Highland Backpacking Trail - Unorganized South Nipissing District, ON

Stephanie M.

I have been here in all seasons and it is always beautiful. There is enough elevation to make it a fun hike and there are beautiful views. It is part of a larger system and joins several other trails so you can make it as long (several days) or as short (out and back) as you like.

Anthony L.

Great hike to challenge yourself without overdoing it. Lots of elevation changes in the Northern section to East Provoking Lake with a great look-out spot. Some very good campsites to choose from if you book in advance. All right next to the lake.

Andrew M.

A friend and I did the entire loop (>40km/>27mi) on a rainy day with scattered storms. It took around 12 hours, including breaks.

The prettiest parts are on the river at the back end of the trail, and around provoking lake. If you just want the views, stick to the provoking lake loop! The trail is well marked and can be done without offline maps.

It is a hard hike for 1 day, but should be moderate to easy if you spread it across multiple days. There are a few short rock scrambles, but they are more fun than they are intimidating.

Essential equipment includes: 6 or more liters of water; mosquito nets (head covering), mosquito repellant, extra socks, band-aids (for blisters), lots of rice crispy treats.

Reid M.

Very, very nice trail - a bunch of different lengths available (check AllTrails), plus campgrounds for backpacking. One of the more difficult hikes in Algonquin for sure so be prepared, but definitely worth it!

Braeden R.

We did the first loop March 2024. It’s a moderate trail, some parts were extremely icy so cleats are recommended to those planning winter/spring hikes. Amazing views and lots of wildlife tracks.

Daniel H.

Two loops 19 km and 35 km. I did the 35 km + wandered around some of the campsites and checked out the lookout at the top of Starling lake with a slight view of Lake of two Rivers and it came in at 37.2 km with 1651 m of elevation gain

I suggest doing this in 2 or 3 days. Bring a pair of fast drying shoes or waterproof boots as this loop is very wet! Or do this in the middle of a dry summer.

Rohak B.

Not a fun hike at all. Great for endurance. Maybe trail running too. No views the whole way up until the campsite at the lake. Taking a dip was the most relaxing part. Also made the mistake of going in July when the mosquitos are in large amounts. Bugs were relentless.

T B.

EDIT: Recently, Algonquin changed the rules for backcountry camping. You will get the site you booked online. I have change my review to reflect that.

I've been to this trail twice now and only around Provoking Lake. It is not for the light hearted beginner unless you're ready for a challenge. If you are only going for the day, start your hike in the morning so that you have enough daylight to complete.
I've stayed at both west and east, and I prefer east but there are some great sites on the west if you can get them.
Some of the sites are not close to the trail - you can expect to have this happen on the West side. Some sites are 500m-1km away from the trail itself.
On the trail you really should have proper hiking boots because it's not an easy one and if it rains at all, it is dangerous. You can use the bike trails as shortcuts - not really short in distance but are fully flat if your feet hurt. The portage trail is a bit easier to use but it connects to the bike trail so you'll have to decide if you'd rather go thru the rugged nature or the flat but longer distance trails. Also, the map shows you distance and NOT terrain so expect to hike longer than what the map says. Example, let's say the map says 1.2km between a checkpoint, well depending how rugged that area is, you can easily add a km to your route.
Aside from that, if you have time and energy, go from one site to another and thoroughly look at them to see how they will work for you for future trips. Some of the photos of the sites are useless, so it's hard to determine if it would be a great site. All the sites on the East side have good access to the water.
I think the one I stayed at last, was 602 Provoking East and at first it was ok, but once I looked thru it more, other areas made it more enjoyable. It has good water access for both swimming and pumping water thru the trees on the right. Some nice views and plenty of space for 2 tents that wouldn't be over roots or on a slant.
Bear Safety: Oh yes - there are bears!!! On the first trip I only encountered feces which btw are the size of logs but on the second trip there was a mama with two cubs; they didn't see me so I quietly turned around and made my trek back to the car thru a different route (portage/bike trail.) I always carry bear spray and a bear bell, and even though I've never had a scary encounter with any wildlife, I would encourage everyone to read about wildlife safety when camping.
All-in-all, it is one of my favourite parks to go to and I would encourage everyone - including beginners. Just be ready with proper gear, practice safety and you'll have a great time!