Granite Ridge - Killarney Provincial Park

Granite Ridge is a moderate 2.3km trail in Killarney Provincial Park. It is an excellent introduction to the features of the park without having to negotiate the far more advanced La Cloche Silhouette trail.

The trail starts out heading west through a pine plantation before heading south  and then west as you walk through  the remains of an early settler's farm. There are 2 derelict cars left to be reclaimed by the forest that make an interesting photo opportunity.

Remains of Billy Blair's car.

After 750m the trail starts to ascend the granite ridge. There are a few steep sections but it is easily manageable if you take your time. There are two spectacular views from the top of the ridge. Unfortunately, I hiked the trail after a large thunderstorm and the area was still clothed in a mist so I was not able to see these views. I have been told, however, that there are fantastic views of the La Cloche mountains to the north, and Georgian Bay to the south.

The return is through a hemlock forest with only one steep section before returning through the farm and plantation. A good set of shoes are recommended.

For all pictures from my hike to Granite Ridge, click here.






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Centennial Ridges - Algonquin Provincial Park

Centennial Ridges is one of the longest and easily the most difficult of the day hiking trails in Algonquin Park. The trail can be reached from an access road at km 37.6 of Highway 60.

After leaving the parking lot the trail makes it's way past a swampy area before starting the first of two steep climbs. The trail takes a left turn and you have the first stunning vista of Algonquin park.

The path follows the edge of the ridge for several hundred metres and you can clearly see Whitefish Lake, Lake of Two Rivers and other features from this high vantage point. The trail then turns away from the edge and heads east into the thick Algonquin forest. After passing a beaver pond the trail climbs sharply again and you soon come to another lookout, higher than before. You are now close to 170 meters (560 feet) higher than the parking lot.

The trail meanders south for a while, following cliff edges and then darting back into the forest. Elevation changes occur often. After one steep descent you will come out on the picturesque Cloud Lake. This small lake has a beautiful cliff backdrop.

A rugged section follows Cloud Lake as the trail turns west and darts up and down before going past a very pretty pond and then climbing one last time to another ridge. From this vantage point you have a clear view of Whitefish Lake and, further south, Rock Lake.

After following this ridge for a while the path then descends past Rutter Lake and descends steeply back down to the parking lot.

This hike is definitely not for inexperienced hiker. There are many elevation changes and the footing is sometimes treacherous. Sturdy footwear is necessary.

For more pictures from the Centennial Ridges trail, click here.





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