Highland Backpacking Trail

Highland Backpacking Trail is a two-loop multi-day hike in Algonquin Provincial Park that’s built around camping by lakes. The short loop is about 19 km around Provoking Lake; the long loop is about 35 km and continues on to Harness Lake and Head Lake before returning to the start.

Most parties base out of the Mew Lake area on Highway 60. The route begins at a parking lot off Highway 60 associated with Mew Lake, and from there you work your way toward Provoking Lake as the first major navigation waypoint.

The hike crosses rugged, frequently up-and-down terrain with rocky footing and exposed roots, plus a number of wet crossings/stream sections. You’ll be dealing with steep sections that are short but noticeable, which is why the trail is generally described as moderate to difficult rather than an easy walk.

Route structure follows the “figure-8” idea: Loop 1 stays tied to Provoking Lake, while Loop 2 branches from the Loop 1/Loop 2 decision and then carries you past Harness and Head before rejoining on the west side of Provoking Lake.

Navigation is mostly handled by regular tree markers and posted maps at important intersections. Even so, route choice matters—one fork early on sets whether you hike the clockwise or counterclockwise pattern, and other splits determine which lakes you’ll camp at.

Seasonally, late spring through autumn is the typical window, with fall being a common time to be on the trail. Expect the trail to be muddy and buggy at times (especially in shoulder season or wetter periods), and bring gear that can handle soaking rain days.

More information: A Guide for Hiking the Highland Backpacking Trail in Algonquin, Complete Guide to Hiking the Highland Backpacking Trail in ..., Hiking the Highland Backpacking Trail - Em Outdoors