Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park offers a pristine natural landscape in Ontario, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude among lakes and forests.

89,000
Acres Protected
30
Miles of Trails
Approximately 40,000
Annual Visitors
1997
Year Established

About Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
 

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is one of Ontario's largest provincial parks and a significant natural haven that offers an expansive wilderness experience. The park encompasses a vast network of lakes, rivers, and forested areas, providing a diverse range of ecosystems. Home to iconic Canadian Shield landscapes, the park features granite outcrops, dense coniferous forests, and several water bodies that are vital for the region's flora and fauna. Established in 1997, it gained full operational status in 2003. The park is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking, with many interconnected waterways allowing for a serene paddling experience. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy several trails that offer varying degrees of difficulty, taking visitors through the park's scenic vistas and providing opportunities for wildlife observation, including birds, moose, and deer. The history of the park is interwoven with indigenous heritage, with many areas having been traditional lands for First Nations communities.

Highlights

Highlight

The interconnected chain of lakes and rivers perfect for paddling

Highlight

Rich wildlife habitat offering sightings of moose and white-tailed deer

Highlight

The unique rock formations and granite outcrops typical of the Canadian Shield

Highlight

Serene backcountry campsites accessible only by canoe or hike

Notable Natural Features

Anstruther Lake

A popular spot known for its beautiful waters and accessible campsites, perfect for canoeing.

Stoney Lake

Offers scenic views and excellent opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Wolf Lake

A tranquil and remote location ideal for solitude and wilderness camping.