The best walks and hikes around Unorganized North Sudbury
5.0
(3)
54
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking trails around Unorganized North Sudbury traverse a vast wilderness characterized by Canadian Shield topography, featuring rugged rock formations, rocky valleys, and dense, regreened forests. The region is dotted with numerous lakes and rivers, including Onaping Lake and the Onaping River, which contribute to the diverse terrain. Hikers can expect varied elevations, with the landscape shaped by ancient geology and extensive environmental recovery efforts.
Best hiking trails around Unorganized North Sudbury
- The most popular hiking route is A.Y. Jackson Lookout…
Last updated: September 28, 2026
17
hikers
2.39km
00:45
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
14.9km
03:59
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
4.28km
01:24
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Unorganized North Sudbury
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Tips from the Community
Kidney Lake is a small body of water that drains into Kakakise Lake to the south at high water levels. The Crack Trail passes nearby the lake; however, it is not accessible and is not visible due to the dense forest. Only when you stand at the top of The Crack and look back can you clearly see Kidney Lake. (Visited June 7, 2026)
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The Kakakise Lake is an approximately 4-kilometer-long lake in the La Cloche Mountain Range at an altitude of about 200 meters. The name Kakakise Lake comes from the indigenous Anishinaabe/Ojibwe language and means, in translation: mischievous old crow. The Crack Trail crosses the outflow of Kakakise Lake on a wooden boardwalk, which was built over a beaver dam. The dam, together with the boardwalk, dams up the lake to such an extent that only a "trickle" flows through, leaving the streambed of Kakakise Creek more or less dry. The water flows west through Freeland Lake and George Lake, eventually flowing into Georgian Bay as the Chikanishing River. (Visit on June 7, 2026)
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The view from The Crack, a white quartzite rock, is stunningly beautiful. The scenery stretches across the La Cloche Mountain Range and several lakes, to the west the crystal-blue Killarney Lake in the foreground and O.S.A. Lake in the background, and in the distance to the south, Georgian Bay in Lake Huron. By the way, O.S.A. stands for Ontario Society of Artists; Trout Lake was renamed in 1933 to honor the group for their conservation efforts. To the east and south, dense forests stretch out with maple trees, birches, and conifers. The narrow Kakakise Lake cannot be seen from The Crack. (Visit on June 7, 2026)
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On the last few meters of altitude, the path runs steeply uphill through the gorge between two massive quartzite rocks. You climb upwards over large, angular rocks; this should pose no problem for experienced hikers. (Visit on June 7, 2026)
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Before the final ascent to The Crack, the route leads with a slight incline over a rock plateau with partially smoothly polished quartzite rock. To avoid going off the route, you should pay particular attention to the trail markers, blue wooden stakes. Stone men are probably well-intentioned, but not always helpful.
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Echo Pond is located north of Raven Lake and is connected to it by a wide body of water. All three trails, Mouse Ridge, Eco Pond, and Hawk Ridge, partially run past the lake. From the forest parking lot at Halfway Lake Campingplatz, the lake is about 500 meters away. (Visit on June 5, 2026)
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The Hawk Ridge Trail is a challenging circular hiking trail of approximately 15 kilometers. The path leads through a dense boreal coniferous forest and over polished rocks with numerous short ascents and descents; several wet or swampy sections must be overcome. At the end of July 2002, the area of Halfway Lake Provincial Park was devastated by a tornado; the Hawk Ridge Trail was also affected. On our hike on June 5, 2026, we can no longer see any obvious traces of the severe storm. https://highwaysandhailstones.com/tornado/july-24-2002-halfway-lake-provincial-park/
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The Halfway Lake Provincial Park is located in the Sudbury region, which was hit by a massive meteorite 1.85 billion years ago, creating a crater approximately 200 kilometers in diameter. Over millions of years, the region has been altered by erosion and ice ages and is known as the Canadian Shield, a vast expanse of exposed bedrock and shallow surface soils. Water and glacial ice have shaped the landscape into hills, valleys, lakes, and rivers. Source: https://blog.ontarioparks.ca/visit-halfway/ (Visit on June 5, 2026)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Unorganized North Sudbury?
Hikers in Unorganized North Sudbury will encounter a rugged and diverse landscape shaped by the Canadian Shield. This includes ancient rock formations, rocky valleys, and dense, recovering forests. The region is also dotted with countless lakes and rivers, offering scenic views and varied elevations. It's a testament to significant environmental regreening efforts.
Are there any notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking?
Yes, the region boasts several striking natural features. You can visit the picturesque Onaping River, which features rapids and the beautiful Onaping High Falls. The A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail loop offers excellent vantage points to admire these falls. Additionally, you might catch views of Kakakise Lake and the white quartzite mountains of the Killarney range.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Unorganized North Sudbury?
The trails in Unorganized North Sudbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the region's rugged Canadian Shield landscapes, pristine lakes and rivers, and vast, recovering forests, which provide an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor activities.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options available?
Yes, there are options suitable for families and those seeking easier walks. The A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail loop is a relatively short and easy 1-kilometer circular trail. Within Killarney Provincial Park, the Granite Ridge Trail is a moderate 2.7 km loop, and the Raven Lake loop from Halfway Lake Store is another easy option.
Can I find trails with waterfalls in Unorganized North Sudbury?
Absolutely. The Onaping High Falls are a prominent feature in the region, known for their picturesque series of waterfalls. The A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail loop provides an excellent opportunity to view these falls.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, several circular routes are available. The A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail loop is a popular short circular option. For a longer moderate hike, consider the Hawk Ridge Trail loop, which winds through varied terrain. The Lake of the Woods loop from Turbid Lake is another circular trail leading through forested areas and alongside lakes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Unorganized North Sudbury?
The region offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. Fall hiking is particularly stunning due to the vibrant autumn colors of the recovering forests. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for exploring the trails and lakes.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
While the listed routes are mostly easy to moderate, the broader region, particularly within Killarney Provincial Park, is home to more challenging ascents like "The Crack," which offers spectacular panoramic views. The View from The Crack loop from Chickamishing River provides an easy entry point to this area.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads in Unorganized North Sudbury?
Unorganized North Sudbury is a vast wilderness area, and public transport options directly to trailheads are generally limited. It is advisable to plan for personal vehicle access or consider local taxi services for reaching specific starting points.
Are there specific parking facilities for hikers?
Many provincial parks and popular trailheads within and bordering Unorganized North Sudbury, such as those in Killarney Provincial Park or near the A.Y. Jackson Lookout, typically offer designated parking areas. It's always recommended to check specific park or trailhead information for parking details and any potential fees before your visit.
Are there any hidden gem hikes or less-known spots worth exploring?
For those seeking more adventurous and secluded experiences, "Paradise Lagoon" is mentioned as a secret swimming hole with waterfalls, though it requires off-road vehicle access. "Merv's Landing" is another moderate loop trail offering unique views and insights into Indigenous history, providing a less-traveled option.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Given the vast, recovering forests and numerous lakes, Unorganized North Sudbury is home to diverse flora and fauna. Hikers might spot various bird species, including raptors like hawks (as suggested by the Hawk Ridge Trail loop name), and potentially larger mammals, though sightings are not guaranteed. Always practice wildlife safety and observe from a distance.
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