Track and Tower Trail

Track and Tower Trail is an 8.3 km loop in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, built around the old railway bed and a climb to a former “Skyfire Tower” site. Expect a moderately challenging hike profile with a usable lookout payoff rather than a long, sustained climb.

Plan on roughly 3–4 hours for the full loop. The trail’s character mixes rugged forest footing with uneven ground, plus a short stair climb to the lookout area.

A major theme along the route is railway history: you’ll hike portions of the former Ottawa, Arnprior, and Parry Sound Railway alignment, with remnants of rail structures and bridge remains along the way.

The lookout is the key vertical feature. The climb to the tower site is described as 125 stairs, and it’s the spot aimed at for panoramic views over the Cache Lake area.

The loop also passes through spots tied to the railway corridor and water features near the route—Cache Lake is encountered early in the hike and forms part of the lookout’s vista.

For gear and footing, prioritize sturdy hiking boots: the route is repeatedly described as rocky and rooted, which matters on uneven surfaces that can slow experienced hikers.

Access is from Highway 60 at km 25 within the park. Entry requires a daily vehicle permit for vehicles, and parking is at/near the trailhead area by that highway marker.

Wildlife is a real part of the experience in this section of Algonquin—moose, black bears, and Spruce Grouse are noted for the habitat transition around the route.

More information: Track & Tower Trail - All You SHOULD Know Before Going ..., TRACK & TOWER TRAIL - All You Need to Know ... - Tripadvisor