Situated on the shores of Georgian Bay with over 2,900 hectares of forested land, Awenda Provincial Park is an immersion in natural diversity. There are over 30 kilometers of trails to explore with real sandy beaches to relax on, serene waters of Kettle’s Lake to canoe over and unique panoramas to see. If you’re more of a winter park user and are looking for more of an outdoor challenge, Awenda is open for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. You may even be able to spot deer, fox, moose or coyotes!
T R A I L S
Beaver Pond Trail (1 km): The mostly-boardwalk trail features glimpses of the dominant Nipissing bluff. The area provides a lot of opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
Nipissing Trail (1 km): This moderately difficult trail can be finished in half an hour but will allow you to walk along The Nipissing Bluff. It became a raised beach that is thought to be about 5,500 years old. Go down the easy 155 step staircase and it will lead you 32 meters down through the forest canopy.
Robitaille Homestead Trail (3 km): Follow along this simple, three-hour trail, past an abandoned farm from the early 1900s. On this path, you will also explore the ancient dunes which are estimated to be 11,500 years old. These dunes are extremely fragile, so be sure not to stand on the edge or climb down the bluff to allow plants to re-grow.
Brûlé Trail (4 km): Take this plesant upland trail and surround yourself in a mixed deciduous forest. It should only take about an hour and a half to complete.
Beach Trail (4 km): This trail is on the easier side but still takes about an hour and a half to complete. The pathway takes you along the shoreline of Georgian Bay, where you can spot Giant’s Tomb Island on a clear day.
Wendat Trail (5 km): Starting on Kettle’s Lake, this looped trail takes two hours to complete. There, you will likely catch a glimpse of Red-Winged Blackbirds and Great Blue Herons that roam the area. As a bonus, you’ll also pass by the foundations of a never-finished farmstead house and barn.
Bluff Trail (13 km): This is the longest trail but you will be rewarded by stunning views of Georgian Bay and experience the low wetlands. It will take you about three and a half hours to complete. The path is circular and can be found at a number of locations within the park. It is an especially stunning trail during late autumn when the leaves are at their peak.
Location: Tiny, Ontario
Distance from Toronto: 2 hr 10 min
Dog-Friendly: Yes (separate dog beach)
Parking: Yes
Admission Cost: Check Here
Time of Year: All Seasons
Hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm for day use
Trail Difficulty: Very Easy
Washroom Facilities: Yes
Swimming: Yes (Large Sandy Beaches)
Contact: (705) 549-2231
Extra Information:
- There are picnic tables but bring a big blanket just to be safe
- Bring a bathing suit if it’s warm out!
Disclaimer: All information and prices are accurate as of the time of the posting. All opinions expressed are completely my own. This post is not sponsored.
*All images are copyrighted by Julia Melcher (@adventureontario) or credited to their owners. Please do not use or re-post without written consent and provide credit where applicable