I’ve spent the past 3 seasons exploring every trail and as much of Killarney Provincial Park as possible. These spectacular trails never get old, and never fail to leave me in awe of their stunning views. The trails in the Park vary in distance, difficulty and scenery, but each one can offer you an amazing hiking experience. There is nothing quite like the clear, sparkling lakes surrounded by the white quartzite of the La Cloche Mountain Range.

Plan on visiting Killarney this season? These are the top 5 day hikes I recommend doing:

1. The Crack

Distance: 6 km
Time to hike: 4 hours
Difficulty: Difficult

There’s a reason that the ‘Crack’ has become the most famous trail in Killarney Provincial Park. It’s a bit of a rugged climb and you will be pouring sweat once you get to the top, but the view is beyond worth it. Catch panoramic views of Killarney and O.S.A lake and the stunning La Cloche Mountains surrounding them. I recommend wearing study hiking boots, bringing lots of extra water and some snacks for the top!

2. Silver Peak
Distance: 3 km Paddle, 4 km hike one way
Time to hike: 5 hours + 45 minute paddle there (plan for a full day)
Difficulty: Difficult 

Silver Peak stands at the highest elevation in Killarney Provincial Park so the view at the top allows you to see complete 360 views of the Park, Georgian Bay, Sudbury, and Manitoulin Island in the distance. To access the trail you need to canoe out on Bell Lake to the access point which connects to the La Cloche Silhouette Trail. Make sure you pay attention to trail markers and bring a backcountry map of the Park with you. The trail makes a turn and change in marker colour (blue to red) which leads you straight up to the peak, and if you don’t pay attention to the turn you will end up hiking right past it. I recommend bringing lots of extra water and a lunch for the top, because the hike is strenuous and you will want to take your time soaking in this awe-inspiring view.


3. Chikanishing Trail

Distance: 3 km
Time to hike: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Out of all the trails in Killarney, I’ve done this one the most. It’s the most easy going of the trails and is the perfect day hike when you’re not feeling like climbing some peaks. The first part of the trail takes you along colourful rocks with views of sweeping white pines and Georgian Bay. On the way back, cool down as the trail takes you through the woods and on little wooden boardwalks. Catch glimpses of wild flowers and neat plants along the way, and follow along with interpretive panels about the history of Killarney. I recommend sturdy hiking boots, lots of water, and a bathing suit if you’re feeling like a swim, because the trail takes you to some great swimming spots on Georgian Bay around the halfway point.

4. Granite Ridge

Distance: 2 km
Time to hike: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate

A perfect hike if you’re looking for stunning views of the Park, and a shorter, less challenging climb than the Crack or Silver Peak. Hike through the forest, old fields, and then make your way up the rocks to the top. This is my favourite hike to catch the sunset, as you can get back quickly to the start of the trail head before it gets dark (but bring a head lamp just in case). Sturdy hiking shoes and water recommended.

5. Lake of the Woods Trail

Distance: 3.5 km
Time to hike: 3 hours
Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Lake of the woods takes you through the woods, climbing up and down ridges and catching glimpses of the lake below. This is one of my favourite hikes to do in the fall time as the trail is surrounded by deciduous trees so the colours are stunning. To access the trail you have to go for a bit of a drive, as the access point is located down Bell Lake Road (about a 30 minute drive from the Main Office). I recommend good hiking shoes, water, snacks, and good friends to enjoy the views with.

I hope this helps you in planning your visit to Killarney Provincial Park visit their site for more information on Park fees and Park rules and regulations.

What’s your favourite hike in Killarney? Comment below!

Happy Trails!