Take a brief, half-day break from fishing, ATVing, and canoeing with a family fall hiking adventure near Elk Lake Wilderness Resort. With summer officially in the rearview mirror, it’s time to start thinking about a fall getaway to the colourful Ontario wilderness. Our waterfront Elk Lake resort rests on the stunning shores of the Montreal River, home to a large population of northern pike, bass, and walleye. Every autumn, Mother Nature paints the vast Northeastern Ontario wilderness a delightful mixture of kelly green, sunrise orange, and bumblebee yellow. Take a brisk stroll through the vast crown land and old logging roads near the resort, which steer hikers to beautiful back lakes for a relaxing day trip. Remember to ask our friendly staff about these secret gems! You can also branch out with an afternoon hike at one of these colourful parks, all within one hour of our Elk Lake resort.
Kap-Kig-Iwan Provincial Park
Kap-Kig-Iwan Provincial Park has three distinct hiking trails that meander near the scenic Englehart River. This tranquil park rests three kilometers south of Englehart. The 38-minute serene forest journey from Elk Lake Wilderness Resort to Kap-Kig-Iwan is picture-perfect on a sunny fall morning. Most hikers visit Kap-Kig-Iwan for the breathtaking waterfall on the Englehart River, but the 4.5-kilometer Cedar Trail is the adventure of choice in the fall. The Cedar Trail bends through the lush forest on its way to many valley overlooks. The golden poplars and orange beeches stand-out in comparison to the emerald pines. Kap-Kig-Iwan is home to many pretty regional birds such as chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers.
Pete’s Dam Park
Before arriving at Devil’s Rock, stop for a riverwalk and picnic at peaceful Pete’s Dam Park, west of Temiskaming Shores. Pete’s Dam was built in the early 1900s on the Wabi River to provide power to the town of New Liskeard. Within 10-15 years, the power plant was shut down. It’s now the site of Pete’s Dam Park. Chester Falls have been restored, and the downriver rapids can be traversed by foot because the flow is downtempo and the shale rock creates a stair-like terrain. There is a short half-mile loop that circles the falls as well as two longer trails filled with colourful forestry. Pack a picnic and enjoy the gorgeous colours from the river’s edge!
Devil’s Rock Hiking Trail
After a rejuvenating hike and picnic at Pete’s Dam Park, drive south to the Devil’s Rock Hiking Trail. Devil’s Rock is an overlook that peers out onto Lake Timiskaming, the Quebec border, and the Isle of Man. For those looking for an adventure, begin the hike at the trailhead and walk the stunning cliffside. Tourists can also start from Bucke Park for a small vehicle fee. Regardless of which direction you look, Devil’s Rock is a genuinely breathtaking experience during autumn’s peak. The cliff face is over 300 feet above the lake, so please be careful if you’re bringing children or pets!
Beautiful Elk Lake Resort
After a rejuvenating, picturesque afternoon of hiking, head back to your cozy cabin for a jam-packed evening of delicious food, relaxation, and stargazing. We offer a delicious meal plan on site! After devouring a homemade dinner at the Elk Lake Wilderness Kitchen, throw a line into the Montreal River to reel in a giant northern pike. Finish each evening with a bonfire, complete with stargazing, marshmallows, and ghost stories. Dial 1-705-679‑4041 to reserve a pet-friendly cabin near the scenic Montreal River or visit ElkLakeWilderness.com.