Type of hike: Interior Backcountry Day Hike Looped
Difficulty: Moderately Demanding
Time: 2 to 4 hours
Distance: 8 kms / 5 miles
Ups and downs, lookouts with views of Lake Superior and Orphan Lake from above and from the shores, cobble beach, and the Baldhead River – this trail is a great mix of an interior forest trail hike with a bit of the coast. The first lookout is only a 20 minute hike so, if you don`t have a lot of time to spend hiking this is a great trail to get out, stretch your legs and see a little of the park.
This is a fantastic hike! The Orphan Lake Trail has a little bit of everything. Begin your hike at the Orphan Lake Parking Lot. The trail starts out on a very shaded path and at about 15 minutes in you will come to a sign that says "Hikers Go Left" - take this route, and the path will lead you to the Orphan Lake Lookout. From here you can see Orphan Lake, the rolling hills of Algoma, and Lake Superior beyond.
The trail, then leads down to the level of Orphan Lake. You will come to a spot on the south-west side of Orphan Lake, where, as a result of a forest fire new trees have sprouted up and berries are abundant during the summer. There is another lookout here. Climb up the hill for a panoramic 180 degree view of Lake Superior; you can see the mouth of the Baldhead River on your right, to your front Leech and the Lizard Islands, and to your left, the north side of the Baldhead Mountain. On a clear day you might also be able to see Montreal Island.
Climb down from the lookout and get back on the trial to descend to lake level, walk along the shore of Lake Superior and then follow the trail from the mouth of the Baldhead River along its banks to arrive the at a set of footbridges. If you go across, it is about 15 minutes to the north side of the mouth of the Baldhead River where there are five campsites. If you do not cross over the river, continue along the south bank of the river. About 15 minutes from here there is another scenic stop - if you go down to your left you will come to view the Baldhead River and a set of falls. Get back up on the trail, and you are headed towards the finish. From here, the trail presents some ascents and descents - you'll definitely work up a sweat. The trail again follows along the river for a while, and eventually comes to visit the north-west tip of Orphan Lake and then winds along its shore, behind the tree line where there is plenty of shade. Once you are past the lake, the trail heads north-east through a forested area leading back to the parking lot.
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.