Algonquin in a Day

...a shortened November day for that matter.

Plans had only been decided the night before and had not actually been solidified until the vehicle had left the driveway. We knew we wanted to go somewhere to get away from the daily expectations of life. We had two ideas in mind for a day of hiking, the Haliburton Highlands and Algonquin P.P. With reports of Algonquin having snow accumulated, it made for an easy choice, we would head there. Looking at the time and realizing we had a 2+ hour drive ahead of us from Cavan Ontario, we had to make an "on the run" itinerary for when we arrived. Being the month of November the days have grown shorter so time would be working against us today as our weekend was coming to an end.

We arrived at the East gate of Algonquin P.P. at around noon and stopped for permits and a washroom break. I would be joined by my Wife and youngest Son "Hiker" for this day of hiking and taking in the Winter landscapes that made for a fresh change in the park.

Having a 3yr old in tow, our trail selection had to cater to his capabilities and also keep his attention, so we decided our first stop would be the logging museum. Although the indoor facilities were closed the trail was open and we could still visit all the outdoor exhibits along the way. This was a very good choice as the reaction and excitement from Hiker warmed my heart. He spent the next hour and a half asking questions and exploring the exhibits and trail. So parents, if you are taking young ones to the park this is a must.

Next would be a stop at Opeongo Lake. I can never drive highway 60 without making a detour to this lake. You could say it's a magnet for me, whether it is visiting the outfitters or buying snacks, it is a beautiful lake setting and a place I like to go. Paddling to one of it's backcountry sites is on my "to do" list. This day however, the plan was to have a picnic lunch at the vehicle by the lake seeing as the outfitters was closed for the season. This was another activity that Hiker was thrilled about. We had lunch in the vehicle out of the chilling wind, in the parking lot over looking the snow falling on the lake. Thoughts of returning for a Summer/Fall paddle began to surface while eating lunch. We leave the Lake knowing it won't be for long and continue down the highway to the Visitors Center.

Like Lake Opeongo, for me, this is a must stop destination. It offers history of the park right up to modern times. Hiker loved the wildlife exhibits and the talking logger exhibit. Before leaving we grabbed some hot chocolates and walked out the boardwalk to the newer fire tower lookout which was a first for even myself who has been to the park numerous times.
The daylight was starting to come to an end but we estimated we could fit in one more shorter hike. The hike we had in mind was the "Lookout" trail. Around 2km in length it would be short enough to complete in time and had a lookout that would be interesting for the boy. Having completed the trail a couple times before, I was aware it had steep inclines in areas. I knew this would tire out my Son so I hoisted him on my shoulders during these sections to avoid tiring him out half way through the hike. we all enjoyed the snowy view from the Lookout and made sure to take pictures (featured below). We returned to the vehicle well before dark and began to work our way down the highway and out of the West gate of the park. This did not happen however without plans of several returns and destinations for the future, we are an outdoor family and knew we would be visiting soon. So until our next visit, thank you for the memories Algonquin:)

Until next time, adventure awaits!

Johnny- Two4adventure