Coastal Trail

Location

Mashkinonje Provincial Park, 342 Musky Island Road, south of Lavigne

Trailhead UTM 551129 mE x 5120428 mN
Ownership Ministry of Natural Resources - Ontario Parks

Management

Friends of Mashkinonje and Municipality of French River

Length

4.4 km / 2.7 miles

Difficulty

moderate to difficult

Activities

hiking, snowshoeing

Amenities

parking, lookout, scenic bridge

Surface

moderate, rolling

Rules for Use: 

- no bicycle or motorized use of trails
- pets must be kept on a leash
- removal of natural or historic objects; damage or defacing of property; and litter prohibited under Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act

Safety Considerations:

- the official park status is non-operating and the park is not staffed by Ontario Parks, but it is maintained in partnership with community volunteers
- in the winter time, access roads may not be ploughed
- become familiar with backcountry travel and techniques, safety practices, and ethics
- take appropriate clothing, food, water, navigational aids, and a first aid kit when hiking or paddling
- protection from biting insects is recommended during spring and summer
- the park is the natural habitat for moose, bears, wolves, and bobcats, to name a few, so when hiking, pay attention and watch for wildlife

Maintenance:

- twice a year

Description:

This trail follows bedrock ridges along the coast of Lake Nipissing, offering beautiful views of the West Arm. The bridge midway along the trail is a perfect spot for a picnic. The trail links to 27.7 km (17.2 miles) of trails networks.

Directions: 

From the HWY 11/17 junction near Seymour Street, take HWY 17 northwest for 44 km (27.3 miles).  Turn left at Lavac Road, left again at Beaudry Road, and right at LeClair Road for 6 km (3.7 miles).  Turn left onto HWY 64, and travel for 25 km (15.5 miles) until Mashkinonje Provincial Park appears on your right.