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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
255 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Track and Tower Trail

Track and Tower Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Hiking the Track and Tower Trail is a great adventure in Algonquin Provincial Park that showcases the natural beauty and diverse wildlife in the area. While out on the trail, you will hike through the beautiful woodland landscape and take in stunning views of waterfalls, powerful rivers, and scenic lakes, with a good chance of spotting the blackbears and moose that inhabit the area. This route isn’t overly difficult, yet it still features a good variety of terrain, making it a suitable adventure for beginner and experienced hikers alike.

Route Description for Track and Tower Trail

While the terrain on the Track and Tower Trail isn’t overly difficult, there are some areas of uphill climbing and stretches of trail that can be bogged down with mud. Be sure to wear proper hiking boots with good ankle support to better traverse any rough portions of the trail. As is the case in many parts of Ontario during the summer, bugs like mosquitoes and black flies can be found in high numbers along the trail. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray and protective clothing to prevent being bitten.

As previously mentioned, the terrain along the Track and Tower Trail isn’t overly difficult; however, it does feature a few tough parts that will make the route suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners that are looking for a bit of a challenge. While out on this hike, you will pass through dense stretches of woodland terrain and experience awesome highlights that include waterfalls, a river crossing, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding lakes. For the relatively low amount of effort required, the Track and Tower Trail will provide an unforgettable experience.

Setting out from the roadside parking area, take the trail on the right and follow it into the dense cover of the forest, where you will cross over a small stream after 215m. Continue on and follow the trail as it turns to the south, skirting around the edge of a marshy area to eventually arrive at the shores of Cache Lake. After reaching the lake, the trail will turn to the east and follow along the edge of the water for 1.6 km, taking you to a viewpoint overlooking a beautiful cascading waterfall.

Continue along the path as it crosses over the Madawaska River and begins to climb up the hillside toward the viewpoint overlooking Cache Lake. At this forested lookout, you will have sweeping views of the vast forests and lakes that make up Algonquin Park. After taking in the sights, head back downhill until you arrive at a fork in the path.

If you want to return to the car park along the same route, take the trail on the left to cross back over the river and make your way past the falls. If you are looking for a change in scenery, head to the right to continue down the hillside to cross the Madawaska River at a different point. From here, you will keep left along the trail for 1.0 km, climbing gently uphill through the forest until you arrive at the shores of Grant Lake. Enjoy the scenic views across the water and continue along the forested trail to the northwest for another 1.9 km, where you will arrive back at the car park having completed the Track and Tower Trail.

Insider Hints for Track and Tower Trail

  • Pack bug spray, as mosquitoes can be quite bad on this hike.
  • Proper hiking boots with good ankle support (ideally water-resistant) are recommended for this adventure.
  • Grab a brochure at the beginning of the trail if you want to learn more about the surrounding area.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, black bears, and deer.

Getting to the Track and Tower Trail Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Track and Tower Trail from the west gate of Algonquin Provincial Park, make your way to the northeast for 15.7mi along ON-60E, where you will find the parking lot on the right side of the road.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    March-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Track and Tower Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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