Willow Lake

The Willow Lake – Mirror Pool loop from Mission Woods offers a dynamic jogging experience, blending easy, flat paths with more rugged, adventurous sections. You'll traverse the mellow western shore, enjoying wide, grassy expanses and views of Willow Lake, before encountering the eastern side's unique granite dells. Here, you'll navigate over impressive boulders and through small hidden canyons, some containing the 'reflective pools' that give the trail its name, making for a truly varied workout.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) jogging route, with 363 feet (111 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. While the western side is suitable for all, the eastern shore involves some scrambling, so come prepared for technical terrain. Checking trail conditions, especially after rain, is wise due to potential muddy sections, and bringing water is always a good idea for this engaging loop.

Willow Lake is renowned for its striking granite rock formations, often mirrored in the water, and is designated an Important Bird Area, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching. The trail's dual personality, offering both a relaxed and a more challenging experience, makes it a standout option for joggers seeking diverse scenery and a bit of adventure near Mission Woods.