Hiking trails in Algoma Region
Algoma Region | Martin Lortz
Listing all the hiking options in Algoma Region would be endless. But if you’re exploring the east end of Algoma along the Lake Huron North Channel or the Deer Trail Touring Loop, here are six reasons to park the car and take a hike.
Shoreline Discovery Trail
Located at the Spanish Municipal Marina on the shore of Lake Huron, the attraction here is the red-roofed gazebo high atop a rocky bluff, offering a 360-degree vista overlooking the Spanish River Delta, Sagamok Anishnawbek, Whalesback Channel and, of course, the town of Spanish.
While most hikers are happy with the view from the top of the staircase, there are even more views along the 2.5-kilometre (1.5-mile) Shoreline Discovery Hiking Trail that starts behind the pavilion.
Boom Camp Trails
The Boom Camp Interpretive Park is located on the outskirts of the town of Blind River at the mouth of the Mississagi River. The park contains 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) of multi-season trails and is significant for its cultural and natural historical values.
Archaeological evidence and oral traditions of the Mississauga First Nation support the belief that the site was a gathering place occupied by some of the earliest First Nation communities. The eastern access point offers wooded trails showcasing the area's ecological zones. The trails at the western entrance lead to some of the most spectacular beaches in the area.
Rock Candy Mountain Trail
Located approximately 35 kilometres (21 miles) north of the town of Thessalon, the Rock Candy Mountain Trail is a 1.5-kilometre (0.9-mile) hike to a stunning scenic lookout over Cumming Lake, Axe Lake and Tunnel Lake.
To access the trailhead, head north from Thessalon on Highway 129 and take your first right after the Tunnel Lake Trading Post. Here you will find a parking area and a sign marking the trailhead. The trail is a moderately challenging, steady uphill climb to the lookouts.
Horne Lake Trail—Elliot Lake
Starting at Miners' Memorial Park, the Horne Lake Trail loops for 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) around Horne Lake, providing outstanding views of the lake and Elliot Lake. More experienced hikers can ascend nearby cliffs for more views or head uphill to the Fire Tower Lookout.
For a less demanding hiking experience, the nearby Sherriff Creek Wildlife Sanctuary offers trails that lead through marshes and forests—excellent for bird watching and enjoying the thousands of water lilies that fill the wetlands during the summer.
Helenbar Lookout Trail
For something more challenging, the 7-kilometre (4.3-mile) Helenbar Lookout Trail in nearby Mississagi Provincial Park is a must-do, especially in the fall when the trees put on their colourful display.
Located in the Penokean Hills, a 15-minute drive north from Elliot Lake, the trail leads through a hardwood forest to a ridge looking over Helenbar Lake, then back to Semiwite Lake. A white sand beach greets you where the Helenbar Lookout Trail and the Semiwite Creek Trail meet. There are many more hiking and paddling opportunities in the park, and with camping available, staying a while is a worthy option.
The Voyageur Trail and Trans Canada Trail
The Voyageur Hiking Trail is a long-distance hiking trail between Sudbury and Thunder Bay. While there are many access points across the Algoma Region, Tally Ho Park in Iron Bridge is a popular spot.
Visit the park in June and enjoy the fragrant lilac trees, which are more than 100 years old. Head out on a hike along the Trans Canada Trail and Voyageur Trail, or stretch your legs strolling the Veterans' Bridge, a recreation bridge that spans the Mississagi River.
Last updated: September 18, 2023