The Highway 60 corridor is home to sixteen signed day-hiking trails and two backpacking routes, offering everything from short boardwalk loops to full-day ridge climbs. Distances range from one to just over ten kilometres, with most trails rated moderate, making them accessible to a wide range of hikers. Along the way, you will encounter rapids, old-growth pine, wildlife-rich wetlands, and some of the best viewpoints in Algonquin.
What to expect along Highway 60
- Sixteen signed day-hiking trails
- Open year-round
- Distances from one to 10.8 kilometres
- Mostly moderate difficulty
- Scenic highlights including rapids, ridges, bogs, old-growth pine, and wildlife
- Two backpacking routes suitable for out-and-back day trips
- Parking available at all trailheads
Trail guides can be purchased from The Friends of Algonquin Park (algonquinpark.on.ca), and an Algonquin Day Pass is required and can be reserved up to five days before your visit through Ontario Parks at reservations.ontarioparks.ca. If you are short on time, the highlighted trails below offer the best mix of scenery, variety, and classic Algonquin character. And since no one visits Algonquin just once, you will eventually find your way to all sixteen.
Whiskey Rapids
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.1 km (1.3 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 45–60 minutes
Elevation Gain: 40 metres (130 feet)
Access Point: Whiskey Rapids Trailhead – Highway 60; 7.2 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Oxtongue Lake
Whiskey Rapids is the first trail reached when entering the park from the west, and it offers a quick, scenic introduction to Algonquin’s river landscape. The 2.1 km (1.3 mile) loop drops from the highway to the Oxtongue River, following its bends and rapids through a quiet forested valley. Spring is especially impressive when snowmelt swells the river, and the rapids are at their strongest.
The final stretch follows an old tote road once used to haul supplies to Canoe Lake’s logging camps, adding a touch of history to the walk. Birdlife is common along the river, with frequent sightings of warblers, kingfishers, and other riparian species. It is a short, rewarding loop that blends scenery, wildlife, and a glimpse into Algonquin’s past.
Mizzy Lake
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 10.8 km (6.7 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 4–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 30 metres (100 feet)
Access Point: Mizzy Lake Trailhead – Highway 60; 15.4 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Canoe Lake
Mizzy Lake is the longest day hiking trail along Highway 60 and one of the best for wildlife viewing. The 10.8 km (6.7 mile) interpretive loop travels north through mixed forest before reaching an old rail bed that passes Wolf Howl Pond and a series of ponds and marshes. Dogs are not permitted, helping keep the area quiet for moose, beavers, otters, and birdlife, especially in the early morning and evening.
The rail bed is exposed to the sun, so an early start is recommended. Expect wet sections, beaver activity, and classic Algonquin wetland scenery throughout. For hikers who enjoy solitude and wildlife, Mizzy Lake is one of the most rewarding full‑day outings in the park.
Track and Tower
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 7.5 km (4.7 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 2.5–4 hours
Elevation Gain: 95 metres (310 feet)
Access Point: Track and Tower Trailhead – Highway 60; 25 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Lake of Two Rivers
Track and Tower is one of the most popular trails along Highway 60, combining forest walking, creekside scenery, canyon views, and a standout lookout. The 7.5 km (4.7 mile) loop begins in mature forest before reaching a tumbling creek that is especially scenic in spring and winter. A wooden bridge crosses the stream and leads along a tall canyon wall, with a signed side trail climbing to a panoramic viewpoint over Cache Lake at the former site of Skymount Fire Tower.
Beyond the lookout, the route joins the old railway bed built by lumber baron J. R. Booth, where bridge footings and other remnants remain visible. The trail then loops back through the forest to the trailhead, offering a satisfying mix of natural and cultural history in a single hike.
Centennial Ridges
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 10.4 km (4.7 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 4–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 107 metres (350 feet)
Access Point: Centennial Ridges Trailhead – Highway 60; 37.6 km from the West Gate, 2 km south to the trailhead
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Lake of Two Rivers
Centennial Ridges is widely considered the best viewpoint hike in Algonquin. The 10.4 km (6.5 mile) interpretive loop climbs onto two high, parallel ridge systems, visiting multiple cliffs with sweeping views over Whitefish Lake, Wolf Lake, and the surrounding hills. Built to celebrate the park’s 100th anniversary in 1993, it delivers a true full-day hiking experience.
The trail passes several small backcountry lakes and includes steep sections and exposed rock, so hikers should be prepared for a sustained effort. In return, it offers some of the most rewarding scenery in the park, especially during fall colours.
Big Pines
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 20 metres (65 feet)
Access Point: Big Pines Trailhead – Highway 60; 40.3 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Lake of Two Rivers
Big Pines offers a short, engaging walk through the remnants of Algonquin’s once-vast white pine forests. The 2.9 km (1.8 mile) interpretive loop explores the history of logging in the park and the life of lumber baron J. R. Booth, whose operations shaped much of the region.
Along the way, the trail passes approximately 75 old-growth white pines, some more than 200 years old. A few reach 37 metres (122 feet) in height and over a metre in diameter, with the remains of an 1880s lumber camp nearby. It is a compact hike that blends big trees, history, and easy walking.
Spruce Bog Boardwalk
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 km (0.9 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 30–45 minutes
Elevation Gain: Minimal (~10 metres/30 feet)
Access Point: Spruce Boardwalk Trailhead - Highway 60 – 42.5 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Opeongo Lake
Spruce Bog Boardwalk is one of the most accessible and family-friendly trails along Highway 60. The 1.5 km (0.9 mile) interpretive loop follows elevated boardwalks through open spruce bogs, tamarack stands, and floating mats of vegetation, offering a close look at Algonquin’s boreal ecosystem.
It is also one of the best places in the park for birdwatching, with regular sightings of grey jays, boreal chickadees, and woodpeckers. In winter, many birds will take seeds directly from your hand. With its short distance and gentle terrain, this trail is an easy, rewarding stop for visitors of all ages.
Fork Lake Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 2.4 km (1.5 mile) interpretive loop
Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 125 metres (410 feet)
Access Point: Fork Lake Trailhead - Highway 60; 42.5 km from the West Gate
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Opeongo Lake
Fork Lake is Algonquin’s newest trail and delivers a steep but scenic climb in a short distance. The 2.4 km (1.5 mile) interpretive loop rises sharply from lake level via staircases and rocky slopes, gaining 125 metres (410 feet) of elevation to reach a series of hilltop viewpoints over Fork Lake and the surrounding hills.
The route earns its difficult rating despite its modest length, and hiking poles are recommended, especially in wet weather. The views from the top are excellent in all seasons and particularly impressive in autumn.
Western Uplands Backpacking Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: Variable (commonly 6–12 km/3.7–7.5 miles for day trips)
Time: 3–6 hours (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 120 metres (395 feet), depending on section
Access Point: Western Uplands Trailhead – kilometre 3 on Highway 60)
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Oxtongue Lake
The Western Uplands Trail is a multi-day backpacking route, but several sections work well as out-and-back day hikes. Common day trips range from 6 to 12 km (3.7–7.5 miles), following rolling terrain past quiet lakes, beaver meadows, and classic Algonquin forest.
Hikers can tailor their distance by turning around at viewpoints, boardwalks, or favourite lakes. Expect roots, mud, and uneven footing, especially after rain, and consider waterproof footwear. It is a good choice for those wanting a longer, more immersive outing close to Highway 60 without committing to an overnight outing.
Highland Backpacking Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: Variable (commonly 5–10 km/3.1–6.2 miles for day trips)
Time: 3–5 hours (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: 110 metres (360 feet), depending on section
Access Point: Highland Trailhead – kilometre 29.7 on Highway 60)
Nearest Outfitter: Algonquin Outfitters – Lake of Two Rivers
The Highland Backpacking Trail offers rugged terrain, forested ridges, and scenic lookouts that make it a rewarding day-trip destination. Typical out-and-back day hikes cover 5 to 10 km (3.1–6.2 miles), following steep, rocky paths to viewpoints over Provoking Lake and several wetland areas.
The trail is one of the more physically demanding options along Highway 60, with sustained climbs, rocky footing, and muddy lowlands. Strong hikers looking for a challenging half-day adventure will find this route especially satisfying, and it provides a good taste of the full backpacking loop.
Choosing a trail along the Highway 60 Corridor
Every trail along Highway 60 offers its own rhythm – a quiet boardwalk through a spruce bog, a ridge walk with sweeping views, or a winding path beside a tumbling creek. Whether you are looking for a quick leg-stretcher or a full-day adventure, the corridor delivers a remarkable amount of variety in a compact stretch of road.
Try returning to a favourite trail in a different season, or hiking it in reverse for a fresh perspective. Snow transforms the forest in winter, spring brings rushing water and wildlife, and autumn turns the ridges into a blaze of colour. For maps, gear, and local advice, Algonquin Outfitters at Oxtongue Lake or in Huntsville is always a reliable stop.
