Type of hike: Interior Backcountry Day Hike, Looped
Difficulty: Moderate - Demanding
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Distance: 5 kms / 3 miles
A superb day hike for those who want a good workout with some of the best views of Lake Superior and is conveniently located near the North end of the park / only a short 20 minute drive from Wawa.
The Nokomis trailhead is located across the highway from the Old Woman Bay day use area. Just inside the treeline is a trail map on a large sign that gives you a brief description and an indication where the lookouts are. Shortly after you begin your hike, there is a break in the trees and you can see the Old Woman River flowing towards you. If you turn around, the river flows under a bridge and makes its way into Old Woman Bay, Lake Superior. At around 20 minutes you will start to ascend, and notice many deposits of rocks where an old lake bed once existed. Stop at the Pukaskwa Pits and read the sign that tells you why they are here. You will soon cross a small foot bridge and continue to ascend. If you stop and look up every once in a while, you will be able to keep track of your progress as you get closer and closer to the tree tops. Looking south-east from the first lookout you will be awe of the expansive landscape. But wait, the best views are yet to come. At around one hour into your hike, you will reach the 2nd lookout. You can see the beach at Old Woman Bay, and the river flowing into Lake Superior - Look to your left again, for a view of amazing green rolling hills in the spring and summer that turn to vibrant oranges and reds in the fall. Hike for about five more minutes and you reach the third lookout - the best view on the Nokomis trail -and one of the best views in the Park. There are two more lookouts within ten minutes from here, and then the trail descends back down to lake level.
At the Old Woman Bay day use area; there are picnic tables, washrooms, and a grand view of the lake.
Note: Times will vary depending on the weather, trail conditions, and physical conditioning. This is only a general scenic guide; refer to your park map available at the Agawa Bay Visitors Centre or Park Office at Red Rock. Check with the park staff for up to date trail conditions.