The 14 Best Things to Do in South Algonquin Year Round
- Samantha Terry
- Apr 5
- 6 min read
Hello, and welcome to the humble, hidden gem that is South Algonquin township - deep in Ontario’s hinterland.
Whether you're looking for places to stay, or some new and exciting workshops and nature-based experiences, you can find something for everyone in South Algonquin.
We're a quiet, off-the-grid expanse of serene wilderness that makes for the ideal trip when you plan a vacation on your own or with a group. We're tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life so you can drive in and tune out.
We've got the same gorgeous landscapes as the popular "cottage country" destinations -- only more affordable.
Hidden along the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park at the southernmost tip of the Nipissing District, South Algonquin has the kind of "untouched wilderness" vibe you've been craving.
Book your Canadian staycation here - starting with our top 14 best things to do in South Algonquin through the year:
Year-round activities in South Algonquin
1. Stargazing
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer, or a first-time stargazer, the night sky in South Algonquin offers some of the greatest “light shows” you can experience. Whether you’re hoping to catch a shooting star, a meteor shower or even a glimpse of the milky way or an awe inspiring aurora, there are many safe public and secret viewing locations in South Algonquin, and next to no light pollution to interfere with your views!
Some of the best spots for stargazing are: Madawaska Park and the Madawaska Trestle Bridge, Tom & Mick Murray Park Beach, Rapid Lake Trestle Bridge in Whitney, and Galeairy Beach. All of these locations give you great sky views and the benefit of all the stars reflecting in the water. In spring, summer and fall, you can also visit Four Corners Algonquin, a fully AODA accessible campground in South Algonquin.
Not only are they investing in night sky guided tour opportunities, they host online night sky weather forecasts for both Whitney and Madawaska allowing you to see the night sky weather up to 2 days in advance!
2. Multi-use trail systems
All year long you have access to dozens of kilometres of trails that lead through South Algonquin from one end to the other. Whether you’re on foot, bicycle, ATV, skis, snowshoes or a snowmobile, there are trails for you to cruise along. Watch for improvements to these trails coming soon, as the South Algonquin Business Alliance partners with the Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance to turn these into multi-use, multi-season outdoor sport and recreation opportunities. More info about these trails can be found at:
We also encourage people to check out crowd-sourced trail information and reviews like those found at Alltrails.com.
3. Landscape lookouts
No matter the time of year, when you travel along our trails, there will be sights to see. Experience the vivid colours of fall at the Whitney Dam or the cotton candy sunsets at any of our beautiful beaches.
Pause to watch the Madawaska River flowing from its headwaters - right where the river (and story!) begins. Or paddle on top of it by canoe or kayak. You can paddle right up to some of our waterfalls! Stop to picnic along the Bear Lake/Burnetts/Spectacle Lake trail system, and keep your cameras ready to capture some of those breathtaking moments you can only experience in our township.
Or if you’re spending the day on the water, canoe into Algonquin Park from Access point #13 in the village of Whitney. Along the way, visit the sandy beach at Farm Bay, or the waterfall at Rock Lake Dam.
4. Fishing
Carve a hole in the ice beneath crisp blue skies or wait until the waters are warm and flowing.
No matter when you drop your line, there will be fish waiting to be caught. Take a look at which fish we have and where to find them.
Some of our favourite shore fishing spots are Rapid Lake Trestle, the Whitney Trestle, and the dam in Whitney. In Madawaska, check out the Madawaska River and the Madawaska Trestle Bridge. We also have an ice fishing derby at Bark Lake on Family Day for those with a thirst for friendly competition!
5. Wildlife viewing
These woods are home to moose, bear, deer, wolves, coyotes, birds, and dozens more - but spotting them? That’s a bit of a game of chance.
Your best bet is around dawn or dusk, especially in spring when moose linger roadside to lick the salty runoff. Watch marshes, scan the trees, and don’t overlook subtle signs - footprints, scratch marks, scat - all quiet proof that you're not alone.
Springtime at Bark Lake offers another window to catch animals sipping from the shoreline. And in winter, bring a handful of Niger seed to the Opeongo Road chickadee stop - yes, they’ll land right in your hand.
The wildlife here is breathtaking, unpredictable, and totally real. So keep your camera ready, your distance safe, and let nature do its thing.
Winter activities in South Algonquin
6. Winter Festivities
Join us on Family Day for our annual winter festivities! We like to change things up a little bit every year to keep things fresh and to include new businesses, but the Family Day weekend often involves a fishing derby, skating, a community fish fry, and tobogganing races! Watch our website for more information.
7. Skating
Pack some skates and head out onto the ice while you’re warming your soul with a winter visit to beautiful South Algonquin. You can find information on public skating or attending events at Madawaska Recreation Centre, or the Lester B Smith Recreation Centre in Whitney. Learn more about both at the South Algonquin municipal website under Recreation.
8. Ice climbing
For those eager for action and who love a good adrenaline rush while being surrounded by natural beauty, you might want to consider self-guided ice climbing at McCauley Lake or along Algonquin Park’s Booth trail. South Algonquin is considered one of the most beautiful spots in Ontario for ice climbing, and this is one winter activity the thrill seekers will not want to miss. If you’re not up for the thrill of actually climbing, drive through the highway 60 corridor of Algonquin Park to see the massive ice walls along the roadside.
Fall, summer and spring activities in South Algonquin
8. Family playgrounds
If you’re traveling with a family, it can be hard to keep the kids engaged. Let them explore our playgrounds at RR Booth Park and Tom & Mick Murray Park to get them pumped for a day of wilderness adventure in the mornings, and/or tired enough to fall asleep fast in the evenings!
9. Boating, canoeing & swimming
The ice leaves our lakes by the end of April or the early days of May, leaving our rivers and lakes open to enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. We’re surrounded by beautiful beaches for you and your family to enjoy!
Boat launches can be found at Galeairy Lake, Hay Lake, Bark Lake, and Aylen Lake. Take a look at our canoe routes to help you plan your trip around all the sights you don’t want to miss – for example, some of our waterfalls are only accessible by canoe & kayak!
10. Algonquin Park access points
You can access Algonquin Park at several points within the South Algonquin borders by canoe, (see below) or at either of the two gates on Highway 60. Water access is available via: Galeairy Lake Access Point 13, Hay Lake Access Point 16, Shall Lake Access Point 17, Aylen Lake Access Point 18. Save the parking pass entry fee and enjoy your day in Algonquin Park!
11. Provincial park access
Did you know that we have two other provincial parks that lie within the boundaries of our township? Upper Madawaska Provincial Park and Opeongo River Provincial Park are also beautiful locations worth visiting during your stay. These parks are water access only, so you’ll want to plan for a canoe trip out of Algonquin Park and down these rivers.
For the curiosity seekers year-round
12. Wild Company workshops and nature experiences
Tucked into the edge of Algonquin Park, Wild Company is South Algonquin’s nature-inspired hub for curious souls of all ages. Whether you're drawn to stargazing under crystal-clear skies, creating art from the forest floor, or learning how to cook over an open flame, WildCo offers year-round workshops, events, and experiences designed to reconnect you to nature—and yourself. Indoors and out, this is your invitation to explore, create, and grow in every season. Come with questions. Leave with stories.
Related: Explore Wild Company experiences.
Bonus activities in South Algonquin
Chokecherry Season
Come visit us in mid-August when the chokecherries are abundant for your picking pleasure. Chokecherries, part of the stone fruit family (like plums and cherries), are plentiful in South Algonquin and grow wild around the township.They’re way too bitter to eat raw, but make the most wonderful jelly and fruit leather.
Hunting Season
Through October and November you can access hunting trails around South Algonquin. Prepare to settle yourselves in for a peaceful wait for game in these quiet woods teeming with wildlife.
Explore our website and follow our socials for more places to stay, things to do, discounts, giveaways, and experiences!
댓글