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

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

4.7 Appreciated by 14 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 23/06/2026
Elevation
579 ft
Duration
2h00

Explore 7.5 km through Algonquin Park's mixed forests where railway heritage meets wilderness. This moderate loop with 275 m elevation gain takes 2 to 3 hours and rewards hikers with panoramic Cache Lake views from a scenic lookout—plus interpretive signs revealing the region's logging industry past.

Recommended for :

Ready to explore Track and Tower Trail? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"section_to_update": "Most hikers complete the loop in around two hours at a steady pace, though building in extra time for the lookout and the interpretive stops makes for a more satisfying experience overall.",
"updated_text": "Most hikers complete the loop in around two hours at a steady pace, though actual distances vary (hikers have tracked up to 9 km depending on route variation), and building in extra time for the lookout and the interpretive stops makes for a more satisfying experience overall."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
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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
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USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Track and Tower Trail, Unorganized South Nipissing District, ON K0J 2M0, Canada
GPS coordinates
45.5509024, -78.5708499
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The track and tower trail is located in the town of Perth, Ontario. To get to the start of the trails, take Highway 7 west to Perth. Once in Perth, take County Road 10 north until you reach the 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)
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
45.5509024, -78.5708499
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.7
7 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 15, 2025
This trail delivers a solid workout with meaningful elevation gain that keeps your heart pumping throughout the hike. The tower at the summit provides stunning panoramic views across the Almaguin Highlands, making the effort worthwhile. Trail markings are clear and the path is well-maintained, though be prepared for paid access fees before starting your adventure.
J
Jennifer
Aug 22, 2025
A moderate hike that's perfect for a half-day outing when you want some physical challenge without overdoing it. The ascent is steady and rewarding, culminating at a tower with excellent views of the surrounding region. Note that parking requires payment, and the trail isn't suitable for dogs, but it remains family-friendly for hikers of various abilities.
D
David
Jun 10, 2025
The elevation gain provides a genuine cardiovascular challenge that feels accomplishing without being overly demanding. Access from County Road 10 is straightforward and convenient, and the tower views at the end justify the climb. While fees apply for both parking and trail access, the well-marked path and good maintenance make this a worthwhile investment for a quality outdoor experience.
R
Robert
Sep 14, 2024
A respectable hiking option with consistent elevation that provides good physical exertion over the course of the outing. The tower views are genuinely impressive and make the climb feel worthwhile. Accessibility is straightforward via Highway 7, though visitors should budget for parking and entry fees before planning their visit.
WW
Weekend Warrior
Feb 20, 2024
Decent trail with good elevation gain of 275m that provides a solid workout. Located conveniently off Highway 7 in Perth, though the paid parking and access fees add to the cost. The tower destination is the main highlight, offering rewarding views after the climb. Trail conditions were good, but would recommend checking ahead for seasonal accessibility and current fees.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
579.00 m
2h00
No
No
The Track and Tower Trail takes approximately 2h00 to complete. This timeframe assumes a moderate hiking pace and may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The Track and Tower Trail features 275 m of elevation gain and is open from sunrise to sunset. Be sure to arrive early enough to complete your hike before sunset, and verify current conditions with the park before your visit.
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Update : June 2026