This one’s for all the explorers out there. Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater is a breathtaking wilderness class park in Ontario, and it’s home to the highest point in the whole province.
This park is comprised of “rugged topography, clear lakes, stunning waterfalls, and rushing rivers,” says Ontario Parks.
Ontario may not be a mountainous province, but if you’re looking for soaring summits to conquer, this is the place to do it.
Ancient Precambrian bedrock forms towering domes with expansive views that rival the rocky mountains.
The highest of these summits is Ishpatina Ridge, which is actually the highest point in all of Ontario.
This is a lengthy backcountry trek and it’s no easy feat, but it’s safe to say that you’ll be rewarded with epic views from the top.
According to All Trails, the hike is just over 30 km out and back, and it takes about nine and a half hours to complete.
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Getting there is an adventure in itself, and hikers who have conquered the summit say that the experience is incredible but there are some challenges along the way — we’re talking horseflies, black flies, and mosquitoes.
If you’re well-equipped and up for the challenge, you will get to enjoy panoramic views at an elevation of 693 metres.
That’s as high up as you can get in Ontario – yep, it’s even taller than the CN Tower, which is 553 metres tall.
There is an old fire tower at the top of the summit too with views as far as the eye can see.
Visitors who would prefer to stay at ground level will be treated to spectacular scenery at Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater.
That includes famous old-growth White and Red pine forests, a 2,400-km canoeing network with ancient Indigenous portaging routes that date back 10,000 years.
Between the jaw-dropping nature, the towering summits, and the rich history, this is truly the crown jewel of Ontario’s wilderness.
Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park
When: Open until October 22nd, 2023
Where: 24 Finlayson Park Road, Temagami
