Years / 2015

Snowshoeing, Killarney Provincial Park

Fri, Jan 16, 2015 · 5:00 PM – Sun, Jan 18 · Killarney Provincial Park

The best way to show off these amazing photos of Killarney Provincial Park last winter is to create another snowshoe trip. So, get out the snowshoes, we're off.

Itinerary:

Friday, Jan. 16, head north after work, the sooner the better. Its a long drive to Killarney (6 hrs, 477 km).

There are two options for Friday night, car camping at George Lake campground in the park, or finding a motel on the way up. Last year 2.0 made it to George Lake. 1.0 used an affordable motel in Parry Sound ($65 range). Which option you choose is up to you.

Saturday, continue to Killarney Provincial Park's office at George Lake, they open at 8:30 am. Pick up permits and head to the side trail for "The Crack" off of Hwy 637. By 9:30 start snowshoeing on this connector trail to the Silhouette Trail. Setup camp again on the cliff overlooking Killarney Lake.

(photo no longer available on Meetup)

(2.0 crew from last year)

From there make up a day hike. Bushwack down to Killarney Lake and conditions permitting cross it, then climb up the other shore. Or, bushwack down to Killarney Lake on the west side of the cliff and try to climb up the east side, tempting. Either way bring your telephoto lens to take photos of our little camp from across the way. Then we'll have awesome photos to show off next winter.

Sunday, Jan. 17, Pack up and return via descending to Killarney Lake and take the lake to the canoe portage back to the connector trail (ice conditions permitting).

Cost:

$50 shared gas + $30 shared Friday motel + $12 park permit = $92

Actual costs will vary by people per car, or whether car camping Friday. None of this is paid to the 'event host' up front.

Difficulty:

Like all backcountry activity with heavier winter backpacks, a reasonable fitness level is required. The hike to where we camp is only 4 km but has steep climbs. Whether to continue from there on a day hike is optional.

Gear:

You'll absolutely need snowshoes. 'Technical' ones such as MSR Evo's are highly recommended. Hiking poles are a huge help on steeper sections of the trail. Some kind of day pack if hiking after setting up camp.

The usual winter camping stuff. Please ask for details if uncertain.

Snowshoe Rentals:

Adventure Guide, Waterloo, 519-886-3121. If from Kitchener-Waterloo, this is your best option. They have the MSR's mentioned above and it is easier to return them Monday.

Mountain Equipment Co-op, Barrie. They close too early for returning rentals Sunday.

The park rents them but they are the non-technical type, not recommended.

Inspiration: