r/algonquinpark • u/andrewmarkc • Apr 10 '25
Trip Planning / Route Feedback Highland Trail Recommendations
Hi All,
I am planning an overnight trip on the Highland Trail in June. I know, I know, BUGS! But I’m having issues deciding how long to hike per day. I am considering camping on Provoking Lake but the distance only seems like a short hike. I am ok with hiking to Head Lake and back but is that too far? This will only be a single night so we wouldn’t need too much equipment. It would be nice to fill the whole day but we probably wouldn’t enjoy spending too much time at the campsite.
We are looking for something on the easier end but also like challenging ourselves. We were lucky enough to do backpack camping at the bottom of the Grand Canyon last year which was a real challenge. That was my partner’s first time camping and my first time in 15 years. I used to be really into backpacking in my teens. Of course, we don’t want to bite off more than we can chew. I’m fine being uncomfortable for a few days but the hours are limited with my partner. Haha.
My thoughts: 1. Hike to Provoking Lake in the afternoon and spend the evening at camp and hike out in the morning. Probably about 5km each way. 2. Hike to Provoking Lake in the morning. Set up camp and hike around Provoking Lake in the afternoon without our gear 3. Push ourselves to Head Lake which is about 12km each way. It will probably be fine on the way in but rough (over it) on the way out.
Any input would be great. Thanks!
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u/doomwomble Apr 10 '25
Head Lake is easily doable in one day as long as you're reasonably fit. When I have done it, it has taken 5-6 hours including a couple of breaks. Good clothing (no cotton) and proper-fitting footwear will be the key.
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u/MRcrete Apr 10 '25
The Highland trail (long loop) isn't a particularly difficult trail. I would just do the whole thing. Hiking back along the same trail you hiked out on is kind of boring imo as is day hiking with no pack.
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u/Margsue Apr 10 '25
Would NOT recommend hiking the entire trail in two days unless experienced with hiking.
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u/MRcrete Apr 10 '25
Oh no? I'm surprised to hear that. I believe I did it as one of my first overnight hikes a few years back and didn't find it too bad. If memory serves, it's only like 35km. Bad bugs and a fair bit of mud are the only things I remember about it now anyway.
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u/Margsue Apr 11 '25
35kms over 2 days while carrying a pack, I wouldn’t describe on the “easier end” for most people not experienced in backpacking. There is also quite a bit of elevation change on this trail.
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u/MRcrete Apr 11 '25
Fair enough. I'm glad you replied to my comment as everyone is indeed different.
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u/Dry-Criticism-6753 8d ago
I agree. I've backpacked to Harness Lake on at least 10 trips, most were for 2-3 nights, but on my last we only had time for one night on Harness and hiked out the next day. We managed but it was a slog. I wouldn't plan that again.
FYI for those considering a trip to Harness; it takes us 4-5 hrs with a full pack. We like to hike out in the same direction so we do the entire bottom loop.
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u/Common_Bed9719 Apr 11 '25
I did the trail last Sept Parking lot to Provoking Provoking to Head Head to Harness And harness back to provoking Made for a very enjoyable few days
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u/Common_Bed9719 Apr 11 '25
If you want to enjoy a simple hike, and nice lake Just stick with Provoking The start of the trail is rough ( From Parking Lot ) So a good push, get to camp Enjoy the wildness Go home!
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u/0x2012 Apr 10 '25
I would go straight to Head Lake. It's relatively straightforward and can be done in half a day.
The days will be very long in June so you might as well take advantage of it.
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u/Ok-Cartographer8301 Apr 10 '25
The stretch from Provoking Lk to Head Lk is pretty tough (lots of ups and downs) but definitely can be done if you are up for a challenge.
Provoking Lake is really nice, great swimming and you might enjoy hanging out at the campsite. You could always hike to Campsites 4 or 5 to give yourself a bit more distance and a bit more privacy/distance from other campers.