Day Trips
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Bon Echo Park

We are fortunate to have several hiking trails on the lake at Bon Echo Park. Below are short descriptions. See the Bon Echo Park website for up to date information.

Abes and Essens Lake Trail – 3 interconnecting looped trails: Clutes 3.5 km (1.5 hours); Essens Lake 9.6 km (4 hours) and Abes 17 km (7 hours) moderate to difficult.
Some sections offer panoramic views that are particularly spectacular in fall. Hike for a day or camp at one of the five campsites along the trail (campsite reservations are required).

Bon Echo Creek Trail: 1 km (40 minutes), linear, easy
Take a leisurely walk along the Bon Echo Creek.

Please note that this trail is historically closed in the spring and early summer due to wet trail conditions.

Cliff Top Trail – 1.5 km (1 hour), linear, moderate to difficult
This trail is only accessible by water. A ferry service (fees apply) will take you to the start of the trail. Check with park staff as to current ferry schedule. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available. Stairs and a pathway take hikers to the top of Mazinaw Rock to three observation decks overlooking the lake.

High Pines Trail - 1.7 km (1 hour), loop, moderate 
Hikers pass a variety of forest and wetland communities including tall pines, groves of hemlock and quiet forest ponds.

Shield Trail - 4.8 km (2 hours), loop, moderate 
Follow a section of the old Addington Road as it crosses the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield where you will see hardwood forests, cedar lowlands and a beaver swamp.

Pet Exercise Trail – 1.4 km (1 hour), loop, easy
Let your furry friend off-leash on this designated pet exercise trail.