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🏕 A Perfect Weekend Loop to Queer Lake
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Hello Reader! Now that the camping season has slowed and I have more time on my hands again, I'll go back to sharing my semi-regular dose of outdoor adventure (a mix of destination spotlights and trip reports, planning tips and outdoor education). This report is brought to you by Isaiah (Canoes Camping Cocktails on Instagram) and is a classic weekend route in Algonquin Provincial Park. Short-ish distance, good rest day exploration and surprising solitude and wildlife potential, given its distance from the access point.
Algonquin: Magnetawan to Queer LakeQuick Facts 🛶 25 km over 3 days Looking for a beginner-friendly weekend loop that still delivers on solitude and scenery? This 3-day route from Magnetawan Access to Queer Lake checks all the boxes. Isaiah has done this route multiple times and keeps coming back—Queer Lake might just be his favourite place to camp in the entire park. The portages are short and manageable, the lakes are beautiful, and wildlife sightings (especially moose) are practically guaranteed. With just enough effort to feel like you’ve earned your backcountry dinner, it’s an ideal loop for first-timers and returning paddlers alike.
"I have done this route several times, and I never get tired of it. It is the perfect distance for a weekend trip to get removed from the busier access areas and Queer Lake campsites are decently spaced apart so you can get some feelings of seclusion. The portages aren’t too long or hard, so you can bring a couple more luxury items to bring more comfort to the campsite. I have also always seen a Moose on Queer Lake as there are several marshy areas they like to graze at during the summer. We were also blessed with great weather, making this trip ideal!" A full rest day on Queer Lake gives you time to explore a waterfall, catch a sunrise paddle, and (if you’re lucky) snag the coveted cliff-jump campsite for an afternoon swim. Add in steak dinners and sunset moose sightings, and it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a weekend. Trip Highlights
What makes the perfect weekend camping trip for you? Happy adventuring, my friend! Mikaela
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Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper
A Canadian in California giving you the skills to get outside. Sign up for gear, trip reports, how-to guides and all things canoeing, kayaking, backpacking and outdoor adventure travel!
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