gain from Naismith Creek up to Chapin lake is 120m over a portage of ~1200m giving you nearly a 20% grade. This was by far the hardest portage on the trip since it seemed no one had been through these portages before us that season. 

Duration: 9 - 10 days if you’re being reasonable. We pushed it in 8 with great weather.

Difficulty: Advanced.

Location

This route takes place in Lady Evelyn Smoothwater Provincial Park and on Crown Land in the Temagami Region. The closest town to the put in is Temagami and the nearest city is Sudbury.

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

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: This route was inspired by Hap Wilson’s publications. The entire route can be found in different sections of Hap Wilson’s guide to paddling Temagami.

Map: Jeff's Map and Ottertooth Maps. It's no longer possible to buy paper copies of Jeff's Maps, however, you can use the ChrisMar Adventure Map Temagami 2 and Temagami 4.

Note: Between the two maps, there are small discrepancies between portage distances.

Campsite Reservations: None of the sites were individually booked.
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