Discover the Wilderness of Pukaskwa National Park

Welcome to Pukaskwa National Park, a pristine and rugged landscape where the wilds of nature meet the cultural heritage of the Anishinaabe First Nations. Nestled on the northeast shore of Lake Superior, Pukaskwa (pronounced ‘PUK-a-SAW’) offers an unparalleled experience of solitude and natural beauty. In this series of blog posts, I will guide you through this magnificent park, starting with an overview of its location, nature, and amenities.

July 2022

A Journey to Pukaskwa National Park

​Pukaskwa National Park is a sanctuary of untouched wilderness located in Ontario, Canada. Here, immense waves crash against granite shores under the watchful gaze of ancient spruce and pine forests. The park is not only a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, who might spot black bears feasting on blueberries or moose navigating wetlands, but also a place where one can experience hauntingly beautiful loon calls at sunset and even encounter cheeky ravens swiping unguarded loaves of bread—a little surprise I personally experienced in May 2019!

Hattie Cove Campground Map

Hattie Cove Campground: Your Gateway to Adventure

​For those planning a stay, the Hattie Cove Campground offers the perfect home base. Easily accessible just a short drive from the Trans-Canada Highway, the campground features 67 vehicle-accessible campsites, promising solitude and intimacy with nature. The sites cater to a variety of setups, from tents to RVs, accommodating up to six people per site. The campground operates on a first-come-first-serve basis, with check-in and check-out at 11:00 a.m.

July 2022

July 2022 & May 2019

​My personal experiences camping here have been nothing short of amazing. Spacious and private non-electrical sites, enveloped by the park's natural beauty, provide a tranquil environment and serve as the perfect launching point for exploring adjacent trails. With limited cell service, these sites offer a true back-to-nature experience, encouraging you to disconnect from digital distractions. For added convenience, the campground is well-equipped with essential amenities such as flush toilets, hot showers, and potable water, all located at the aptly named ‘comfort stations’.

July 2022 & May 2019

Trails Awaiting Your Footsteps

​Pukaskwa’s trails offer a variety of experiences, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Here's a categorized list to help you choose your adventure:

Pukaskwa National Park Trails Map

​Fire Walk

• Hattie Cove Fire Walk: This easy 0.7km trail takes you through a fascinating area shaped by a prescribed burn. Witness the resilience of nature as you explore the role of fire in renewing the boreal forest.

August 2017

​Beach Trails

• Boardwalk Beach Trail: Enjoy a leisurely 1.2km stroll on stable gravel surfaces and a 0.2km boardwalk that leads you to Pukaskwa’s famous Horseshoe Bay. Perfect for relaxing and taking in the soothing sounds of rolling waves. 
• Beach Trail: A moderate 2km hike along sandy beaches and driftwood-littered shores. It’s a beautiful way to experience the park’s coastal landscape.

July 2022 & August 2023

Scenic and Challenging

• Southern Headland Trail: Tackle this moderate 2.2km trail and be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Superior's dramatic coastline. The trail features a natural surface enhanced with constructed stairs, offering hikers 15m of elevation gain/loss as they navigate obstacles such as loose rocks and tree roots.

August 2017

Cultural and Spiritual

• Manito Miikana (Spirit Trail): This 2km trail offers not just a hike but a spiritual journey, with panoramic views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for reflection and peace.
• Bimose Kinoomagewnan (Walk of Teachings): Learn about Ojibway culture and the Seven Grandfather Teachings on this enlightening 3.7km trail. It’s a journey that combines physical exercise with cultural education as you hike around Halfway Lake. 

August 2023

Stay Tuned for More

​This introduction to Pukaskwa National Park merely scratches the surface of what this incredible park has to offer. In upcoming posts, I will provide an in-depth exploration of the Beach, Southern Headland, Manito Miikana, and Bimose Kinoomagewnan trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a family seeking a memorable vacation, or someone in search of meditative solitude, Pukaskwa promises an escape filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and serenity.

July 2022

​Stay tuned, and prepare to explore the wilderness of Pukaskwa National Park!