Western Uplands Backpacking Trail Inner loop (30km)

Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

Ontario

Unorganized South Nipissing

Western Uplands Backpacking Trail Inner loop (30km)

Hard

hikers

Western Uplands Backpacking Trail Inner loop (30km)

09:05

32.3km

640m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Last updated: July 27, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Algonquin Provincial Park

Waypoints

Start point

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1.13 km

Western Uplands Backpacking Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

One of Algonquin Provincial Park's premier backpacking routes, the Western Uplands Trail leads through a rugged landscape of forests, lakes, wetlands, and rocky ridges. The trail network offers several loop options ranging from overnight trips to multi-day adventures, with backcountry campsites scattered along remote lakes. Expect a more challenging experience than Algonquin's day-hiking trails, with frequent elevation changes and long stretches of true wilderness between access points.

Tip by

2.32 km

Stream in Algonquin Provincial Park

Highlight • River

This stream joins with Maple Leaf Creek (which you cross just west of here along the trail) and empties into the Oxtongue River. If you were to float three kilometres downstream, you'd end up at some backcountry campsites along the Oxtongue that are only accessible via waterway.

Tip by

28.1 km

Guskewau Lake

Highlight • Lake

Guskewau Lake is a peaceful backcountry lake nestled right along the Western Uplands Backpacking Trail. Located roughly four kilometres from the main trailhead, it’s a picturesque and popular spot with day hikers and a first overnight stop for backpackers heading out on a longer trek. The lake water is clear, and the surrounding forest is dense, with secluded backcountry campsites complete with tent spaces and fire pits.

Tip by

32.3 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

32.2 km

125 m

Surfaces

19.6 km

12.6 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (540 m)

Lowest point (410 m)

Weather

Thursday 22 October

13°C

1°C

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Comments

July 29, 2024,Western Uplands (35 km loop) 🫎

Today was the day, I was finally able to see a moose (Moose) in the wild.
The encounter (at km 30.5) was unfortunately very brief and there wasn't enough time for a photo.
The moose was just as surprised by the encounter as I was and then took off "at a gallop". But that is still very impressive when a …

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