Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park

Hiking And Camping In The Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park

A 2 Day Hike Into Sheldon Lake On The Ganaraska Hiking Trail

Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park - On a crisp spring morning, I set out with my children on an unforgettable adventure through Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park. Initially, we gathered our gear in the Devils Lake parking area, ensuring we had maps, compasses, and enough supplies for the challenging hike ahead. Then, with excitement bubbling inside us, we stepped onto the Ganaraska Hiking Trail, eager to immerse ourselves in the wilderness.

Dense Forest And Rocks Surround Us in the Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park

As we trekked deeper into the park, the dense forest surrounded us, and the sound of rustling leaves filled the air. Meanwhile, the rugged terrain tested our endurance, with steep inclines and winding paths demanding our full attention. Nevertheless, we pressed on, inspired by the breathtaking rock barrens and serene wetlands that made the effort worthwhile.

The Fork In The Trail Queens Corridor Junction

After several kilometres, we reached a fork in the trail. At this point, we consulted our map and decided to take the path leading toward Sheldon Lake. Consequently, the hike became even more demanding, with uneven ground and hidden roots challenging our footing. Even so, we supported each other, pausing occasionally to catch our breath and appreciate the untouched beauty around us.

As We Approched Sheldon Lake Our Spirits Lifted

Soon, the shimmering waters of Sheldon Lake came into view. At last, we had reached our destination! Instantly, a sense of accomplishment washed over me as we took in the peaceful scene before us. we set up camp in a designated camp site, enjoying a well-earned break. Furthermore, we marvelled at the reflections of the towering trees on the lake's surface, feeling truly connected to nature.

The night was still and silent until the bull frogs awoke so loud that it felt like they were right on top of us. A beautiful musical chorus sung by nature. And then it was morning just as quick as it was night.

Eventually, the time came to begin our journey back. Although our legs ached from the hike, our spirits remained high. Ultimately, we left with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the wild beauty of Ontario. Without a doubt, Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park had given us an adventure we would cherish forever.

Hiking With A Group For Hike Haliburton Festival 2025

On Saturday February 1st I had the great privilege to go on a hike with a group for Hike Haliburton Festival 2025 which included 2 hiking leaders from the Ganaraska Hiking Trail membership. I cannot say how grateful I am for these people who care and look after the trails and take time out of their busy lives to organize these hikes for Hike Haliburton and to educate people along the way on trash in trash out, how to follow blazes and what to do in emergencies. We have allot of new visitors in Ontario and it is key to educate these people so we can all enjoy the trail together and keep them safe and clean from human waste and garbage. More and more people are using the trails every year both old visitors to the province and new and it is more important now then it ever was to have these great supporters of hiking trails across Ontario donating their time looking after and maintaining  the trails for us to use.

Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park In Ontario Canada

Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park spans 33,505 hectares and boasts over 100 different habitat types. It's celebrated for its rock barrens and beaver fens, serving as a crucial ecological hub. Despite its vastness, this ecosystem is delicate, so visitors are urged to adhere to leave-no-trace principles.

As a non-operating park, Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands lacks maintained public facilities or services. Visitors must be prepared for navigating the interior beyond access points, which demands advanced route finding and safety skills in a remote semi-wilderness setting. Due to the terrain, relying on cellular service for communication or navigation is unreliable.

This park offers a distinctive opportunity for sustainable, semi-wilderness recreation. It features challenging canoe routes through lakes, wetlands, and portages, as well as over 100 km of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail in its Wilderness Section. Additionally, there are a limited number of backcountry campsites available for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

In my lifetime I have visited so many beautiful Ontario provincial Parks from Killbear to Sleeping Giant in Thunder Bay to the Bruce Peninsula and of coarse who could forget Algonquin Park. But the Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park will always be a special place in my heart. We are so blessed with beauty captured and preserved by our Provincial Parks and I am grateful for all the people involved in helping and working to create and maintain the best park system in the world

   Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park

Ontario Provincial Parks Canada