Hiking Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park: trails, map and practical info

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

4.5 Appreciated by 28 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 19/06/2026
Elevation
100 ft

Explore the historic Mattawa River corridor in Ontario's Algonquin region through the Etienne Trail system, offering loops from 5 to 17 kilometers. This 100m elevation adventure winds through classic Canadian Shield terrain where French explorer Samuel de Champlain once traveled.

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Ready to explore Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park is located near Mattawa in Ontario's Algonquin region, within the larger Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka, and Parry Sound area. The park protects over 2,500 hectares of Canadian Shield wilderness along the historic Mattawa River. Named after the French explorer who paddled these very waters in the early 1600s, the park carries a sense of place that goes well beyond the trails themselves.

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 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
6905 Hwy 17 E, Mattawa, Ontario P0H 1V0, Canada
GPS coordinates
46.2839009, -78.8544047
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The samuel de champlain provincial park is located in Ontario. To get to the start of the trails, take Highway 401 to exit 727 and follow Highway 2 north for about 9 km. The park entrance will be on your left.

When?

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

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
46.2839009, -78.8544047
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.5
6 Reviews
D
David
Nov 8, 2025
Beautiful natural setting but the trails need better maintenance. We hiked the Geology Loop which was marked as 5km but turned out to be closer to 7km. The viewpoints are becoming overgrown and some sections of trail are being reclaimed by nature. The rocky terrain with roots and steep hills made for a challenging hike. Despite these issues, the scenic lookouts over the river were worth the effort. Park has potential but needs more investment.
L
Lisa
Oct 12, 2025
Visited during fall colors and the scenery was breathtaking. The Nature Loop is an 8km moderate hike with some steep sections but rewards you with beautiful forest views. Park offers excellent educational programming and the staff are passionate about sharing local history. Swimming area near the campsites is perfect for cooling off after hiking. Only complaint is the road into the park needs repair - very bumpy and rough for RVs. Overall a wonderful outdoor experience.
M
Marcus
Sep 15, 2025
Spent a wonderful weekend exploring the hiking trails here. The History Loop was particularly impressive with its rugged terrain and scenic lookouts over the Mattawa River. The trail is well-marked but definitely challenging with steep sections - proper hiking boots are essential. The park staff were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, making our visit educational as well as enjoyable. Only downside was the expensive firewood at $7.75 per bundle.
J
Jennifer
Aug 3, 2025
Great family destination with something for everyone. The Kag Trail is a perfect short but challenging hike through diverse ecosystems including red pine forest and beaver ponds. Kids loved the educational programs and the replica voyageur canoe experience. The park's historical significance adds an interesting cultural element. Canoe rentals are a bit pricey but the equipment is in excellent condition. Mosquitoes can be intense during summer months so come prepared with repellent.
S
Sarah
Jul 22, 2025
This park exceeded all expectations! The campground facilities are spotless - some of the cleanest washrooms and showers I've seen in any provincial park. We loved the variety of activities available, from canoeing on Moore Lake to the free fishing equipment program. The kids had a blast tubing down the river and spotting wildlife. The night sky here is absolutely spectacular with minimal light pollution. Definitely planning a return visit.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
100.00
No
No
To reach Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, take Highway 401 to exit 727 and follow Highway 2 north for about 9 km. The park entrance will be on your left.
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Update : June 2026