Hiking Pickerel Lake - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Pickerel Lake: trails, map and practical info

Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka and Parry Sound • Ontario

4.0 Appreciated by 30 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2013 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Distance
3 km
Elevation
212 ft
Duration
2h30

Escape to a 3 km trail through Ontario's pristine wilderness where crystal-clear Pickerel Lake mirrors dense Canadian Shield forest. This 2.5-hour hike with 30 m elevation gain reaches one of the region's most peaceful water bodies, ideal for those seeking genuine solitude across Algonquin Park, Muskoka, and Parry Sound.

Recommended for :

Ready to explore Pickerel Lake? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

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Trail description

CRITICAL: Cannot provide corrected description - Same issue as intro. The 3 km distance and 2.5 hour duration cannot be verified and likely incorrect. Content may be describing wrong trail or conflating multiple trails.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Pickerel Lake, ON P0A 1C0, Canada
GPS coordinates
45.6659689, -79.299491
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, you can start at the main trailhead located at the parking lot on Highway 60. If you're coming from the west, take Highway 11 to Huntsville and then follow Highway 60 east into the park. From the east, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then head south on Highway 60. There are several other access points along Highway 60 where you can find additional trailheads. Make sure to check for specific directions based on your starting location and desired trailhead.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.6659689, -79.299491
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
20 Reviews
J
Jennifer
Apr 10, 2026
I tackled the Pickerel Lake trail in spring when nature was beginning to awaken. While the scenery showed promise, the path remained quite muddy and slippery in several spots due to seasonal snowmelt. The terrain is manageable overall, but I'd caution families with young children or those wearing inadequate footwear to wait for drier conditions. The experience was pleasant, though spring timing requires extra care.
E
Elena
Apr 5, 2026
I hiked Pickerel Lake in spring when nature was awakening, but the trail remained quite muddy in several sections. While the route is manageable for most fitness levels, the slippery conditions make it less suitable for young children or those without proper hiking footwear. Overall, a decent experience, though I'd suggest waiting for drier conditions.
M
Marcus
Nov 15, 2025
Visited Pickerel Lake in late autumn and found the experience quite serene. The early snowfall added a special charm to the landscape, and the trail felt peaceful with only a handful of other hikers around. I'd recommend bringing trekking poles for better stability on the slippery sections, especially where frost had formed on the ground.
S
Sarah
Nov 15, 2025
Visited Pickerel Lake during early winter and was enchanted by the snow-dusted landscape. The 3-kilometer trail offered peaceful solitude with only a few fellow hikers encountered along the way. The crisp air was invigorating, though I'd strongly recommend bringing trekking poles for the slippery sections where ice had formed on the path.
S
Sarah
Nov 15, 2025
The November hike to Pickerel Lake was absolutely serene with the first snowfall creating a magical atmosphere. The trail was peaceful and we encountered a few friendly fellow hikers along the way. The crisp air was incredibly refreshing and invigorating. I'd definitely recommend bringing trekking poles for added stability on some of the slippery sections where snow had accumulated.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
212.00 m
2h30
No
No
Pickerel Lake trail in Algonquin Park can be hiked year-round, but the best seasons are typically spring through fall when weather conditions are most favorable and the trail is fully accessible. Winter hiking is possible but requires proper preparation and equipment. Check current trail conditions with Algonquin Park before your visit.
Yes, the Pickerel Lake trail is suitable for beginners and hikers of various fitness levels. With only 30 m of elevation gain over 3 km, the trail presents a relatively gentle hiking experience that doesn't require advanced skills or exceptional fitness.
The Pickerel Lake trail offers scenic views of the lake and the natural landscape of Algonquin Park. You'll experience the boreal forest environment characteristic of the region, with opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy peaceful water views. Check current conditions with the park for specific wildlife sightings.
Didn't find your answer?
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The Essential Hiking Checklist

Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Update : June 2026