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Killarney Provincial Park: Ontario's Jewel

Discover Killarney Provincial Park: Hike, canoe, and camp amidst stunning quartzite ridges and sapphire lakes in Ontario's wilderness on Georgian Bay.

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Killarney Provincial Park, a wilderness haven on Georgian Bay, boasts stunning white quartzite ridges, sapphire lakes, and diverse forests. Preserved by the Group of Seven artists, it offers exceptional hiking, canoeing, and camping experiences in a ruggedly beautiful landscape.

A brief summary to Killarney Provincial Park

Local tips

  • Reservations for camping and backcountry permits are essential, especially during peak season.
  • Pack sturdy footwear, a map, and a compass for hiking, as trails are rocky and uneven.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.
  • Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
  • Visit the Friends of Killarney Park's outpost shops for maps, guides, and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Killarney Provincial Park is located on Highway 637, approximately 100 km south of Sudbury. From Sudbury, follow Highway 69 south and then Highway 637 west to reach the park entrance. Parking is available at the George Lake Campground and other access points. A valid park permit is required and must be displayed in your vehicle. Parking fees are included in the daily vehicle permit. During peak season, parking can be limited, especially at popular trailheads like The Crack and Chikanishing. Consider arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours. There are two outpost shops operated by the Friends of Killarney, located at the park entrance and Bell Lake access point, where you can find maps, trail guides, and souvenirs. Note: Highway 637 connects the town of Killarney to the Trans-Canada Highway. The park is about a 4.5-hour drive from Toronto via ON-400 North and ON-69.

  • Public Transport

    While Killarney Provincial Park is best accessed by car, Parkbus offers limited services from Toronto to several parks, including Killarney. Check the Parkbus website for schedules and availability. From the Parkbus drop-off point, you may need to arrange local transportation to reach specific trailheads or the George Lake Campground. Note: Public transportation options within the park are limited. Consider booking with Killarney Outfitters for canoe rentals and transportation.

Unlock the Best of Killarney Provincial Park

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Discover more about Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park, established in 1964, protects a significant portion of the Georgian Bay shoreline and La Cloche Mountain range. The park's stunning landscape, characterized by white quartzite ridges, clear sapphire lakes, and lush forests, has long captivated artists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park owes its existence, in part, to the Group of Seven artists, who were inspired by the area's beauty and successfully lobbied the government to preserve it. A.Y. Jackson was particularly instrumental in saving Trout Lake from logging, now known as O.S.A. Lake. Today, Killarney stands as a testament to their vision, offering visitors a chance to experience a largely undeveloped natural landscape. Killarney is a wilderness park, with limited facilities to preserve its pristine environment. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. The La Cloche Silhouette Trail, an 80 km loop, is a challenging backpacking route that showcases the park's rugged terrain. Numerous canoe routes connect the park's many lakes, providing opportunities for both short trips and multi-day adventures. While the park's natural beauty is undeniable, it has faced environmental challenges. Acid rain from industrial pollution damaged many of the park's lakes in the past, but improved emission standards have led to a significant recovery. Today, Killarney Provincial Park remains a treasured destination for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience.

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