Get ready for a real backcountry adventure. We are tackling 55 km of Algonquin's Western Uplands Trail! We’ll move at a comfortable pace through rolling forest trails, stop for plenty of breaks (and snacks!), and camp beside quiet lakes each night. This trip is best for those with previous backcountry experience who are looking for the safety of company.
Cancellations made 30+ days in advance of the departure are fully refundable, minus a 5% administrative and Square processing fee. Cancellations made outside of the 30-day window are non-refundable. However, all trips are transferable to another qualified woman aged 18 or older prior to pre-trip virtual information session.
A minimum of 3 participants are required to run this trip. Registrants will be fully refunded (minus a 5% administrative and Square processing fee) if 2+ people have not registered by the pre-trip information session.
Maximum 1:6 Ratio
Essential gear and backpack fitting; Water treatment and purification; Food preparation and storage; Bear safety and camp set-up; Hands-on gear demonstration
Backcountry camping permit (~$13 pp/day paid to Ontario Parks)
Tarp, stove, kitchen utensils, SOS satellite device/GPS, signalling device, bear spray, camp saw, first aid kit, water purification system, declination compass, physical map, fire starter, rope, soap
Transportation to/from the trailhead
*Optional add-ons. Lightweight tent; Backpack (45-60 L).
*Optional add-on. Vehicle permit and registration for trip length (~$15 pp/day, payable to Onto Parks).
*Optional add-on. Breakfast on days 2 and 3; Lunch on days 1-3 (to be eaten on the trail); Snacks; Dinner on days 1 and 2; Coffee; Tea
📍 Start: West Gate Access
📍 Finish: Maggie Lake
📏 Distance: ~11.5 km
⏳ Time: ~4 hours
10:00 am – Arrive at Western Uplands Trailhead (West Gate Access Point).
11:00 am – Begin hike. The trail features rolling hills, rocky terrain, and dense forest, offering gradual elevation gains. Take a scenic rest stop at Maple Leaf Lake before continuing toward Maggie Lake.
3:00 pm – Arrive at Maggie Lake and enjoy lunch.
4:00 pm – Set up camp and enjoy the clear waters for a swim.
5:00 pm – Learn-to-Camp training provided by SHE Ventures.
6:30 pm – Cook dinner while watching the sunset over Maggie Lake.
8:00 pm – Relax by the fire (if permitted) and play games.
📍 Start: Maggie Lake
📍 Finish: Pincher Lake
📏 Distance: ~15.5 km
⏳ Time: 5-6 hours
7:00 am – Wake up early for sunrise views over Maggie Lake.
8:00 am – Breakfast and pack up camp.
9:30 am – Depart for Pincher Lake, following forested paths and rocky ridges.
1:00 pm – Stop and enjoy lunch at Clara Lake.
4:00 pm – Arrive at Pincher Lake and set up camp.
5:00 pm – Rest, go for a swim, or explore the lake.
6:00 pm – Dinner and socializing.
8:00 pm – Fire (if permitted) and games.
📍 Start: Pincher Lake
📍 Finish: Susan Lake
📏 Distance: ~12.5 km
⏳ Time: 4-5 hours
7:00 am – Early start for breakfast and packing up camp.
9:00 am – Depart for Susan Lake, weaving through hilly terrain and dense forest.
12:00 pm – Enjoy lunch on the trail. The route passes West Otterpaw Lake, small creeks, and marshy lowland
3:00 pm – Arrive at Susan Lake, a secluded backcountry spot with only one active campsite. Set up camp.
4:00 pm – Enjoy a private swim in the lake, relax, or take in the tranquil surroundings.
5:30 pm – Cook dinner and watch thesunset.
7:00 pm – Fire (if permitted) and games.
9:00 pm – Final night in the backcountry, ask SHE Ventures any outstanding questions!
📍 Start: Susan Lake
📍 Finish: West Gate Access
📏 Distance: ~16 km
⏳ Time: 5-6 hours
7:00 am – Wake up early and enjoy your final morning on the lake.
8:00 am – Breakfast and pack up camp.
10:00 am – Begin the final hike back to the West Gate.
The route follows rolling terrain and marshland, making for the longest day aside from Day 2.
1:00 pm – Lunch break at Lake Ramona, a great spot for a rest stop.
5:00 pm – Arrive back at West Gate Access.
Optional: Join your sole sisters in celebrating a well-earned meal in town before heading home.
