Endless wilderness at Lake Superior: Hiking in Pukaskwa National Park in Ontario
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Pukaskwa National Park is Ontario's largest national park and one of the wildest natural areas on Lake Superior. On this hike, I combine several trails into a varied day trip along the shore. Here you'll find all the information, including GPS data.
Ontario's largest national park is located directly on Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world.
I can't decide which trail to hike.
So I'll just do them all. Or almost all of them.
My route combines sections of the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail, Beach Trail, Manito Mikana Trail and Southern Headland Trail into a varied hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the park.
Key Facts about hiking in Pukaskwa National Park
♡ factor: ♡♡♡♡♡
Difficulty: easy to medium
Highlight: Coastal scenery at Lake Superior
Especially beautiful: the views from the Southern Headland Trail and the beaches along the Beach Trail
My tip: Plan enough time for photo stops and the sunset.
Coastline, waves and endless wilderness
Here, enormous waves crash against rugged rocky coasts.
Endless sunsets illuminate driftwood beaches.
Beyond it stretches boreal forest to the horizon.
The diverse coastal landscape, the harsh climate and the remote location make Pukaskwa National Park an absolutely worthwhile national park to visit in Canada.
Those who love nature can spend days hiking, paddling, or simply sitting by the water and listening to the waves.
Anishinaabe culture
My tip: Take your time to read the information panels on the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail.
They provide fascinating insights into the culture and history of the Anishinaabe First Nations , whose home has been this region for centuries.
It is precisely this combination of nature and culture that makes the trail particularly interesting.
The most beautiful viewpoints
I especially like the viewpoint with the red Parks Canada chairs on the Southern Headland Trail. From here you can look out over the forests and the shoreline of Lake Superior. A perfect spot for a break.
My tip: Come to the beaches along the Beach Trail for sunset.
Whether for photography, a picnic, or a sundowner
Wine by the campfire
That evening, I was taking photos on the beach when a woman asked me if I'd seen another woman with a dog. I hadn't. A few minutes later, a second woman with a dog came by and introduced herself as Alana. I told her that her friend was looking for her. Shortly after, Jacqueline (the first woman) reappeared – with a bottle of wine and two glasses.
The two spontaneously invited me first for a glass of wine and later for dinner in front of their luxurious camper.
We sit around the campfire and tell stories.
I am always amazed by how friendly and open the people in Canada are.
I would actually like to stay
I wake up the next morning. I would love to go hiking again immediately.
Or rent a kayak. Or simply spend another day at Lake Superior.
Unfortunately, I have to move on.
My tip: Plan at least two or three days for Pukaskwa National Park.
The park is a paradise for hikers and kayakers. Boats can also be rented on site.
Click on the first photo to see the whole story:
Throughout the entire hike you have fantastic views of the various lakes. Some are no bigger than ponds. Framed by coniferous trees and granite rocks The atmosphere is particularly fantastic at sunset. Park Canada's red chairs are always placed in the most beautiful spots. On the beach, you have the feeling of being by the sea.
General information
General information about accommodations and activities can be found on the website of Finding a destination in Ontario .
Information about Pukaskwa National Park
Current information on the condition of the hiking trails and campsite reservations can be found here:
Safety instructions
The rocks along the coast can be extremely slippery when wet.
Black bears live in Pukaskwa National Park.
Here's how to behave when encountering a bear:
National Park entrance
There is an entrance fee for national parks in Canada.
If you plan to visit multiple national parks, the Parks Canada Discovery Pass is a worthwhile investment . It is valid for one year at all Parks Canada facilities.
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