The Orphan Lake Trail

As the air starts to cool and the leaves begin the much-anticipated transition from their many hues of green to a brighter amber, crimson and auburn, it’s time to hit the trails!

From birding and fishing to canoeing and kayaking, Lake Superior Provincial Park has you covered for several day trip opportunities. Additionally, the Park is a mecca for fall hiking in Algoma Country. It boasts 11 popular trails with a variety of Northern Ontario terrains.

Trail Details

Located 1 hr 50 mins North of Sault Ste. Marie, or 45 mins south of Wawa, the Orphan Lake Trail offers a little bit of everything from cascading waterfalls and panoramic lookouts to rocky shores and pebble beaches. The moderately rated trail is approximately 8 km (2 – 4 hours). We recommend that you bring appropriate footwear, ample water, bug spray and weatherproof gear.

Access to the trailhead begins only a few feet from the maintained gravel parking lot just off Highway 17 North. As you begin the trail, you’re quickly immersed in the dense northern wilderness. One of the reasons the trail brings many visitors to this spot time and time again. As you progress along the marked trail, the terrain, although relatively smooth until this point, quickly begins to incline en route to the first lookout location.

What to Expect

At the top of the incline, you emerge from the dense forest onto a rock ledge. You’re then greeted by a panoramic view of rolling hills in the distance while overlooking Orphan Lake. The lookout is the perfect opportunity to stretch, have a break and snap your next Instagram post before descending back onto the main trail.

Your next stretch of the journey brings you down along the edge of the lake towards the next scenic lookout. As you reach the top of the trail incline, a breathtaking view of the mighty Lake Superior and the Baldhead River awaits! Be sure to rest, hydrate and take in the picturesque view before you descend toward the river.

The Second Half: Pebble Beach and Waterfalls

Reaching the pebble beach marks the halfway point of your adventure. This is also a junction with the Lake Superior Park Coastal Trail. Walk along the beach, take in the fresh air and rest your legs while listening to the sounds of crashing waves along the shoreline. The area also offers ample opportunities for photos and exploring.

Continue and follow the trail upstream along the Baldhead River until you reach a series of cascading waterfalls that looks like a Group of Seven painting come to life. Take this opportunity to take a final break, stretch and of course, hydrate before the final leg of your adventure.

Completing the Loop Back to the Trailhead

The final leg of the trail brings you along the eastern shore of Orphan Lake until you eventually complete the trail loop, joining you back towards the trailhead.

The Lake Superior Provincial Park has no shortage of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Orphan Lake Trail should be at the top of your list!